Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing Engineer role at Ashley Furniture Industries.

* This position is 100% onsite, with the flexibility to sit in either Arcadia, WI or one of our Mississippi locations.*

The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing manufacturing processes and facility layouts to enhance production efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. This role will manage key engineering projects from concept to completion, including equipment specification, procurement, and installation. The ideal candidate will be a hands‑on problem‑solver with a strong foundation in lean manufacturing and continuous improvement.

• Design and improve manufacturing processes, procedures, and production layouts for assembly, fabrication, and material handling.
• Analyze production workflows, identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies, and implement robust solutions to improve throughput and reduce waste.
• Develop and maintain standard work instructions, process flow diagrams, and manufacturing documentation.

• Develop detailed specifications for new manufacturing equipment and automation systems.
• Manage the procurement process, including vendor selection, quoting, and capital justification (ROI analysis), as well as RFP and RFQ’s.
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and validation of new equipment, ensuring it meets all performance and safety requirements.
• Lead plant layout projects, using CAD software to design efficient and ergonomic work cells and facility flows.

• Manage cross‑functional engineering projects from inception to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget.
• Coordinate with internal teams (operations, maintenance, quality) and external vendors to ensure successful project execution.
• Develop project timelines, track milestones, and provide regular status updates to leadership.

• Implement and champion lean manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping) across the facility.
• Lead and participate in continuous improvement events and initiatives to drive a culture of operational excellence.
• Use data analysis and root cause analysis tools to solve complex manufacturing problems.

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 2‑5 years of hands‑on experience in a manufacturing engineering role within an industrial or manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience with plant layouts, process design, and equipment installation projects.
• Demonstrated experience with project management, including managing timelines and budgets.
• Strong understanding and practical application of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles.
• Proficiency with 2D/3D CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Solid Works).

Preferred:

• Experience in an industrial environment, such as manufacturing.
• Experience with automation, robotics, or advanced manufacturing technology.

• Health, Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Your Birthday off
• Generous Employee Discount on home furnishings
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Ashley Wellness Centers (location specific) and Medical Tourism
• 401(k) and Profit Sharing
• Life Insurance

We are an equal opportunity employer and provide a drug‑free working environment. While Ashley appreciates the interest of all candidates only those meeting specific position requirements may be contacted. Principals Only.