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: 15800 E. 40th Ave. Aurora, Co 80011 | wanco.com
Show more Show less