Manufacturing Engineer
Goleta, US, 93117
Role Summary
Manufacturing Engineer
MANN+HUMMEL Water & Fluid Solutions
Location: Goleta, CA
#LI-Onsite
MANN+HUMMEL Water & Fluid Solutions is seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Engineer with a strong background in Process Engineering, Industrial Engineering, and Manufacturing Automation to support manufacturing operations and continuous improvement initiatives within a fast-paced production environment.
This role is heavily focused on process optimization, automation integration, recipe development for automated systems, poka-yoke implementation, equipment/process reliability, and operational excellence. The ideal candidate will have experience improving manufacturing robustness through engineered process controls, automation support, Lean Manufacturing practices, and cross-functional collaboration.
This position requires a highly engaged engineer capable of supporting day-to-day manufacturing operations while also leading process improvements, capital projects, automation initiatives, and safety/quality improvements throughout the facility.
Cross-functional collaboration is considered a cornerstone of manufacturing success within the organization. This role will work closely with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Production Scheduling, EHS, and Leadership teams to drive sustainable operational improvements.
Main Tasks
- Develop, optimize, and sustain manufacturing processes focused on efficiency, quality, ergonomics, and safety.
- Analyze manufacturing flow, bottlenecks, cycle times, labor utilization, and machine performance.
- Conduct time studies, line balancing activities, and capacity analysis.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing principles.
- Develop standardized work instructions, process documentation, and visual management systems.
- Support process validations, DOE activities, PFMEA development, and Control Plans.
- Lead root cause investigations and implement corrective actions for process and quality issues.
- Support automated manufacturing equipment and motion systems including Cartesian systems and automated production equipment.
- Develop, modify, and optimize machine recipes and automated process parameters.
- Implement poka-yoke systems and engineered safeguards to improve safety and product quality.
- Support troubleshooting and optimization of HMIs, sensors, pneumatic systems, and automated processes.
- Assist with commissioning, FAT/SAT execution, startup support, and equipment validation activities.
- Work with integrators, vendors, and Maintenance to improve equipment reliability and process robustness.
- Design fixtures, tooling, machine guards, brackets, and process improvements using SolidWorks.
- Create and maintain technical drawings and manufacturing layouts.
- Support manufacturing-related CAPEX projects and equipment modifications.
- Assist with equipment installation planning, process integration, and startup execution.
- Provide direct floor support to production operations and manufacturing personnel.
- Support TPM initiatives and equipment reliability programs.
- Monitor and improve KPIs related to downtime, labor efficiency, scrap, throughput, and OEE.
- Participate in Kaizen events and operational excellence initiatives.
- Support operator training and process implementation activities.
- Work closely with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Production Scheduling, Procurement, and EHS teams.
- Maintain strong communication and responsiveness while supporting production needs.
- Build positive working relationships with operators, supervisors, technicians, engineers, and vendors.
- Contribute actively to continuous improvement initiatives and problem-solving activities.
- Support a culture of accountability, operational excellence, and teamwork throughout the facility.
Experience
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical discipline.
- Minimum 3 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, process engineering, or industrial engineering within a manufacturing environment.
- Experience supporting automated manufacturing systems and process optimization initiatives.
- Experience developing or modifying machine recipes and automated process parameters.
- Experience implementing poka-yoke and error-proofing systems.
- Proficiency with SolidWorks and mechanical drafting.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
- Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in filtration, converting, membrane manufacturing, or high-volume manufacturing environments.
- Familiarity with PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and industrial automation systems.
- Experience with Cartesian motion systems or automated handling systems.
- Experience supporting FAT/SAT activities and equipment commissioning.
- Knowledge of PFMEA, SPC, TPM, Control Plans, and process validation methodologies.
- Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience.
Preferred Skills
- Hands-on and floor-oriented leadership style.
- Strong mechanical and process intuition.
- Self-driven and capable of managing multiple priorities.
- Strong analytical and troubleshooting mindset.
- Comfortable operating within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Strong sense of ownership and accountability.
Nearest Major Market: Santa Barbara
Nearest Secondary Market: Santa Maria