Manufacturing Engineer

Position Summary

Indiana Tube Corporation is seeking a results-driven Manufacturing Engineer to support and improve our tube manufacturing operations. This role is responsible for optimizing manufacturing processes, improving product quality, increasing throughput, reducing cost, and supporting new product development across coiled and cut-to-length/spooled tubing production lines.

The Manufacturing Engineer will work cross-functionally with Production, Maintenance, Quality, and Sales to drive continuous improvement initiatives, troubleshoot process issues, and implement data-driven solutions in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement

- Analyze and improve tube mill processes including forming, welding, sizing, cutting, spooling, and coiling operations.
- Assist Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives to increase OEE, reduce scrap, and improve cycle times.
- Utilize statistical tools (SPC, capability analysis, DOE, root cause analysis) to identify and eliminate process variation.
- Monitor production metrics and develop corrective action plans to meet quality and throughput goals.

Equipment & Production Support

- Collaborate with Maintenance to improve equipment reliability and reduce downtime.
- Develop and maintain process documentation including work instructions, control plans, and setup sheets.
- Assist with capital projects including equipment selection, installation, validation, and commissioning.
- Support troubleshooting of production equipment and tooling to ensure consistent performance.

Quality & Compliance

- Support quality initiatives to ensure products meet customer and industry specifications.
- Conduct root cause analysis for non-conformances and implement corrective/preventive actions.
- Improve inspection methods and process controls to ensure consistent tube dimensional and weld integrity performance.
- Participate in internal and external audits as needed.

New Product & Process Development

- Support new product launches and process validation trials.
- Evaluate tooling designs and forming parameters for new sizes or materials.
- Work closely with Sales and customers to ensure manufacturability of new product designs.

Data & Reporting

- Use statistical software (e.g., Minitab or equivalent) to analyze process capability and performance trends.
- Develop dashboards and reporting tools to track KPIs such as scrap rate, yield, downtime, and throughput.
- Provide technical presentations and recommendations to leadership.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field required.
- 3+ years of manufacturing engineering experience preferred (tube mill, roll forming, metal fabrication, or similar continuous process manufacturing environment highly desirable).

Technical Skills

- Experience with continuous forming or welded tube processes preferred.
- Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and statistical process control.
- Proficiency in CAD software and Microsoft Office applications.
- Experience with Minitab or similar statistical software is a plus.

Competencies

- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive results.
- Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).
- Hands-on approach with ability to work on the production floor.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and quality.

Physical Requirements

- Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, heat, and moving equipment.
- Ability to stand, walk, and occasionally lift up to 40 lbs.