Downstream Engineer

The Downstream Engineer role focuses on maintaining optimal performance and reliability across automated downstream manufacturing systems. In this onsite position in Bowling Green, KY, you will apply mechanical, electrical, and control systems expertise to improve uptime, integration, and efficiency for post-production processes.

Downstream Systems Scope

You will support automated downstream equipment and processes, including product handling, packaging, palletizing, labeling, and automated material flow. The work includes troubleshooting performance issues, improving system integration, and driving continuous improvement for manufacturing operations.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and resolve performance issues in automated downstream equipment, including robotics, conveyors, packaging, and palletizing systems
• Analyze system performance data to identify process improvement opportunities and equipment optimization needs
• Develop and maintain equipment documentation, engineering standards, and maintenance procedures
• Support integration of PLC, HMI, and networked control systems within manufacturing operations
• Lead or assist with capital projects covering automation upgrades, layout changes, and system retrofits
• Collaborate with maintenance and operations teams to support compliance with safety and quality standards
• Provide technical training and support to maintenance and production staff
• Lead Root Cause Analysis (RCA) activities with cross-functional teams; Greenbelt/Blackbelt

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronics Engineering (or related field) preferred
• 5+ years of experience in an automated or high-speed manufacturing environment preferred

Preferred Technical Skills

• Proficiency with PLCs, robotics, motion systems, and industrial automation technologies
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on root cause analysis and reliability engineering
• Experience with project management, vendor coordination, and system commissioning is preferred
• Greenbelt or Blackbelt certified preferred
• RCA leadership training and skill set preferred
• Background and training facilitation preferred

Technologies

• PLC, HMI
• Robotics
• Motion systems
• Industrial automation technologies
• Networked control systems

Performance Metrics

• Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE): 90% target for downstream systems
• Unplanned Downtime Reduction: year-over-year decrease of 10%
• Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF): continuous improvement based on historical baseline
• Mean Time to Repair (MTTR): target reduction of 15% through troubleshooting and maintenance planning
• Root Cause Analysis (RCA) Completion Rate: 100% of major equipment failures investigated with formal RCA
• Corrective Action Implementation: 90% of recommended improvements implemented within agreed timelines
• Automation Improvement Projects: minimum of 2 cost-saving or process-enhancing projects completed per year

Competencies

• Ensures Accountability
• Decision Quality
• Communicates Effectively
• Instills Trust
• Collaborates
• Values Differences
• Drives Results

Physical Demands

• Regularly required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms; very occasionally to climb or balance
• Regularly required to talk and hear
• Occasionally required to sit
• Must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 lbs, frequently lift and/or move up to 30 lbs, and occasionally lift and/or move more than 50 lbs
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match
• Childcare and dependent care savings programs
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Company-paid life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance
• Tuition reimbursement and educational assistance programs
• Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits
• Career growth and advancement opportunities
• Employee recognition programs
• Hands-on training and professional development
• A stable, growing company committed to sustainability