Location: Auburn Hills, MI

Position Overview

Seeking an experienced Automotive Manufacturing Engineer with a strong background in body assembly processes and optimization . The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of experience in body-in-white (BIW) or body assembly environments, focusing on improving efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. This role will be responsible for evaluating, optimizing, and implementing processes to enhance body assembly operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and evaluate body assembly processes to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement in cycle time, material flow, and quality.
• Develop and implement process optimization strategies to improve productivity, reduce downtime, and enhance overall line performance.
• Utilize lean manufacturing principles such as value stream mapping, time and motion studies, and line balancing to optimize body assembly workflows.
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure body assembly processes align with design intent and manufacturability.
• Lead and manage continuous improvement initiatives using Six Sigma, Kaizen, or other methodologies to improve assembly line efficiency.
• Provide technical expertise in the installation, commissioning, and optimization of body assembly equipment, including welders, fixtures, jigs, and automation systems.
• Conduct weld process analysis (spot welding, MIG welding, laser welding) and optimize welding parameters to ensure structural integrity and quality.
• Evaluate tooling and equipment performance, recommend improvements, and work with vendors on modifications.
• Develop and document standard work processes and operating instructions for body assembly operators.
• Monitor and report key performance indicators (KPIs), such as uptime, throughput, cycle time, scrap rate, and rework levels, with actionable improvement plans.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and ergonomic best practices to improve operator safety and productivity.
• Train production staff on optimized processes, best practices, and new equipment as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in automotive body assembly or BIW manufacturing processes .
• Strong knowledge of welding processes (spot, MIG, laser) and related assembly technologies.
• Proficiency with industrial engineering tools such as:
• Time and motion studies
• Value stream mapping
• Line balancing
• Demonstrated experience with lean manufacturing methodologies and process improvement techniques.
• Familiarity with body assembly equipment, including robotic systems, fixtures, and tooling.
• Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, CATIA, or SolidWorks) for layout and tooling optimization.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to evaluate processes and implement data-driven solutions.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work with technical teams, vendors, and production staff.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt or higher).
• Experience with robotic programming and automation systems (e.g., FANUC, ABB, KUKA).
• Familiarity with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) or similar production management tools.
• Experience working with automotive OEMs or Tier 1 suppliers in a BIW manufacturing environment