Manufacturing Engineer L1 in Hayward, California at Delphon Industries, LLC dba Gel-Pak

JOB SUMMARY

The Manufacturing Engineer L1 is a key member of the manufacturing engineering team, supporting continuous improvement initiatives and day-to-day manufacturing operations. This role focuses on applying production and engineering principles to improve processes, enhance product quality, and support efficient production. The position requires collaboration across engineering, research & development, quality, materials, and operations teams to drive performance and operational excellence.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and support manufacturing equipment, tooling, and automation systems to maximize uptime, improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), and support high-volume manufacturing operations.

• Perform and document preventive maintenance activities, diagnose electro-mechanical equipment issues, and implement corrective actions to minimize production downtime.

• Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, Six Sigma, DOE, and structured problem-solving methodologies.

• Conduct root cause investigations for production issues, equipment failures, scrap, customer complaints, and RMAs; develop, validate, and implement corrective and preventive actions.

• Design, develop, qualify, and implement manufacturing tools, fixtures, automation systems, and process improvements, including ROI analysis, system design, and equipment qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ).

• Collect, analyze, and interpret manufacturing data to drive process optimization, improve product quality, and support operational decision-making.

• Support qualification and validation of manufacturing processes, equipment, materials, suppliers, and new product introductions (NPI), ensuring compliance with established requirements.

• Partner closely with Production, Quality, R&D, Supply Chain, and external suppliers to implement process changes, transfer new products into manufacturing, and achieve project objectives.

• Develop, maintain, and revise engineering documentation including work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), process specifications, validation protocols, and manufacturing records.

• Support supplier qualification, supplier audits, and new material evaluations to ensure quality, reliability, and manufacturing readiness.

• Train and support production operators and technicians on equipment operation, process changes, safety requirements, and manufacturing best practices.

• Promote workplace organization, safety, and operational excellence through the application of 6S principles and standard work practices.

• Prepare and formulate production materials and support sample builds, engineering trials, and process development activities as required.

• Perform other duties and responsibilities assigned over the course of employment.

ESSENTIAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing Engineering, or related field.

• 2 years of experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment; inclusive of qualifying internships.

• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and engineering principles.

• Experience with design software like SolidWorks/AutoCAD

• Familiarity with problem-solving methodologies and continuous improvement concepts (Lean, Six Sigma is a plus).

• Strong analytical and organizational skills.

• Effective communication and ability to work in a cross-functional team environment.