Job description
Join NovaForge Manufacturing, a leading innovator in precision metal components, as a Senior Industrial Production Engineer in Chicago. Drive operational excellence, implement lean manufacturing, and lead cross-functional improvement initiatives that optimize throughput, quality, and cost.
In this role, you will shape the production system by applying data-driven methodologies, mentoring teams on standard work, and partnering with design, procurement, and maintenance to maximize value across the value stream.
Responsibility
- Lead and optimize daily production operations to meet safety, quality, and on-time delivery targets.
- Develop and implement lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives (Kaizen, 5S, value stream mapping) across multiple lines.
- Lead root cause analysis for process defects and implement corrective actions with measurable results.
- Collaborate with design, purchasing and maintenance to optimize BOM, equipment layout, and capacity planning.
- Manage production scheduling, line balancing, and capacity planning to reduce bottlenecks and elevate line efficiency (OEE).
- Establish and sustain standard work, visual management, and training programs for shop floor teams.
- Monitor KPIs, generate data-driven insights, and present improvement plans to senior leadership.
Qualification
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field; Master's preferred.
- 5+ years of experience in industrial production, manufacturing engineering, or operations within a manufacturing environment.
- Strong knowledge of Lean Six Sigma, continuous improvement methodologies, and standard work.
- Experience with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle) and MES; proficient in data analysis (Excel, SQL, Tableau).
- Demonstrated leadership and cross-functional collaboration with diverse teams.
- Excellent problem-solving, root cause analysis (8D, fishbone) and project management skills.
- Effective communicator with the ability to present to executives and frontline staff.