Manufacturing / Continuous Improvement (CI) Engineer

HYDAC is a family-owned organization committed to delivering high-quality products, components, and services that exceed customer expectations while ensuring environmental responsibility. With a passionate team and a collaborative culture, HYDAC designs and manufactures a comprehensive portfolio of innovative and reliable solutions tailored to diverse customer needs. The Manufacturing / Continuous Improvement (CI) Engineer plays a critical role in advancing operational excellence within the Hydraulics Division. This position combines hands-on manufacturing engineering expertise with strong leadership in Continuous Improvement (CI) and Lean methodologies. The ideal candidate will support production operations, optimize manufacturing processes, lead CI initiatives, and help drive a culture of sustainable improvement across multiple locations. Key ResponsibilitiesIn this role, you will make a meaningful impact by: Supporting all Lean and continuous improvement activities across the Chicagoland and Wooster, Ohio regions. Providing technical expertise to manufacturing departments to ensure compliance with design standards, quality requirements, and cost targets. Developing, reviewing, and improving assembly methods, tooling designs, floor layouts, and manufacturing cells. Owning and maintaining the interdepartmental escalation dashboard and initiating CI actions based on findings. Analyzing current processes, identifying improvement opportunities, and developing executable improvement plans. Leading cross-functional teams through process improvement projects, including facilitating workshops, Kaizen events, and project reviews. Training, mentoring, and coaching employees on CI tools, Lean principles, and structured problem-solving methodologies. Ensuring all CI initiatives align with organizational goals and operational strategies. Tracking, reporting, and communicating progress on CI projects while addressing risks or barriers to success. Collaborating with stakeholders at all levels to strengthen CI culture and promote continuous learning and improvement. Identifying automation, workflow, and cost-reduction opportunities to support efficiency and scalability. Creating and maintaining Value Stream Maps and other Lean documentation to visualize and optimize processes. Managing factory floor layouts and driving layout improvements to support operational excellence. Driving safety. RequirementsBachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Manufacturing, or related discipline preferred); relevant experience may be considered. 2-3 years of Manufacturing Engineering experience in a production environment. Minimum of 3 years of experience in a Continuous Improvement or Lean-focused role, with a strong track record of implementing CI initiatives. Strong working knowledge of Lean methodologies and tools, including 6S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, and Shop Floor Management. Six Sigma Black Belt certification or equivalent experience (preferred). Proficiency in SAP and Microsoft Office applications. Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, apply GD&T principles, and develop optimized manufacturing layouts. Strong analytical, problem-solving, leadership, and project management skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, with the capability to influence across all organizational levels. Project Management certification (PMP, PRINCE2, or similar). Working knowledge of 2D CAD software. Prior experience as a Manufacturing or Production Engineer. Experience in factory planning, industrial engineering, or logistics optimization. HYDAC offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including:Medical, dental, and vision insurance Paid holidays and paid time off 401(k) with company match Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Short-term disability and life insurance Pet insurance A supportive and collaborative work environment Salary range $80,000 - $95,000 / year IND123Salary Description$80,000 - $95,000 / year