Production Engineer

Wanco Inc. is seeking a hands-on Production Engineer to join our Aurora 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 What You Bring 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{rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"}