Process Engineer

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Process Engineer to join our growing Tier 1 automotive manufacturing team in Charlotte, Michigan. This role is responsible for developing, optimizing, and sustaining injection molding processes to support the production of high-quality automotive components. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in plastic injection molding, process optimization, and continuous improvement within a high-volume automotive manufacturing environment.

This position will partner closely with Production, Quality, Maintenance, Tooling, and Program Management to drive operational excellence, improve process capability, and support new product launches.

• Develop, optimize, and maintain plastic injection molding processes to improve quality, productivity, and cost efficiency.
• Troubleshoot molding defects, process variation, tooling issues, and equipment performance to minimize downtime and scrap.
• Establish and document process parameters, work instructions, and standard operating procedures.
• Support new product launches through APQP, mold trials, process validation, and PPAP submissions.
• Participate in PFMEA, Control Plan development, and process capability studies.
• Analyze production data to improve cycle times, OEE, first-pass yield, and overall process performance.
• Lead root cause investigations using 8D, 5 Why, Fishbone, and other structured problem‑solving methods.
• Collaborate with Tooling, Maintenance, Engineering, and Production teams to resolve manufacturing challenges.
• Support engineering changes, equipment installations, mold qualifications, and process improvements.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste and improve operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with IATF 16949 standards and customer‑specific automotive requirements.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Plastics Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 3 years of Process Engineering experience
  .
• Experience working for a Tier 1 automotive supplier or within automotive manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of injection molding process development, troubleshooting, and optimization.
• Experience with Automotive Core Tools:
  • APQP
  • PPAP
  • PFMEA
  • Control Plans
  • MSA
  • SPC
• Working knowledge of IATF 16949 requirements.
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and manufacturing data analysis tools.

• RJG Scientific Molding certification or equivalent processing certification.
• Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma Green Belt certification.
• Experience with robotic automation, hot runner systems, and automated manufacturing equipment.
• Experience supporting new program launches and customer process validations.

• Competitive salary of $90,000–$95,000 based on experience