Industrial Engineer

Job Description

Industrial Engineer
Location: Decorah, Iowa
Employment Type: Direct Hire | Full-Time
Work Model: 100% Onsite
Compensation: $75,000 – $90,000 base
Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package + relocation assistancePosition Overview HireNow Staffing is conducting a search for an experienced Industrial Engineer to support a growing manufacturing operation in Decorah, Iowa. This role is designed for a hands-on engineer who understands how to evaluate production systems at a granular level and implement measurable, sustainable improvements.This is not a theoretical or advisory role. The selected candidate will be expected to work directly on the floor, collaborate with supervisors and operators, and take ownership of process optimization initiatives from concept through implementation. Stability in prior roles is essential. Candidates with frequent short-term employment will not be considered.Key Responsibilities Process Optimization & Throughput Improvement

• Analyze production flow to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and non-value-added activities.
• Develop and implement practical solutions to improve cycle time, labor efficiency, and output.
• Establish and maintain engineered labor standards and time studies.
• Reduce work-in-process (WIP) and improve overall plant flow.

• Apply Lean manufacturing principles in structured improvement initiatives.
• Lead Kaizen events and structured problem-solving sessions.
• Implement visual management systems and standardized work documentation.
• Develop and sustain a culture of accountability and operational discipline.

• Collect, interpret, and present operational data to leadership.
• Develop capacity planning models and forecasting tools.
• Conduct root cause analysis and corrective action planning.
• Track KPIs and measure the financial impact of implemented improvements.

• Evaluate and redesign equipment layouts for optimal workflow.
• Improve material handling systems and plant floor organization.
• Participate in capital planning discussions and equipment justification.
• Support vendor selection and implementation of new manufacturing equipment.

• Partner with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and Production leadership.
• Provide technical coaching to supervisors and frontline leaders.
• Support training initiatives related to new processes and standard work.
• Assist in long-term operational strategy planning.

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or related discipline).
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive Industrial Engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated success improving throughput and eliminating production bottlenecks.
• Strong working knowledge of Lean tools and structured problem-solving methods.
• Proven ability to analyze data and translate findings into actionable plans.
• Stable employment history with demonstrated long-term contributions.
• Ability and willingness to work fully onsite in Decorah, Iowa.

• Experience managing or mentoring IE technicians or support staff.
• Background in mid- to high-volume manufacturing operations.
• Capital equipment implementation experience.
• Experience improving both manufacturing and administrative workflows.
• Advanced Excel and data visualization proficiency.
• Exposure to ERP systems and production planning software.

• Less than 5 years of relevant Industrial Engineering experience.
• No hands-on Lean implementation background.
• Consulting-only or theoretical experience without shop floor execution.
• Unstable work history or multiple short-term roles.
• Unwillingness to work fully onsite.

• Full-time onsite position in Decorah, Iowa.
• Local or nearby candidates strongly preferred.
• Limited relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates within the region.