Intelligent Operations Engineer

AI Process Engineer- Intelligent Operations

ABOUT PELLA CORPORATION

Pella Corporation is one of the largest manufacturers of windows and doors in North America. As a leader in technology and product innovation, Pella has been awarded more than 150 product and design patents. And the team at Pella is as committed as ever to continuing the company's proud heritage of building innovative windows and doors.

At Pella, we want to help you find what makes you an extraordinary team member. That's why we offer individualized talent development plans, cross-functional experiences, and opportunities for career advancement through personal and professional development.

Our national brand is supported by 7,000+ team members at 17 manufacturing sites and 70+ sales branches across the country who are dedicated to serving our customers with Pella Passion - a way of being that inspires us to go above and beyond for each other, our customers, and our communities. Pella Passion has guided our actions for 95 years and will carry us forward as we capture the rare blend of inspired design and exceptional detail in our work and our lives.

Be part of a highly innovative group of engineers where it's about the products and processes we create, and the customers that we serve.

SUMMARY PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Do you dream of a future where factories hum with intelligent efficiency, powered by AI? Are you an AI whiz with an understanding of integrating AI technologies into manufacturing processes? If so, then this is the role for you!

We're seeking a driven Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Engineer to join our forward-thinking Intelligent Operations team. You'll be a champion for integrating cutting-edge solutions to supercharge our production processes and reduce inefficiencies.

Responsible for bringing thought leadership and innovation to the application and deployment of Artificial Intelligence in Pella's operations environment. Collaborates cross functionally with resources in Manufacturing, Intelligent Operations, Data Analytics, and IT to identify ways to leverage AI to drive operational efficiency, then works across teams to develop related solutions. Areas of opportunity include, but are not limited to, vision systems, AI chatbots, machine learning & control, process optimization, automation, etc.

Manages complex engineering projects from concept through implementation to delivering results. Coordinates work within the scope of assigned projects to ensure objectives in terms of quality, cost, and time are met.

Follows the structure of Pella's Safety, Quality, Project Management & Continuous Improvement Systems from concept through project execution. Prepares project schedules and reviews cost estimates, compiles required cost and equipment information, and writes appropriation requests. Responsible for effective communication of engineering information among team members and stakeholders.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Partner with manufacturing engineers and data scientists to identify prime targets for AI/ML solutions across various operational areas, including:

• Predictive maintenance: Develop AI models that analyze sensor data to predict equipment failures before they happen, preventing costly downtime and ensuring smooth production flow.

• Quality control: Design and implement AI-powered vision systems to automatically detect defects in products with superhuman accuracy, eliminating the risk of flawed items reaching customers.

• Production scheduling: Craft AI algorithms to optimize production scheduling, considering factors like real-time demand fluctuations, machine availability, and material constraints, for a truly dynamic and efficient production line.

• Demand forecasting: Build AI models that analyze historical sales data, market trends, and external factors to generate highly accurate demand forecasts, enabling smarter inventory management and production planning.

• Translate your deep understanding of AI into practical solutions. Develop and implement custom AI models and algorithms specifically tailored to address the unique challenges of our manufacturing processes.

• Bridge the gap between the technical and operational worlds. Work closely with IT to ensure seamless integration of AI solutions with existing manufacturing systems (e.g., SCADA, MES, ERP) for effortless data exchange and unified operations.

• Continuously monitor and evaluate the performance of your AI models, analyzing their effectiveness and identifying areas for improvement. Fine-tune and optimize these models to ensure they deliver maximum value.

• Research and recommend new AI applications that hold promise for further optimizing our operations.

• Effectively translate complex technical concepts into clear, concise language for both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Be prepared to champion AI within the organization, fostering a culture of understanding and collaboration.

SCOPE:

Capable of working independently and with minimal direction on complex projects. Responsible for the advancement and application of engineering technologies and processes.

SUPERVISING OTHERS:

Primarily an individual contributor role that influences others. Capable of leading a team in complex technical projects from development through implementation.

Serves as a mentor and coach to others in area of expertise. May supervise exempt, non-exempt, and hourly employees.

APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE:

Develops and evaluates plans and criteria for a variety of projects and activities. Plans, schedules, and coordinates detailed phases of a project or task.

JUDGMENT:

Plans and coordinates work requiring independent judgment in the evaluation, selection, and adaptation of advanced techniques and processes. Knowledge and judgment have a direct effect on advancement of assigned technology and business results.

WORK HOURS:

Normal + irregular hours/shifts required. Primarily on site, but with occasional hybrid flexibility.

TRAVEL EXPECTATIONS:

Up to 25% dependent on project assignments. Corporate, enterprise role.

SAFETY:

Periodically exposed to machinery where safe operating procedures must be followed, occasional lifting of materials up to 30 lbs. is required, work environment may be noisy.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package that rewards your talent and dedication.

• Opportunity to be at the forefront of AI in manufacturing, shaping the future of a major industry.

• Be part of a team of passionate innovators who are revolutionizing the way we manufacture.

• Make a substantial impact on the company's bottom line by driving significant efficiency gains and cost reductions.

If you're an AI rockstar with a manufacturing heart, we want to hear from you! Apply today and help us build the factory of tomorrow!

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning or a related field (or relevant experience and skills that demonstrate exceptional ability) plus 3 years of hands-on experience successfully leveraging AI to solve real-world problems in an industrial setting. OR Master's degree plus 1 year of experience.

• Proven understanding of core manufacturing processes, including production planning, scheduling, quality control, and maintenance. A strong grasp of the challenges and opportunities for improvement within these areas is a plus.

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. You should be able to dissect complex manufacturing issues, identify root causes, and leverage AI to develop effective solutions.

CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT

Pella Corporation is committed to workforce diversity. Pella is a Tobacco-Free Work Environment.

Pella participates in E-Verify. Pella will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Pella Corporation provides a working environment free of discrimination and harassment. Pella Corporation treats all persons equally, regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age or disability, as each is protected under federal law.

A number of states in which Pella operates have laws protecting classifications of Team Members not necessarily protected under federal law. Therefore, Pella also treats all persons equally, regardless of political affiliation and belief, pregnancy, national origin, age, creed, marital status, military status, sexual orientation, mental disorder, veteran status, ancestry or handicap as each category is protected under a municipal ordinance or state law.