Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Engineering Manager will lead strategic initiatives to optimize injection molding, extrusion molding, blow molding operations, drive Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma programs, and manage engineering functions. This role combines leadership in process improvement with oversight of engineering, tooling department, and continuous improvement team to achieve safety, quality, cost, and deliverable objectives. The position is critical in fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence across the organization.

 ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

 Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategy
 

• Develop and execute a comprehensive continuous improvement strategy aligned with company goals.
• Lead, mentor, and supervise the Engineering, Tooling department, and Continuous Improvement teams, fostering safety, teamwork, and accountability.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to establish KPIs and performance metrics.
• Conduct performance reviews through Smart Goal initiatives and identify professional development opportunities.
• Support New Product Development team in developing new product releases

Process Optimization 

• Oversee and optimize manufacturing processes to ensure efficiency and high-quality standards.
• Identify and eliminate inefficiencies using Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen events, Value Stream Mapping, and Root Cause Analysis.
• Optimize mold changeover processes to reduce downtime and increase machine utilization.
• Maintain and enhance manufacturing SOPs to drive consistency and reduce variability.
   
  

Production & Quality Management
 

• Monitor daily production metrics and ensure targets for quality, cycle time, yield, and waste reduction are met.
• Troubleshoot production issues and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime.
• Ensure all products meet customer specifications and quality standards.
• Partner with quality teams to conduct root-cause analyses and implement preventative measures.
   

Project & Capital Management
 

• Plan, lead, and execute capital and process improvement projects within budget and timeline.
• Evaluate new technologies and equipment to improve operational efficiency.
• Manage CapEx projects, including equipment procurement, vendor negotiations, and implementation.
   
  

Continuous Improvement

• Lead continuous improvement activities. 
• Focus driven on cost saving initiatives.
• Partner with our safety team objectives to improve safety standards throughout the facility. 

Training & Development
 

• Conduct training sessions on Lean principles, Six Sigma tools, and problem-solving techniques.
• Empower employees to identify improvement opportunities and implement changes.
   

Data-Driven Improvement
 

• Analyze production data to identify trends, establish baselines, and monitor the impact of improvement initiatives.
• Track KPIs such as OEE, TEEP, cycle times, scrap rates, and downtime; prepare reports for senior leadership.

Set up and utilize Ignition software to analyze machine health, capabilities, and preventative maintenance requirements.
 
 Safety & Compliance
 

• Uphold safety regulations and ensure compliance with environmental and industry standards.
• Promote sustainable manufacturing practices to reduce waste and energy consumption.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE 

 Requirements:

•  Strong leadership and team-building abilities.
• Proficiency in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and process improvement methodologies.
• Exceptional problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems and statistical analysis software.
• Excellent communication skills for training and cross-departmental collaboration.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing), Operations Management, or related field. Master's degree is a plus.
• 8+ years in injection molding or plastics manufacturing.
• Proven track record of leading Lean and Six Sigma projects (certification preferred: Green Belt, Black Belt, or Lean Sensei).
• 8+ years of supervisory or managerial experience.
• Experience with injection molding equipment, materials, and process troubleshooting.
• CapEx project management experience.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk. The employee is occasionally required to sit. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to talk and listen.

WORK ENVIRONMENT 
 

Our facility operates with machinery that can be loud and requires ear protection and eye protection. The manufacturing environment can be fast-paced and physically demanding, with exposure to various materials and processes that may result in a dirty workspace. We prioritize safety and cleanliness, providing all necessary protective gear and maintaining strict hygiene standards. Despite the challenging conditions, we foster a collaborative and supportive atmosphere where teamwork and professional growth are highly valued.

ABOUT PETMATE

Petmate is a global leader in pet supply products. Some of our most beloved brands include Chuckit!®, Arm & Hammer®, Barkbone®, Gamma2®, HyperPet®, JW Pet®, La-Z-Boy®, Mad Cat®, Petmate®, Vittles Vault® and Wild Eats®. 

Over 60 years ago, Petmate began with a single focus on providing safe pet transportation, which resulted in the creation of the first dog kennel. Flash forward to today, and the same love and bond that existed to provide safe travels for our pets now permeates through every step of pet and pet owners shared adventure. 

Knowing that pets are every bit as much a part of the family, Petmate takes pride in developing new, superior products that improve the quality of life and enrich the bond created between people & their pets. From environmentally responsible manufacturing to rigorous product testing, we place safety at the core of what we make and how we make it. 

Our 25 trusted brands continually drive innovation across pet categories, spanning dog and cat toys, feeding and watering, food storage, carriers, shelters, bedding, consumables and more.

 OUR WHY: To enrich the lives of families by cultivating the bond between people & their pets 

OUR VISION: Families everywhere trust us more than any other company to enhance the well-being of their pets at every step of their adventure

 Petmate Core Values

OWN IT! We take full responsibility for our actions, decisions, and their outcomes

STEADFAST DETERMINATION: Steady pursuit of what's next with unwavering commitment and enthusiasm

DO THE RIGHT THING: Consistent alignment of actions and values in every situation, ensuring you're always true to what's right

SAFETY WITHOUT COMPROMISE: We prioritize the safety of employees, consumers, and pets without compromise

Petmate is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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