Manufacturing Engineer

ACS Group is a privately held company that designs and manufactures comprehensive lines of auxiliary products for the plastics processing industry. ACS Group maintains an expansive product line, which includes size reduction equipment (granulators and shredders), material conveying equipment, metering and blending devices, heat exchangers (mold temperature control units and chillers), drying systems, and presses. These products are marketed under such recognizable brand names as AEC, Sterling, Cumberland, Wabash and Carver.

Job Summary:

ACS Group is seeking a hands-on and solution-oriented Manufacturing Engineer to join our high-performing team in New Berlin, Wisconsin. This role is pivotal in ensuring our machinery is not only built to spec but also designed for efficient manufacturability. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in cooling systems (compressors, evaporators, condensers, and heat exchangers), be passionate about process optimization, and thrive in a collaborative, continuous improvement-focused environment.

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Key Responsibilities:

* Process Optimization: Design, evaluate, and refine manufacturing processes with a focus on quality, safety, and efficiency.

* Hands-On Engineering: Actively troubleshoot new product designs to ensure they are functional, cost-effective, and manufacturable.

* Cooling Systems Expertise: Apply knowledge of thermal and mechanical systems-especially compressors, evaporators, condensers, and heat exchangers-to optimize performance and assembly methods.

* Lean Manufacturing: Lead and participate in Lean initiatives, Kaizen events, and 5S projects. Support standard work development, takt-time analysis, and process mapping.

* Continuous Improvement: Use tools such as 5-Why, Fishbone diagrams, A3, and 8D to solve problems and eliminate waste.

* Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with design engineers, shop floor teams, and supply chain staff to support design for manufacturability and improve production flow.

* Data-Driven Decisions: Conduct time studies, analyze KPIs, and identify trends to drive process enhancements.

* Capital Projects & Cost Reduction: Lead capital improvement projects, including ROI justifications for new equipment, tooling, or technology.

* Quality & Compliance: Participate in PFMEA, work with Engineering & Quality on ECN's, MRR's and other processes, and support internal audits to maintain high-quality standards.

* Training & Documentation: Develop and deliver training on new processes or systems and maintain clear process documentation.

* Customer Engagement: Support resolution of customer complaints through root cause analysis and corrective actions.

* Daily Involvement: Take part in Gemba walks and contribute to a culture of daily improvement and accountability.

Qualifications:

* Education: Associate or Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering (or related field).

* Experience: Minimum 3 years in a manufacturing environment; experience with cooling systems or thermal equipment is highly preferred.

* Technical Skills: Knowledge of manufacturing processes, mechanical systems, and ERP systems.

* Software Proficiency: Comfortable using CAD tools (SolidWorks preferred), Excel, and ERP platforms.

* Problem Solving: Strong analytical skills with hands-on troubleshooting experience.

* Communication: Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills; ability to engage with shop floor and executive leadership alike.

* Certifications (Preferred): Universal Certification for Refrigeration, Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or other process improvement credentials.

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Physical Demands:

* Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and perform physical tasks such as standing, walking, bending, and reaching in a manufacturing setting.

* Comfortable working around machinery, with occasional exposure to noise, heat, or moving equipment.