Sunlight Batteries USA, part of a global leader in advanced energy storage solutions, is seeking a results‑driven Industrial Engineer to support and improve efficiency, productivity, and quality across our forklift lithium‑ion battery manufacturing operations. This role is focused on optimizing assembly processes, supporting production operations—including robotic and laser welding systems—and driving continuous improvement initiatives across battery module and pack production lines.
The ideal candidate brings a strong process‑engineering mindset, hands‑on manufacturing experience, and a passion for continuous improvement in a fast‑paced, safety‑critical environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Process Optimization & Manufacturing Support
- Analyze, design, and optimize manufacturing workflows for lithium‑ion battery assembly operations.
- Conduct time studies, motion analysis, and line balancing to improve throughput, efficiency, and labor utilization.
- Monitor and analyze key performance metrics such as OEE, cycle time, scrap rates, and downtime, recommending and implementing improvements.
- Design and optimize plant layouts, workstation ergonomics, and material flow to support safe and efficient operations.
Automation, Welding & Technical Support
- Support and improve laser welding processes used in battery module assembly, working closely with production and quality teams.
- Collaborate with automation and controls teams to support and troubleshoot KUKA robotic welding systems (KUKA Robot Control / KRC).
- Apply basic robotics and automation knowledge to identify process improvements and reduce disruptions.
Documentation, Systems & Standards
- Develop, maintain, and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and process documentation for current and future battery products.
- Maintain and update Bills of Materials (BOMs) and basic production data within SAP.
- Ensure manufacturing processes comply with safety standards, quality requirements, and proper battery handling practices.
Cross‑Functional Collaboration & Continuous Improvement
- Support cross‑functional teams including production, maintenance, quality, engineering, and supply chain.
- Lead or contribute to continuous improvement initiatives using Lean manufacturing principles and structured problem‑solving methods.
- Perform root cause analysis and support corrective and preventive actions to improve product quality and operational stability.
Physical Requirements
- Manufacturing and plant floor environment.
- Exposure to welding operations, battery materials, industrial equipment, and automation systems.
- Required use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Ability to walk, stand for extended periods, and occasionally lift up to 35 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation.
Basic Requirements
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States; employment‑based sponsorship is not available.
- Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
- 1–2+ years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
- Strong understanding of:
- Lean Manufacturing Principles
- Time studies and work measurement
- Process optimization and continuous improvement techniques
- Basic knowledge of laser welding processes, preferably in battery or metal assembly applications.
- Exposure to KUKA robotic systems (KUKA Robot Control / Smart Pendant – basic level).
- Basic working knowledge of SAP (production, inventory, or data tracking modules).
- Strong analytical, data driven problem solving, and communication skills.
Preferred Skills
- Experience in battery manufacturing (lithium‑ion or lead‑acid) or similar high‑volume manufacturing environments.
- Familiarity with automation integration and robotic manufacturing cells.
- Basic PLC knowledge.
- Experience with AutoCAD or layout design tools.
- Six Sigma Green Belt certification (or willingness to obtain).
- Knowledge of welding quality standards and inspection methods.
Skills Required
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States; employment-based sponsorship is not available.
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field.
- 1-2+ years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
- Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles.
- Experience with time studies, work measurement, and process optimization.
- Basic knowledge of laser welding processes (preferably in battery or metal assembly).
- Exposure to KUKA robotic systems (KUKA Robot Control / Smart Pendant).
- Basic working knowledge of SAP (production, inventory, or data tracking modules).
- Strong analytical, data-driven problem solving, and communication skills.
- Ability to work in a plant floor environment, use PPE, stand/walk for extended periods, and occasionally lift up to 35 lbs.
- Experience in battery manufacturing (lithium‑ion or lead‑acid) or high-volume manufacturing environments.
- Familiarity with automation integration and robotic manufacturing cells.
- Basic PLC knowledge.
- Experience with AutoCAD or layout design tools.
- Six Sigma Green Belt certification or willingness to obtain.
- Knowledge of welding quality standards and inspection methods.
What We Do
Sunlight Batteries USA Inc. is a manufacturer and developer of lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries and chargers, specializing in industrial motive power applications. They provide energy storage solutions for OEMs, forklift fleets, and logistics providers, supporting equipment like electric forklifts, pallet trucks, and mobile lifting platforms across North America. As part of the global Sunlight Group, they focus on high-performance, sustainable industrial mobility solutions.
