Operations Specialist Engineer

We, at Leggett & Platt Inc., are searching for an Operations Specialist Engineer within our operations 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 the Operations Specialist Engineer you will support US Spring manufacturing branches by training technicians and operators to operate production equipment safely, produce quality products, and diagnose and resolve machinery or quality problems. This role ensures repeatable manufacturing practices through EOJT documentation, Product Specific training, and hands-on knowledge transfer.  The successful candidate will be adept at adapting training to suit diverse adult learning styles. And gain a deep technical understanding of mattress spring manufacturing.

So, what will you be doing as an Operations Specialist Engineer?

• Be part of the operations process for the design and performance of wire innerspring pocketed coils. 
• Have hands-on operation of coil-forming equipment to understand its construction, mechanical operation, electrical systems, and controls.
• Oversee how coils are assembled into complete innerspring units, including the sequence, tooling, and equipment involved, which are all part of the production process.
• Troubleshoot, resolve and document machine and quality issues.
• Participate in and support Tech Team meetings.
• Redeploy and install machinery.
• Support the introduction and launch of new products.

Primary Objectives

• Develop a skilled, high performing workforce capable of producing quality innerspring products and meeting performance standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve equipment and quality issues.  Use these opportunities to improve training and drive machinery enhancements.
• Improve machinery efficiency and reliability across the US Spring business unit.
• Enhance product and process quality while reducing manufacturing variability.
• Support Bedding Group growth objectives through improved equipment utilization and technical staff training.
• Establish an efficient and effective training program for new employees that transitions them to capable production roles.  This means

• • Ensuring safe practices and equipment operation, and
  • Producing high-quality coils, innersprings and mattresses.

• Conduct performance tests and inspections on the mechanical, control, pneumatic, and electrical systems of the machinery.  Diagnose and correct issues.
• Operate coilers and assemblers to demonstrate best practices.
• Uninstall, relocate, and install production equipment as required.
• Support efficient, cost-effective management of replacement parts.
• Support and train technicians how to perform repairs, rebuilds, and upgrades.
• Collaborate with engineering and product development teams to ensure manufacturability, quality, and cost objectives are met.
• Document key machine parameters, modifications, repairs, and process improvements for training and future troubleshooting.
• Ensure equipment is safe, compliant, and optimized for operation.

Training & Team Support

• Promote a safe, positive and professional environment.
• Be an advocate for the manufacturing employees, bringing opportunities and issues to the attention of branch and business unit management.
• Implement structured four-level training methodologies for coiler, assembler, roll pack and other equipment operators.
• Multi-level training to cover basic to advanced areas of Operations, including Safety, Machine functionality, Industry specific knowledge, and hands on processing, troubleshooting and maintenance. 

To be successful in this role, you’ll need:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Maintenance, or Process Engineering (or equivalent technical experience).

Technical Skills

• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings.
• Understand the mechanical, electrical, and control systems of manufacturing machinery.

• Strong troubleshooting capability across mechanical, pneumatic, electrical, and control systems.
  • Knowledge of PLC systems, servo drives/motors, and 3-phase power supply.
  • Proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and schematics.
  • Hands-on familiarity with coil-forming and assembly equipment a plus (training will be provided).
  • Understanding of key quality characteristics in coil manufacturing, innerspring assembly, and mattress production.

Training & Communication Skills

• Proven ability to train adult learners in technical subjects.
• Skilled at explaining complex mechanical and electrical concepts in clear, practical terms.
• Strong listening skills to tailor instruction to learner needs.
• Capable of using multiple teaching methods—visual, verbal, and hands-on—to reach all learners.

Soft Skills

• Collaborative and approachable with strong interpersonal skills.
• Process-driven with attention to safety and quality.
• Adaptable to shifting priorities and frequent travel requirements.
• Leadership potential to guide technical projects and mentor others.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand/walk for extended periods; frequent bending, reaching, and climbing on equipment.
• Capable of lifting/pushing/pulling up to 75 lbs.
• Adequate vision and hearing to detect quality issues and operate equipment safely.

Things we consider a plus:

• Ability to speak and read Spanish and/or German is a plus.

This will be part of a strategic plan to successfully complete a 2-year training program. And then relocate to one of the following:

  Carthage, MO   Ennis, TX   Rensselaer, IN  and/or  Monroe, GA

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.

• Putting 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 demonstrate 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.

Equal Employment Opportunity/Veteran/Disability Employer

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