Production Engineer
Production Engineer
Location: Auburn, AL
Salary: $65,000 – $75,000
Workstyle: On-site | 1st or 2nd Shift | Non-Exempt
Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, 401(k), and comprehensive benefits package
Position Overview
A growing automotive manufacturing operation is seeking a Production Engineer to support manufacturing and engineering teams with process optimization, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role focuses on injection molding operations, automation systems, and robotics, with a strong emphasis on hands-on problem solving on the production floor.
The position is highly practical and collaborative, with approximately 70% of time spent on the manufacturing floor (Gemba) observing processes, collecting data, and implementing improvements. Working closely with quality, maintenance, and production teams, the Production Engineer will help improve efficiency, reduce waste, and maintain high-quality standards.
This role is ideal for early-career engineers or professionals with injection molding experience who enjoy working directly with manufacturing processes and equipment.
Key Responsibilities
- Support production operations by troubleshooting manufacturing processes, equipment, and automation systems.
- Analyze production issues and perform root cause analysis to resolve quality or efficiency problems.
- Apply continuous improvement methodologies such as PDCA, Lean, and Six Sigma to optimize manufacturing performance.
- Ensure compliance with ISO9001 and IATF16949 quality standards.
- Design and improve production processes to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and maintain safety.
- Assist with automation systems, robotics, and material handling equipment used in injection molding operations.
- Conduct plant trials and testing to validate process improvements.
- Develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) and process documentation.
- Collaborate closely with quality, maintenance, and production teams to address manufacturing challenges.
- Support layout planning and equipment integration for process changes or new production initiatives.
- Promote a culture of safety, teamwork, and operational excellence on the manufacturing floor.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical field, or equivalent manufacturing experience.
- Experience in plastic injection molding manufacturing environments preferred.
- Familiarity with PLC systems, CAD/CAM, automation, or robotics.
- Understanding of quality systems such as ISO9001 and IATF16949.
- Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Preferred Skills
- Experience with injection molding process parameters and mold setup.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.
- Experience performing process improvement and production optimization.
- Strong data analysis and documentation skills.
Work Environment
- Majority of work is hands-on in a manufacturing environment, spending significant time on the production floor.
- Regular standing, walking, and interaction with production equipment.
- Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds.
- Exposure to industrial equipment, machinery, and manufacturing processes. PPE is provided and required as appropriate.
To apply, please send your resume to latanaka@pasona.com