Engineering Manager
Brooklyn Center, MN | Direct-Hire | $120,000–$140,000 | Fully Onsite

Our client is seeking a hands-on, solutions-focused Engineering Manager to lead daily operations and process innovation within their high tech manufacturing group. This role plays a key part in advancing extrusion technology and ensuring production excellence through the integration of lean manufacturing principles, precision engineering, and collaborative team leadership.

The ideal candidate will bring extensive polymer extrusion experience, strong process troubleshooting skills, and the ability to drive both incremental improvements and large-scale initiatives across production, tooling, and new product introduction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the full lifecycle of extrusion operations—from setup and changeovers to continuous production and shutdowns—to ensure production targets, quality standards, and throughput metrics are met.
• Lead scheduling, material planning, and resource allocation strategies to optimize machine uptime, minimize scrap, and align output with customer demand.
• Troubleshoot complex production challenges involving tooling, process stability, raw material variation, and machine performance.
• Analyze key productivity indicators (KPIs), machine efficiency data, and yield metrics to uncover root causes and recommend process improvements.
• Standardize extrusion best practices and document clear, scalable operating procedures for technician training and cross-team use.
• Drive continuous improvement efforts across tooling, extruder configuration, temperature controls, and downstream equipment.
• Mentor and manage a team of extrusion technicians, providing clear direction, performance feedback, and technical guidance.
• Support maintenance planning for critical tooling, spares, and preventative maintenance routines to minimize downtime and protect production schedules.
• Evaluate, select, and implement new materials, extrusion technologies, and downstream processes to improve cable performance, efficiency, and product range.
• Prepare project proposals and ROI analyses for capital investments related to new equipment or facility upgrades.
• Maintain quality and regulatory compliance in alignment with internal standards and external certifications (e.g., ISO 9001).

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Materials, Industrial, or related discipline).
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in polymer extrusion process engineering.
• Proven expertise in extrusion system setup, downstream equipment operation, and tooling optimization.
• Strong familiarity with SPC, DOE, and other quality and process control methodologies.
• Knowledge of various thermoplastic and thermoset materials, additives, and compound behaviors in extrusion environments.
• Demonstrated ability to lead production teams, manage technician development, and resolve performance issues.
• Hands-on experience with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), line controls, and automation preferred.
• Excellent project management skills, including the ability to manage capital projects, track budgets, and lead cross-functional implementation efforts.
• Willingness to travel occasionally (domestically and internationally as needed, ~10%).

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with employer contribution
• Paid time off (PTO) and holiday schedule
• Professional development and training programs
• Bonus potential tied to individual and team performance

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Konik is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other protected class status.

Konik has been creating impactful relationships between technical talent and employers for more than 50 years. Konik has specialized in placing professional, qualified personnel in Minnesota and western Wisconsin businesses since its inception, and maintains a strong commitment to customer service.