Manufacturing Engineering Manager

About Justrite Safety Group

At Justrite Safety Group, we're more than just a collection of industrial safety companies; we're a dynamic organization dedicated to protecting people, property, and the planet. Our ever-growing portfolio of companies collaborates to deliver advanced industrial safety solutions that set the standard for excellence.

As our business continues to grow, we continue to look for top talent to join our team as we lead the charge in revolutionizing industrial safety, ensuring that every worker returns home safe, every workplace remains secure, and our environment thrives for generations to come. With Justrite Safety Group, safety isn't just a priority-it's our passion.

The Contribution You'll bring to this Role:

The Manufacturing Technical Manager (Manufacturing Engineering Manager) is responsible for leading and managing the technical aspects of the manufacturing processes at the Justrite (Mattoon, IL) location. They ensure the efficient production of high-quality products by overseeing facilities and equipment maintenance, process improvements, capital investments, and the technical support staff. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve production productivity goals while strictly adhering to safety and quality standards.

About the Team:

As a member of our Manufacturing Engineering team, you'll have the opportunity to work on innovative projects that directly enhance our production capabilities and drive continuous improvement across our facilities. Our team is committed to optimizing processes, developing cutting-edge tooling and equipment, and resolving complex engineering challenges to ensure the highest standards of quality and efficiency. With a focus on collaboration and excellence, you'll be part of a group that plays a key role in advancing our manufacturing operations. This role offers the chance to work alongside skilled professionals, contribute to meaningful projects, and support the growth of a company that is a leader in safety solutions.

What You'll Do at Justrite:

Process Optimization:

• Continuously analyze and improve manufacturing processes to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.

• Responsible for optimizing manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and increase overall productivity. This may involve implementing lean manufacturing principles or other process improvement methodologies.

• Remain focused on driving continuous improvement initiatives. This involves staying updated on industry's best practices, technology advancements, and process optimization techniques.

Technical Expertise:

• Must have a deep understanding of the technical aspects of multiple manufacturing processes. This may include knowledge of machinery, equipment, production techniques, and relevant technologies.

Problem Solving:

• Must be able to effectively navigate through technical issues with manufacturing processes through both tactical and strategic approaches. This may involve troubleshooting equipment, resolving process inefficiencies, and finding solutions to quality issues.

• Lead and facilitate Root Cause Analysis utilizing proven platforms such as: A3, 8D, and 5-Why methodologies.

• Implement sustainable corrective actions to prevent reoccurrences and that are aligned with business and operational objectives.

• Coach and develop the technical team members in structured problem-solving thinking, reinforcing a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and fact-based decision making.

Technical Team Management:

• Lead a team of technical professionals, including manufacturing engineers and maintenance technicians, by providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations.

Equipment Maintenance:

• Oversee the maintenance and repair of manufacturing equipment to ensure minimal downtime and optimal functionality.

• Utilize Maintenance KPIs to highlight and drive C/I: MTBF, MTTR, % Proactive vs. Reactive Work, Critical PM Schedule Attainment

Facilities (Building and Grounds):

• Oversee building and grounds maintenance to keep the site safe, compliant, and production-ready.

• Coordinate vendors and contractors, manage preventive maintenance for facility systems (HVAC, utilities, lighting), and maintain exterior grounds and common areas.

Quality Assurance:

• Support the Quality Assurance team while developing processes and sourcing new equipment to meet/exceed industry standards and meet customer expectations.

Safety & Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure that manufacturing operations adhere to safety regulations and promote a culture of safety within the team.

• Ensure that the manufacturing process complies with all relevant laws and regulations, including environmental and safety standards

Budget Management:

• Manage the technical department's budget, including resource allocation and cost control.

• Developing and managing budgets for the manufacturing process is a key responsibility. This involves monitoring expenses, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and ensuring that the operation remains within budgetary constraints.

Project Management:

• Coordinate and execute technical projects, including new equipment installations, upgrades, and process enhancements.

• Responsible for overseeing projects within the manufacturing process, such as the introduction of new equipment or the implementation of process changes.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with cross-functional teams, such as production, engineering, and quality control, to achieve production targets and resolve technical issues.

• Effective communication with various stakeholders, including production staff, management, suppliers, and customers, is essential. This includes providing regular updates on production status, addressing concerns, and facilitating collaboration.

Documentation & Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of technical processes, equipment specifications, and maintenance schedules.

• Keeping accurate records and generating reports related to production metrics, quality control, and other key performance indicators is important for tracking progress and making informed decisions.

Continuous Learning:

• Stay up to date with industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices to ensure the manufacturing process remains competitive.

Your Skills and Expertise:

To ensure your success from day one in this role, Justrite requires the following qualifications at a minimum:

• Leads and develops people: sets expectations, coaches performance, and builds accountability.

• Drives continuous improvement: uses data and structured methods to reduce waste and variation, then sustains standard work.

• Executes projects end-to-end: defines scope, manages risk, aligns stakeholders, and delivers on schedule and budget.

• Solves problems systematically: applies root cause tools (A3, 8D, DMAIC) and verifies fixes with measured results.

• Communicates and influences across teams: translates technical details into clear actions and escalates early.

• Builds a safety-first culture: integrates safety into designs and process changes and reinforces safe behaviors.

• Ensures quality at the source: designs for manufacturability, error-proofs where practical, and supports audits and corrective actions.

• Applies manufacturing engineering judgment: balances throughput, cost, quality, and maintainability when selecting processes and equipment.

• Manages change effectively: controls revisions, trains impacted teams and confirms adoption on the floor.

Compensation:

The position offers a competitive base salary ranging from $120,000 to $128,000.

Actual base salaries will vary and may be above or below the recommended pay range based on factors such as but not limited to location, relevant experience and performance. Additionally, this role is eligible for an annual incentive plan to enhance their overall total compensation package when Justrite Safety Group and their business units achieve annual business and financial targets.

Benefits:

Our benefits package at Justrite Safety Group is designed to be the best in the industry, offering everything you need to support your career and personal well-being. You'll receive a competitive salary paired with an extensive benefits package that includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage. We provide flexible hours and alternative work arrangements designed to support a healthy work-life balance. These options vary depending on the specific roles and business needs.

Your financial future is secure with our 401K plan, complete with a company match, and you're protected with company-paid short and long-term disability insurance. To ensure you're at your best, we also offer generous paid time off, personal days, and a robust employee wellness program that supports your overall health and happiness. At Justrite, our benefits package is designed to help you thrive both in and out of the workplace.

Why Choose Justrite Safety Group?

As a leading name in the safety industry, Justrite provides a platform where you can collaborate with some of the best professionals in the field, learning from experts and contributing to cutting-edge solutions. The company's commitment to excellence and innovation ensures that you'll be part of a team that is making a real impact. With a strong focus on career advancement, Justrite empowers its employees to thrive both personally and professionally, making it an ideal workplace for those looking to grow their careers in a meaningful and rewarding environment.

Join us and be part of a team dedicated to product excellence and making a positive impact in our company, and in our community!