Job Title: Manufacturing Engineer Location: Rockford, IL
Department: Manufacturing Engineering Reports To: Engineering Manager
Job Type: Full-Time Salary Range:60-80k
Position Summary
We are seeking a proactive and organized Manufacturing Engineer to lead project management efforts and oversee the effective use of our Plex ERP system within the manufacturing environment. This role will drive cross-functional coordination for new product launches and process improvements, ensuring that operational data, part setups, and routing logic in Plex are accurate, timely,and production-ready. In addition, this engineer will provide as-needed technical support to the DomesticHinge Product Line (CCH), helping resolve process or tooling issuesand contributing to process improvements.
Note: This role may also play a key part in supporting the launch of Aerospace related projects, requiring precision, documentation rigor, and cross-functional engagement with quality and production teams.
Key Responsibilities
- Project Management: Lead and coordinate engineering projects from concept through production, including new product introductions, process changes, and production line implementations.
- ERP (Plex) Management: Own and maintain all manufacturing-related data in Plex, including routings, BOMs, part numbers, work centers, and standard costing.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with Quality, Planning, Production, Supply Chain, and Design Engineering to drive project timelines, resolve roadblocks, and meet launch objectives.
- Domestic Hinge Support: Provide technical and process support to Commercial Cabinet Hardware (CCH), including troubleshooting, documentation updates, and small-scale process improvements.
- Documentation Control: Develop and maintain engineering documentation such as work instructions, setup sheets, routings, and manufacturing specifications within Plex and controlled systems.
- Process Validation: Assist in first-piece validation, capability studies, and post launch performance evaluations to ensure processes are stable and repeatable.
- Change Management: Lead or support engineering change notices (ECNs), including assessing impacts and ensuring proper implementation across systems and departments.
- Lean Manufacturing & Optimization: Identify and execute opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize workflows across departments.
- Training& Support: Train production and support staff on new processes, procedures, and Plex functionality as related to their roles.
Qualifications Required:
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent practical experience).
- 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with a focus on engineering project execution or ERP administration.
- Strong experience with Plex ERP or equivalent manufacturing ERP systems (managing BOMs, routings, part setup, etc.).
- Demonstrated project management experience (formal or informal), preferably within a manufacturing or operations setting.
- Strong organizational, communication, and documentation skills.
Preferred:
- Familiarity with Robotic Welding, Machine Forming, Tube Bending, Forge Machining, or similar operations.
- Experience working with or supporting hinge-related product lines or other continuous manufacturing environments.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Project, Excel, and CAD tools (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, etc.).
- Exposure to lean tools and process improvement methodologies.
Why Join Us
- Be a key contributor in aligning engineering projects with digital systems and real time production needs.
- Support the launch of new and high-precision Aerospace manufacturing programs.
- Work in a dynamic environment with opportunities to lead, solve problems, and continuously improve.
- Competitive compensation, benefits, and growth potential within a fast-paced manufacturing setting.
Drive Engineering with Precision and Purpose
If you're a manufacturing engineer who thrives on structured project execution and smart ERP integration and you're ready to roll up your sleeves to support real-time production needs-this is your opportunity.