In-Process Engineer (Automotive Division)

Position Overview: We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented In-Process Engineer to join our Automotive Division. The In-Process Engineer will be responsible for overseeing and optimizing manufacturing processes, ensuring quality standards, and identifying improvements in the production line. This role involves close collaboration with the production, quality control, and engineering teams to monitor and enhance the efficiency, reliability, and safety of automotive manufacturing processes.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Process Monitoring & Optimization: Monitor and analyze manufacturing processes to ensure they are running efficiently and in line with production targets. Identify areas of improvement within existing processes to increase production efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality.
   Implement and support process optimization techniques, such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen, to improve overall process performance.
   
2. Quality Control & Assurance:Work closely with the quality control team to ensure product quality meets customer specifications and industry standards.
   Develop, implement, and monitor in-process quality control methods to identify defects or variations during production.
   Perform in-process inspections and tests, ensuring that the products conform to established specifications.
   Investigate and resolve quality issues in real time, collaborating with relevant teams to implement corrective actions.
   
3. Troubleshooting & Problem Solving: Provide on-the-floor support for troubleshooting any process-related issues that arise during production.
   Analyze and solve production problems related to materials, machinery, or methods that could affect manufacturing efficiency or product quality.
   Investigate root causes of production delays or failures and implement corrective and preventive measures.
   
4. Process Documentation & Reporting: Maintain up-to-date documentation for all processes, work instructions, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
   Prepare detailed reports on process performance, improvements, and any changes to existing procedures.
   Compile and analyze data to report on manufacturing efficiency, downtime, scrap rates, and other performance metrics.
   
5. Collaboration & Cross-functional Support: Collaborate with the production, engineering, and maintenance teams to ensure smooth operation and continual improvement of the production processes.
   Act as a liaison between departments, ensuring that in-process issues are addressed promptly and effectively.
   Assist in the design and layout of new or modified production lines, ensuring ease of integration with existing processes.
   
6. Training & Development: Provide training and guidance to production operators and team members on best practices for process efficiency and quality standards.
   Conduct continuous improvement workshops for production teams, focusing on process optimization and quality enhancement.
   Support the onboarding of new employees and train them on in-process engineering standards and procedures.
   
7. Safety & Compliance: Ensure that all processes comply with safety regulations and best practices.
   Participate in safety audits, risk assessments, and hazard identification to improve the safety of manufacturing operations.
   Promote a culture of safety, ensuring that workers adhere to safety protocols and report any safety hazards or concerns.
   
8. Continuous Improvement & Innovation: Stay up to date with the latest advancements in automotive manufacturing technologies, process improvements, and industry trends.
   Evaluate new production techniques, tools, and equipment to improve efficiency and product quality.
   Drive initiatives aimed at reducing costs, increasing throughput, and enhancing product reliability.
   

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field (preferred).
• Proven experience in process engineering, preferably in an automotive or manufacturing environment (2+ years).
• Strong knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes, including assembly, welding, painting, and injection molding.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other process improvement methodologies.
• Experience in using process optimization tools and techniques (e.g., FMEA, SPC, control charts).
• Proficiency with process monitoring and control software (e.g., MES, ERP systems).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify root causes and implement solutions.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to interact effectively across departments.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.

Preferred Skills:

• Certification in Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing (Green Belt, Black Belt).
• Experience in automotive parts production or assembly.
• Proficiency with CAD software and other engineering tools for process design.