Manufacturing Engineer

Why Shiroki Corporation?

Shiroki Corporation is a proud member of the AISIN Group, a global leader in automotive components and systems. With a strong commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability, we support the mobility of the future through advanced manufacturing and engineering excellence. At our headquarters and facilities across North America, we foster a culture of continuous improvement (Kaizen), collaboration, and respect for people. Join us and be part of a team that’s driving progress in the automotive industry—where your ideas, expertise, and passion for people can make a lasting impact. About the Rol

About the Role
The Manufacturing Engineer will lead and support continuous improvement initiatives (KAIZEN), troubleshoot production issues, and drive engineering excellence across plastic extrusion operations. This role is critical in launching new programs from contract award through SOP, optimizing processes, and implementing changes driven by Engineering Change Instructions (ECIs) or lean manufacturing efforts. We are seeking a skilled Manufacturing Engineer to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in engineering principles, plastic extrusion, and a passion for innovative design and problem-solving. This role involves working on various projects, utilizing advanced engineering tools and methodologies to develop efficient solutions that meet industry standards.

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on support for plastic extrusion lines, ensuring optimal performance and minimal downtime
• Troubleshoot and resolve extrusion-specific quality and process issues, collaborating with operators and quality teams
• Design and implement poka-yoke systems tailored to extrusion defects and dimensional tolerances
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and technical documentation for extrusion processes
• Create and modify PLC and HMI programs to enhance extrusion line automation and control
• Collaborate with tooling and maintenance teams to manage perishable tooling inventory and crib requirements
• Lead PFMEA reviews and drive annual Risk Priority Number (RPN) reductions for extrusion processes
• Interface with the Quality department to address customer complaints, root cause analysis, and corrective actions
• Support ECI-driven changes and continuous improvement projects across extrusion and downstream operations
• Work with Industrial Engineering to define cycle times, Yamazumi charts, and labor requirements for extrusion cells
• Conduct DOE (Design of Experiments) and process validations for new extrusion tooling and materials
• Monitor and improve material flow, die design, cooling profiles, and puller calibration to ensure consistent product quality
• Participate in cross-functional teams to support SNA Continuous Improvement and lean manufacturing goals

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering (advanced degree preferred)
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment with plastic extrusion (sheet, profile, or tubing)
• Proficiency in extrusion equipment, including die design, barrel/screw configuration, and downstream systems
• Experience with process simulation tools (e.g., Autodesk Moldflow, COMSOL) and data analysis software (e.g., Minitab)
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 / IATF 16949 standards and GD&T principles
• Strong understanding of thermoplastics, material behavior, and extrusion-specific quality metrics
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma, SMED, or Kaizen facilitation is a plus
• Skilled in PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens) and HMI development
• Excellent communication, organizational, and project management skills

Preferred Skills

• Knowledge of co-extrusion, multi-layer die design, and vacuum calibration systems
• Experience with automated vision inspection systems and robotic downstream handling
• Ability to lead root cause analysis (RCA) and implement corrective/preventive actions (CAPA)
• Familiarity with ERP systems and MES integration for production tracking and reporting
• Strong analytical mindset with a passion for process optimization and waste reduction

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

• Engineering: 3 years (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Smithville, TN 37166 (Required)

Work Location: In person