Department: Manufacturing / Process Improvement Reports To: Dunkirk General Manager Key Interfaces: Operations, Technology, Quality, Accounting, Production Control, and Management Team Members Position Overview The Project Engineer / Analyst is a developmental role focused on driving steel manufacturing process improvements through data analytics, business applications, and Lean manufacturing strategies. This position serves as a bridge between technical data systems and operational execution—developing analytical tools, facilitating Lean/Kaizen initiatives, and leading multidisciplinary project teams to improve productivity, product quality, and safety. Key Responsibilities Continuous Improvement & Lean Manufacturing • Lean Execution: Apply Lean principles to eliminate waste, improve On-Time Delivery (OTD), reduce cycle times, and establish new work standards for machinery, processes, and personnel. • Kaizen Facilitation: Lead Kaizen events and focused continuous improvement initiatives across all shifts alongside Manufacturing Supervisors and Operators. • Culture & Coaching: Build a Lean culture through "Learn by Doing" coaching and Train-the-Trainer methodologies to build department self-sufficiency. • Metrics & Dashboards: Develop visual metrics and performance dashboards to track KPIs and identify operational gaps plant-wide. Data Analysis & Systems Support • Process Analysis: Leverage existing data systems, Statistical Process Control (SPC), and Level 2 (L2) automation data collection to analyze and improve process capability and product quality. • Database & Software Maintenance: Troubleshoot, refine, and improve plant databases and analytical tools. • User Support & Training: Provide training, documentation, and technical support to system end-users across all plant departments (with occasional off-hours/fill-in support). Project Management & Execution • Project Planning: Define project scopes, timelines, budgets, staffing allocations, and resource requirements. • Team Coordination: Direct project staff, assign duties, monitor progress against milestones/budgets, and resolve technical issues. • Management Reporting: Prepare project status reports and executive presentations for management and stakeholders. Workplace Safety • Maintain a plant culture that prioritizes employee health and safety above all operational goals. • Enforce strict compliance with safety rules, procedures, and PPE requirements while actively recommending safety enhancements. Essential Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities • Lean Manufacturing Mastery: Deep understanding of Lean tools (5S, Value Stream Mapping, Root Cause Analysis, SMED, etc.) to drive quantifiable productivity and cost savings. • Technical & Analytical Aptitude: Proficiency in SPC, database/software troubleshooting, and automated data collection systems (L2 automation). • Project Leadership: Strong skills in project scoping, resource allocation, schedule tracking, and managing cross-functional teams. • Communication & Collaboration: Superior written/verbal communication skills with proven ability to craft executive presentations and engage with all plant levels. • Adaptability & Resilience: Ability to manage changing priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining composure under pressure. Qualifications • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering.- Preferred • Experience: • Minimum 2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment. • Minimum 2 years of related engineering, data analysis, or process improvement experience.