Manufacturing Process Engineer – Mechanical

At Nextpower, we develop cutting-edge technologies to optimize utility solar power plants, transforming the way we utilize energy from the sun. Our commitment to quality and efficiency is paramount, and we are seeking a talented Sr. Manufacturing Process Engineer to play a critical role in optimizing our production processes. In this role, you will leverage your expertise in Lean Six Sigma methodologies to partner with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring a smooth transition of new electronic products from development to high-volume production. You will work collaboratively across various departments, including engineering, sourcing, quality, and program management to analyze existing processes, identify areas for improvement, and implement data-driven solutions that enhance efficiency, yield, and overall product quality. Your key responsibilities will include collaborating with R&D teams to manage the transfer from prototype to mass production, and partnering with external suppliers to document and analyze manufacturing processes for mechanical and motion control products. You will identify and implement critical to quality (CTQ) characteristics and create control plans to ensure product quality and consistency, utilizing tools like Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Process Flow Mapping (PFMEA) to define potential failure modes and their impact on CTQs. Additionally, you will analyze production data to evaluate yield and capacity, identifying opportunities for process improvement using statistical process control (SPC) techniques. Implementing Lean Six Sigma methodologies will be a significant part of your role, where you will optimize manufacturing processes, reduce waste, and improve efficiency through techniques such as Value Stream Mapping (VSM), Kanban systems, Poka-Yoke methods, and Design of Experiments (DOE). You will also develop and maintain process documentation, conduct process audits, and manage projects related to process optimization adhering to DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology. Staying up to date on industry best practices and new technologies related to high-volume manufacturing, including advancements in automation and AI process modeling, will be essential to your success in this position.

• Collaborate with R&D teams to manage transfer from prototype to mass production.
• Partner with external suppliers to document and analyze manufacturing processes for mechanical and motion control products.
• Identify and implement critical to quality (CTQ) characteristics and create control plans to ensure product quality and consistency.
• Utilize tools like Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Process Flow Mapping (PFMEA) to define potential failure modes and their impact on CTQs.
• Analyze production data to evaluate yield, capacity, and identify opportunities for process improvement.
• Leverage statistical process control (SPC) techniques to identify process variation and opportunities for improvement.
• Implement Lean Six Sigma methodologies to optimize manufacturing processes, reduce waste, and improve efficiency.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including work instructions and control plans.
• Conduct process audits to identify areas for non-conformance and recommend corrective actions based on Lean Six Sigma principles.
• Work collaboratively with engineering teams to identify and implement process improvements based on data analysis and statistical processes.
• Manage and track projects related to process optimization adhering to DMAIC methodology.
• Stay up to date on industry best practices and new technologies related to high volume manufacturing.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field (Master's degree a plus).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a manufacturing process engineering role, preferably within the solar, industrial motion control, automotive or commercial building products industries.
• Experience in working at supplier locations and working collaboratively with external teams.
• Experience working in a contract manufacturing environment preferred.
• Proven expertise in Lean Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred).
• Strong understanding of statistical process control (SPC) techniques, with experience applying control charts to analyze process data.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to process improvement.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.

Pay is based on market location and may vary based on factors including experience, skills, education and other job-related reasons. The annual salary range for this position is $125,000-$140,000.