Production Engineer

Wanco Inc. is seeking a hands-on Production Engineer to join our Arvada team. This is a great opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer who wants to build hands-on experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role plays a key part in improving assembly efficiency, manufacturability (DFA), and overall production performance. You will work closely with operations teams to optimize processes, reduce waste, including quality defects.

This is a highly visible, shop-floor-focused role ideal for someone who enjoys solving real-world manufacturing challenges and driving continuous improvement.

What You’ll Do

· Identify and address key production bottlenecks impacting cycle time, efficiency, and output

· Collaborate with design engineering to incorporate Design for Assembly (DFA) improvements

· Lead and support lean manufacturing initiatives, including 5S and waste reduction projects

· Develop and optimize line balance, cell layouts, and process flows

· Create, implement, and sustain work instructions, visual controls, and standardized processes

· Document production processes and maintain accurate manufacturing requirements

· Update drawings, specifications, and process-related Engineering Change Requests (ECRs)

· Participate in design reviews and provide feedback based on shop floor learnings

· Manage project timelines, including scheduling and cost tracking for improvement initiatives

Required Qualifications

· 1–3+ years of experience in production or manufacturing engineering (electromechanical assemblies preferred)

· Proficiency in SOLIDWORKS and Microsoft Office Suite

· Strong problem-solving skills with experience identifying and resolving production issues

· Experience with root cause analysis tools (e.g., cause-and-effect/Fishbone diagrams)

· Working knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and 5S practices

· Experience developing work instructions, one-point lessons, and visual workplace systems

· Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate across teams

· Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and implement solutions

Preferred Qualifications

· Experience with ISO 9001:2015 standards

· Exposure to project management, including capital (CAPEX) projects

· Experience with SMED or quick changeover techniques

· Knowledge of line balancing and cellular manufacturing design

· Process mapping experience

· Exposure to budget planning or cost tracking in a manufacturing environment

Why Join Wanco?

· Strong learning environment in manufacturing

· Opportunity to work on real improvements that impact production performance

· Collaborative team culture with mentorship from experienced operations leaders

· Opportunity for growth

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

· Work in a manufacturing environment with regular shop floor interaction

· Ability to stand, walk, and engage with production equipment as needed

· Use of standard office equipment, including computers

· Adherence to PPE and safety requirements

· Occasional travel may be required

Reporting: This position reports to the Director of Operations.

Salary Range: $70,000-$90,000 per year based on qualifications.

Benefits: Insurance (Medical, Dental, Life, 401k). Paid time off and holidays.

Wanco Inc. Address: 5870 Tennyson St. Arvada, CO 80003 | wanco.com

Pay: $70,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person