The Six Sigma Manufacturing Engineer (SSME) (PDF) program is a professional development opportunity for high-potential engineering graduates in Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical or Manufacturing Engineering. It is a two-year program within the Optical Systems Division (OSD) designed to develop technical talent for our manufacturing organization.
During the program, each engineer will have a series of four rotational assignments designed to build a strong understanding of OSD's product and process technology, organization and global supply chain. Typical rotations last six months and include one rotation in St. Paul, Minn.; two rotations within OSD's US-based manufacturing facilities (Menomonie, Wis.; Petaluma, Calif.; Decatur, Ala.; Hutchinson, Minn.; or Greenville, S.C.) and one rotation within an international OSD manufacturing facility (Japan, China, Korea, Taiwan or Poland).
What We Do
During each rotation, the engineer leads short-term (4-6 months) projects driving product/process improvement, cost reduction and/or increased customer satisfaction. At the same time, the engineer learns process improvement methodologies and tools, and develops a rich company network. Leading projects within the division’s diverse manufacturing settings offers significant opportunities to develop personally and professionally while contributing substantially to division objectives.
Opportunities
Broad Exposure: Project rotations provide valuable networking opportunities, including division, plant and corporate contacts. A local mentor and Black Belt coach will be assigned for each rotation. The engineer also meets regularly with the project champion, division Master Black Belt and division Manufacturing Director.
Participation in an international assignment provides considerable additional networking opportunities and exposure within the international and corporate communities not typical of new graduate positions. It also completes an understanding of the entire OSD supply chain.
Career Path: After successful completion of the two-year SSME program, the engineer will take a regular, full-time technical position within OSD's manufacturing organization.
Education & Experience
Candidates are selected from a diverse student population with undergraduate and graduate degrees in chemical, mechanical, electrical or manufacturing engineering. Prior manufacturing internships or co-op experiences are desirable.
