Job Title: Manufacturing Process Engineer
Job Description
This role focuses on analyzing and improving the manufacturing processes for windshield wiper systems in a predominantly manual assembly environment. You will evaluate existing, antiquated processes, identify opportunities for improvement, and implement practical, sustainable solutions that enhance efficiency, quality, safety, and material flow. The position requires a hands-on engineer who enjoys spending time on the production floor, collaborating with production associates, and translating observations into clear standards and improved workflows.
Responsibilities
Assess current manufacturing processes for windshield wiper systems and identify opportunities for improvement in efficiency, quality, and safety.
Work extensively on the production floor to observe operations, investigate issues faced by production associates, and gather data on process performance.
Develop and implement process improvements using lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
Design and optimize floor and cell layouts to improve workflow, ergonomics, and material handling.
Create clear and detailed work instructions and standardized work documents to ensure consistent assembly processes.
Define and refine process and material flow to minimize waste, reduce cycle times, and improve throughput.
Collaborate with production, engineering, and other cross-functional teams to implement changes and ensure successful adoption of new processes.
Use manufacturing engineering principles and, where applicable, Six Sigma tools to analyze root causes of process issues and validate improvements.
Monitor the impact of implemented changes and adjust processes as needed to sustain and further enhance performance.
Support operator training on new or updated work instructions, standardized work, and layout changes.
Essential Skills
Bachelor's degree in Engineering and 3-5+ years of related engineering experience, or equivalent additional experience in place of a degree.
Proven experience in manufacturing engineering within an assembly manufacturing environment.
Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and demonstrated examples of previous improvement projects.
Hands-on experience with continuous improvement and process improvement initiatives.
Experience creating detailed work instructions and standardized work documentation.
Experience designing and optimizing floor and cell layouts for manufacturing operations.
Experience defining and improving process and material flow in a production setting.
Familiarity with Six Sigma concepts and tools applied to manufacturing processes.
Ability to work directly on the production floor and effectively interact with production associates.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and root-cause analysis skills.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Additional years of relevant manufacturing engineering experience may substitute for a formal engineering degree.
Experience with assembly processes specific to automotive or similar mechanical systems is beneficial.
Ability to document processes clearly and concisely for a wide range of users.
Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
Comfort with data-driven decision-making and use of metrics to track process improvements.
Work Environment
This is a hands-on role based primarily on the production floor in a manufacturing facility. You will spend significant time working directly within assembly areas, observing operations, engaging with production associates, and investigating process issues in real time. The environment involves typical manufacturing conditions, including active production lines, material handling, and equipment operation. Work hours follow standard manufacturing schedules, with the need to be present during production to assess processes and implement improvements. Attire should be appropriate for a shop-floor setting, including any required personal protective equipment in accordance with facility safety guidelines.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Michigan City, IN.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $35.00 - $43.50/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Michigan City,IN.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on May 22, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
