Manufacturing Manager - Automotive - Westfield, MA

The business fosters a culture rooted in accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement, where leaders are empowered to make meaningful changes and bring forward new ideas. Employees benefit from a structured yet dynamic environment that encourages professional development and cross-functional collaboration across engineering, production, and leadership teams.

Manufacturing Engineering ManagerLead impactful manufacturing initiatives while driving continuous improvement. Ownership of capital projects, team development, and process improvements.Our client is a well-established leader in advanced manufacturing, known for delivering high-quality engineered products to a global customer base. With a strong reputation for operational excellence and innovation, the organization invests heavily in its people, processes, and technology to remain at the forefront of its industry. The business fosters a culture rooted in accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement, where leaders are empowered to make meaningful changes and bring forward new ideas. Employees benefit from a structured yet dynamic environment that encourages professional development and cross-functional collaboration across engineering, production, and leadership teams. This is an opportunity to join a stable, growth-oriented organization that values ethical leadership, long-term thinking, and a commitment to delivering best-in-class manufacturing solutions.Lead, manage, and develop the manufacturing engineering team, ensuring alignment with operational goals. Drive improvements across safety, quality, delivery, and cost metrics through structured initiatives. Oversee capital projects, from equipment specification through implementation and validation. Collaborate with cross-functional teams including production, quality, maintenance, and procurement to optimize operations. Analyze production data, identify inefficiencies, and implement corrective actions to improve performance. Design and improve manufacturing processes, workflows, and facility layouts to maximize efficiency. Champion continuous improvement initiatives using Lean tools such as Kaizen, 5S, Kanban, and SMED. Develop and manage departmental budgets, ensuring cost control and efficiency gains. Monitor production capacity, workforce planning, and training programs to meet demand. Ensure compliance with safety standards, quality requirements, and internal policies. Mentor and coach employees, fostering leadership development and a high-performance culture. Lead problem-solving efforts related to production issues, quality concerns, and equipment performance.Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field (advanced degree preferred). 10+ years of experience in manufacturing, including leadership or engineering management experience. Strong background in continuous improvement methodologies and Lean manufacturing principles. Demonstrated experience managing capital equipment projects and process optimization. Proven ability to lead teams, develop talent, and influence cross-functional stakeholders. Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, production planning, and cost control. Experience working within regulated or quality-driven environments (e.g., ISO standards). Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and drive decision-making. Excellent communication and leadership skills, with a results-oriented mindset. Hands-on approach with the ability to balance strategic thinking and day-to-day operational execution.Competitive compensation package aligned with experience and leadership scope. Opportunity to lead a key function within a stable and growing manufacturing organization. Exposure to high-impact projects, including capital investments and process transformation initiatives. Clear pathway for career advancement within a performance-driven environment. Collaborative and supportive workplace culture focused on continuous improvement and innovation. Access to ongoing training and professional development opportunities. Comprehensive benefits package including health coverage, retirement plans, and paid time off. Work environment that combines office and shop floor exposure, offering variety and hands-on engagement.