Industrial Engineer Manager

The Industrial Engineering Manager leads and oversees the optimization of manufacturing processes, ensuring maximum efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. This role involves managing a team of engineers to analyze production workflows, implement lean manufacturing principles, and develop innovative solutions to enhance operational performance. The manager collaborates cross-functionally with departments such as production, maintenance, and supply chain to identify improvement opportunities and ensure seamless operations. Key responsibilities include project management, process design, capacity planning, and driving initiatives for continuous improvement.

Strong leadership, problem-solving, and data-driven decision-making skills are essential, along with a deep understanding of manufacturing systems, time studies, and process simulations. Your expertise in key IE competencies, such as Process Optimization, Systems Thinking, and Data Analysis and Problem-Solving, will be crucial for success in this role. Additionally, you will be expected to review standard systems and propose necessary upgrades. The role requires a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering or a related field and significant experience in industrial or manufacturing engineering, preferably in a managerial capacity.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage and lead a team of up to six industrial engineers.
• Oversee capacity management (headcount), ensuring optimal use of resources and equipment.
• Develop and implement standard work procedures to enhance productivity and quality.
• Conduct process optimization initiatives to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
• Utilize systems thinking to design and improve complex manufacturing systems.
• Perform data analysis and problem-solving to identify and address operational challenges.
• Review and suggest upgrades to standard systems and processes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Continuous Improvement and Supply Chain, to drive overall plant performance.
• Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and identify areas for improvement.
• Collaborate closely with Senior Financial Analyst, during the Annual Business Plan and the 5-year strategic plan.
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.

QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field (master’s degree optional but a plus).

Professional Experience

• 7 years of industrial or manufacturing engineering experience.
• 3 years of experience in a leadership or managerial role, overseeing engineering teams.
• 3 years of experience overseeing capacity planning and headcount management.
• Extensive knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement initiatives.

Employee Development and Transition

Ability to develop structured pathways for transitioning employees from hourly to salaried positions, including creating individualized career development plans, providing mentorship, and offering opportunities for skill enhancement.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in manufacturing process design, time studies, and workflow optimization.
• Strong knowledge of statistical analysis, process simulation, and capacity planning.
• Familiarity with ERP systems, CAD software, and other engineering tools (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar.
• Understanding of supply chain processes, production scheduling, and materials management.

Certifications

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification (optional but preferred)
• PMP (Project Management Professional) certification (optional but preferred)

Leadership and Communication

• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and mentor engineering staff.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and project management skills.
• Strong communication skills to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Abilities

• Ability to analyze data to identify trends and develop actionable insights
• Experience implementing cost reduction initiatives and improving production efficiency.

Industry Knowledge

• Familiarity with safety standards, regulatory compliance, and quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001, OSHA).
• Knowledge of current manufacturing trends, such as Industry 4.0, automation, and digital transformation.

Soft Skills

• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines.
• Adaptability to evolving priorities in a fast-paced environment.