Manufacturing Engineer
Date: Feb 13, 2026
Location: Carthage, MO, US
Company: Leggett & Platt
We, at Leggett & Platt Inc., are searching for an entry-level Manufacturing Engineer within our machine development team to help support our bedding business. Did you know we have been revolutionizing the sleep industry since 1883? That’s right! In fact, we hold the original patent on a spiral steel coil bed spring, filed way back in 1885. Since then, we have been an industry leader in guaranteeing you get the best sleep possible. If you join our team, your work will ensure people across the world have a little more comfort in their lives.
As an Entry-Level Manufacturing Engineer at Leggett & Platt, you will play a pivotal role in refining and optimizing our manufacturing processes, with a specific focus on our comfort core coiler and assembler machinery and processes. You will support initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency, reducing waste, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Utilizing your foundational knowledge in Lean Manufacturing principles, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement innovative solutions that drive operational excellence and quality.
So, what will you be doing as a Manufacturing Engineer?
- Conduct comprehensive analyses of manufacturing processes to identify opportunities for improvement, including reducing scrap, optimizing machine speed and reducing downtime.
- Analyze and mitigate machine stops through machine enhancements, effective maintenance, and operational strategies to minimize downtime and improve spare parts spend.
- Lead proactive maintenance initiatives (TPM) to enhance equipment reliability and performance.
- Standardize processes to reduce variability and ensure consistent quality outputs.
- Develop innovative methods to decrease material usage while maintaining product quality standards.
- Apply Lean Manufacturing concepts to drive continuous improvement through engaging teams in proactive problem-solving.
- Develop a deep understanding of comfort core coiler and assembler machinery functions, troubleshooting, and maintenance procedures to optimize process efficiency.
- Streamline changeover processes utilizing Single-Minute Exchange of Die (SMED) techniques to reduce setup times.
- Document process improvements and results using the A3 problem-solving format.
- Work closely with cross-functional partners to gather insights, explore challenges, and formulate effective solutions.
- Utilize strong communication skills to share insights and influence positive change.
- Leverage Machine Intelligence information systems to identify areas for improvement, confirm the effectiveness of implemented strategies, and monitor compliance with process standards.
To be successful in this role, you’ll need:
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Electronics or a related field.
- Understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and techniques.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
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- Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
- Strong skills in understanding and working with electrical engineering tools.
Things we consider a plus:
- Internship or co-op experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Interest in learning the Comfort CoreÒ coiler and assembler machinery mechanical and controls systems.
- An understanding of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and Single-Minute Exchange of Die (SMED) techniques.
- Ability to use our Machine Intelligence IoT information systems to identify improvement opportunities.
What to Do Next
Now that you’ve had a chance to learn more about us, what are you waiting for! Apply today and allow us the opportunity to learn more about you and the value you can bring to our team. Once you apply, be sure to create a profile, and sign up for job alerts, so you can be the first to know when new opportunities become available.
Our Values
Our values speak to our shared beliefs and describe how we approach working together.
- Put People First reflects our commitment to safety and care of each other, learning and development, and creating an inclusive environment of mutual respect, empathy and belonging.
- Do the Right Thing focuses us on acting with honesty and integrity, delivering the results the right way, taking pride in our work, and speaking the truth – good or bad.
- Do Great Work…Together occurs when we engage without hierarchy, collaborate as a team, embrace challenges, and work for the good of all of us.
- Take Ownership and Raise the Bar demonstrates our responsibility to add value and make a difference, challenge the status quo and biases to make things better, foster innovative and creative solutions to drive impact, and explore new perspectives and embrace change.
Our Commitment to You
We're actively taking steps to make sure our culture is inclusive and that our processes and practices promote equity for all. Leggett & Platt is comprised of people of all abilities, gender identities and expressions, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, veteran status, and more. Join us!
We welcome and encourage applications if you meet the minimum qualifications. Even if you do not meet the preferred qualifications, we’d love the opportunity to consider you.
Equal Employment Opportunity/Veteran/Disability Employer
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