Innovation Engineer

The Innovation Engineer plays a key role as a catalyst for both disruptive change and incremental continuous improvement across the plant's operations. This position is designed to develop early-career engineering talent by immersing them in strategic cost-reduction initiatives that combine structured problem-solving methodologies with emerging technologies.

The role's primary objective is to lead and execute strategic cost-reduction projects by leveraging 6-Sigma methodologies, Data Analysis, Machine Learning, Additive Manufacturing, the Ford Production System (FPS), Lean Manufacturing principles, and creative/design thinking. 

The Innovation Engineer will be expected to balance hands-on project execution with data-driven decision making, translating analytical insights and lean principles into measurable, sustainable savings and process improvements.

6-Sigma Pillar (Quality & Process Excellence) 

• Lead DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) projects aimed at reducing variability in both production and administrative processes.

• Identify, document, and eliminate sources of defects or rework that have a direct negative impact on manufacturing costs.

• Apply statistical tools and root-cause analysis techniques to validate process improvements and sustain results over time.

• Support the certification path toward Six Sigma Green Belt by actively participating in improvement projects.

GDIA — Global Data Insights & Analytics / Ford Production System

• Collaborate to extract, clean, analyze, and interpret large volumes of operational data from plant systems.

• Implement predictive models to anticipate quality, cost, or efficiency issues before they materialize.

• Enhance digitalization processes by identifying opportunities to automate manual reporting, dashboards, and data collection routines.

• Translate data insights into clear, actionable recommendations for engineering and operations stakeholders.

• Support the deployment of FPS tools and best practices in collaboration with area supervisors and process engineers.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Final Assembly, Body, Stamping, Paint, CBA, and MP&L areas to assist in the innovation process, provide project documentation support, and track KPIs.

• Act as a liaison between the Innovation team and plant floor stakeholders to ensure alignment on priorities and timelines.

• Communicate project status, risks, and results to supervisors and cross-functional partners on a regular basis.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, or a related field (required).

• Master's degree in Engineering or Manufacturing is a plus, though not required.

• 0 to 2 years of professional experience (entry-level position); recent graduates are encouraged to apply.

• Availability to work on-site at the CSAP plant (Cuautitlán) and travel between plant areas as needed.

• Legal authorization to work in Mexico.

• IMPORTANT – SELECTION PROCESS: Preselected candidates must attend and successfully complete an in-person Assessment Center held at CSAP (Cuautitlán's Plant) as part of the final stage of the recruitment process. Attendance is mandatory for advancement; remote or virtual participation will not be accepted.

Technical Skills

The following technical (hard) skills have been identified as critical for success in this role, along with the expected proficiency level for an entry-level candidate:

• Six Sigma Green Belt methodology

• Lean Manufacturing — Intermediate to Advanced: solid understanding of waste elimination, 5S, value stream mapping, and standardized work.

• Programming (C++, Python) — (Nice to have)

• Electrical/Mechanical Knowledge — Basic: foundational understanding of electrical and mechanical systems used on the shop floor.

• 3D Modeling Software — (Nice to have)

• Fanuc & UR Robot Programming — (Nice to have)

• Cloud Computing — Basic: understanding of cloud platforms for data storage, processing, or dashboarding.

• English Language Proficiency — Advanced: strong written and verbal communication skills 

As part of the final stage of the recruitment process for this requisition, all preselected candidates will be required to attend an in-person Assessment Center. This assessment will take place on-site at CSAP (Cuautitlán's Plant).

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