Job description
NovaLine Industries is seeking a results-driven Industrial Production Engineer to join our Midwest manufacturing team in Chicago, IL. This role is pivotal to delivering safe, efficient, and scalable production operations across multiple lines. As a key member of the Operations team, you will partner with maintenance, quality, and supply chain to optimize throughput, reduce waste, and implement robust processes that support new product introductions and continuous improvement. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and a fast-paced environment that rewards data-driven decision making and collaborative problem solving.
Responsibility
- Lead and execute continuous improvement projects to optimize throughput, cycle times, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
- Develop, document, and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for production lines to ensure consistent quality and safety.
- Analyze production data (OEE, yield, scrap, downtime) and drive root-cause investigations to reduce variability.
- Collaborate with maintenance and engineering to plan preventive maintenance and maximize asset utilization.
- Lead Kaizen events and Lean initiatives to reduce waste and standardize processes across shifts.
- Support new product introductions (NPIs) through process mapping, capacity planning, and line layout optimization.
- Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and environmental standards and participate in internal audits.
- Mentor operators and technicians and support training programs to raise skill levels and performance.
Qualification
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
- 5+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing and production engineering.
- Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma (Green Belt or higher), SPC, and TPM.
- Experience with ERP and MES systems; basic understanding of PLC/automation is a plus.
- Data-driven mindset with proficiency in Excel and data analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, JMP).
- Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills; proven project management abilities.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.