gpac is hiring: Manufacturing Engineering Manager in Chattanooga

Apply for the Manufacturing Engineering Manager role at gpac . Base pay range: $105,000.00/yr - $158,000.00/yr Summary / Objective The Manufacturing Engineering Manager leads the manufacturing engineering department, overseeing manufacturing engineers and technicians and managing short‑ and long‑term projects to enhance performance. Projects include Lean and Six Sigma initiatives, design for manufacturability, automation and robotics, advanced manufacturing methods, new equipment integration, and facility enhancements. The role also provides dotted‑line oversight of production engineers and reports to the Director of Operations as a key member of the manufacturing leadership team. Core Responsibilities Safety Promote and reinforce a “Zero Injury” culture. Drive safety improvements through engineered solutions that eliminate or reduce exposure to hazards. Quality Ensure standardized work, CTQs, and process control plans are developed, implemented, and maintained. Define and document standard ME processes to ensure engineering projects are completed safely, on time, within budget, and error‑free. Support the Director of Operations in developing and implementing training plans to strengthen team capabilities. Delivery Serve as the liaison between Engineering and Manufacturing to ensure successful launches of new product development (NPD) and engineering change requests (ECR). Develop and implement a robust ECR process within manufacturing, including routings, standard costs, drawings, programming, and related documentation. Cost Lead full‑time and/or contract engineers to deliver annual operating plan (AOP) projects that support EBITDA improvement and reduced net working capital. Develop and implement standardized processes for quoting, capital planning, capital requests, and project tracking within the ME function. Propose, justify, and lead capital projects focused on automation and technological improvements. Continuous Improvement Monitor manufacturing engineering department performance to ensure ROI on projects and initiatives. Lead Lean, Six Sigma, and Design for Manufacturing activities that drive continuous improvement. Support KPI processes to accurately measure performance and drive daily improvements in Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost (SQDC). Identify problems, conduct root‑cause analysis, and implement effective corrective actions. Position Requirements Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent). 3‑5 years of experience in a manufacturing support role. Capital project management experience preferred. Lean, TPS, or Six Sigma certification is a plus. Experience in metal stamping, coatings, and/or welding is a plus. High‑volume, discrete manufacturing experience preferred. Desired Skills & Qualifications Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to build trust and foster collaboration across all levels of the organization. Demonstrated change management experience, particularly in driving transformation toward a Lean manufacturing culture. Proven ability to deliver measurable performance improvements with clear bottom‑line impact. Formal Lean training from a recognized "academy" organization (e.g., Shingijutsu, TBM, Toyota, Danaher, Daikin). Proficiency with MS Project or similar project‑management software. Work Environment / Physical Demands The work environment varies between quiet, controlled office areas and more active, higher‑noise manufacturing floors. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Physical requirements include frequent sitting, computer work, use of hands and fingers, occasional reaching with hands and arms, and occasional lifting or moving of up to 25 pounds. Position Type / Expected Hours Exempt; typically 40+ hours per week. Travel Limited travel required. Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field. 5+ years of manufacturing experience, preferably in metal fabrication. 2+ years of leadership or supervisory experience. Proven experience implementing Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. #J-18808-Ljbffr