WHO WE ARE
Smartrend Manufacturing Group (SMG) Inc. is one of Manitoba's fastest-growing companies, committed to increasing safety in the school bus industry and reducing emissions in the electric vehicle charging sector through our diverse divisions. We design and develop exciting, patented, and innovative technologies that make a real and lasting impact across multiple industries.
At the heart of our success are the values that guide everything we do:
- People – our team is what makes us special
- Passion – from our hearts and minds, demonstrated through our actions
- Priority – we put the customer first, every day, in everything we do
- Partnership – with each other, our customers, and our suppliers
We provide a supportive environment where hard work, passions, and goals are recognized. Innovation and collaboration are at the heart of what we do. Share your drive and aspirations with us, and we'll ensure that your efforts open doors to new opportunities and growth.
THE POSITION
As part of one of SMG's fastest-growing divisions, the NPI Engineer works within a cross-functional NPI team responsible for guiding projects from RFQ intake through to the first production run. Collaborating with a wide range of internal stakeholders and customers, the NPI Engineer plays a critical role in ensuring new parts meet performance, quality, and cost objectives. The role focuses on enabling efficient transitions from development to production through close partnership with Design, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing to support successful product launches and continuous improvement initiatives.
HOW YOU WILL BE MAKING AN IMPACT
- Own assigned NPI deliverables, including tracking timelines, coordinating cross-functional inputs, and ensuring readiness for production release.
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Conduct Design for Manufacturability reviews to ensure products are designed for efficient production.
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Support NPI tracking and documentation using internal systems (ERP, project management, and quality tools).
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Drive APQP deliverables through the NPI lifecycle, including process flow diagrams, PFMEA, control plans, and PPAP submissions.
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Collaborate with sourcing and procurement teams to select and qualify suppliers for new components and materials.
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Support product validation activities, including first article inspections, build reviews, and PPAP documentation, where applicable.
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Proactively identify and mitigate risks in the production process before full-scale manufacturing to improve efficiency and minimize defects.
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Work with suppliers to support technical clarification, manufacturability feedback, and issue resolution during NPI phases.
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Work directly with international suppliers to support technical clarification, manufacturability feedback, and issue resolution during NPI phases.
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Read and interpret mechanical drawings, specifications, and bills of materials.
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
- New products are launched into manufacturing on schedule with full production readiness.
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Risks to quality, cost, and delivery are identified early and mitigated effectively.
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Manufacturability input improves production efficiency, reduces complexity, and supports successful product launches.
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Validation activities and required documentation are completed accurately and on schedule.
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Cross-functional collaboration supports smooth transitions from development to production.
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Supplier and technical issues are addressed proactively to maintain NPI timelines.
WHAT SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE YOU REQUIRE
- 2+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, NPI, product development, or a related environment.
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Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
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Background or strong interest in manufacturing or quality engineering, new product introduction or product development.
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Ability to work in a fast-paced, evolving environment with shifting priorities.
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Ability to read and understand mechanical drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
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Familiarity with Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles.
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Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
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Experience with CAD software or 3D printing.
THE BENEFITS OF BEING PART OF OUR TEAM
We believe that a healthy, supported team is key to our success. That's why we offer a benefits package that prioritizes work-life balance, financial wellness, and overall well-being.
Our team members enjoy:
- Competitive compensation package
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Comprehensive group benefits package
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Employer-paid Health Care Spending Account
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Generous paid time off, including vacation and paid sick days
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Company-paid holiday shutdown from Christmas to New Year's
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Company-matched RRSP plan
We would like to thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
