Job description
NovaLine Industries, a leading innovator in smart manufacturing solutions, is seeking a results-driven Senior Industrial Engineer to join our Chicago-based Operations team.
In this role, you will lead process improvement initiatives across assembly, machining, and packaging lines, applying lean principles, data analytics, and continuous improvement methodologies to drive cost reductions, throughput gains, and quality improvements.
Responsibilities include close collaboration with manufacturing, quality, maintenance, and supply chain to design, test, and implement processes and equipment; managing improvement projects from scoping to sustainable outcomes; and mentoring junior engineers.
Responsibility
- Lead and execute process improvement projects using Lean, Six Sigma, and Theory of Constraints to reduce waste, improve throughput, and lower cost per unit.
- Analyze production data, develop KPIs, and implement data-driven programs to monitor and sustain gains.
- Design and optimize plant layouts, line balancing, takt time, and capacity planning for multiple manufacturing cells.
- Coordinate with Manufacturing, Maintenance, Quality, and Supply Chain to design, install, and validate new processes and equipment.
- Justify, manage, and oversee automation and capital equipment projects from concept through commissioning.
- Develop standard work, work instructions, visual management, and training to sustain improvements.
- Provide technical mentoring to engineers and technicians; lead cross-functional project teams.
- Drive a culture of continuous improvement and data-driven decision making across operations.
Qualification
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a closely related field; Master’s degree preferred.
- 5+ years of hands-on experience in a manufacturing/industrial engineering role; plant floor exposure required.
- Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt), value stream mapping, and problem-solving methodologies.
- Proficiency with data analytics tools (Excel, Power BI, Minitab) and ERP systems (SAP or Oracle).
- Experience with production scheduling, capacity planning, line balancing, and GO/NO-GO decision making for capital projects.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and cross-functional leadership skills.
- Project management experience; PMP certification a plus.
- Ability to travel up to 15% as needed.