Plastics Process Engineer – Molding and Light Assembly

Molding Process Engineer – Molding and Light Assembly

The Molding Process Engineer will serve as a specialist in injection molding and light assembly, with a primary focus on plastics processing. This role is also responsible for supporting existing product lines by driving cost savings, efficiency improvements, and process reliability while ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.

The ideal candidate will have hands‑on experience with molding and assembly processes and a proven track record of executing value engineering initiatives that deliver measurable cost and performance benefits. This position will work out of our Avilla, IN facility.

• Analyze, develop, and optimize molding parameters, tooling performance, and assembly methods for throughput and scrap reduction.
• Lead sustaining engineering efforts to support existing molding and assembly production lines.
• Collaborate with design, quality, and supply chain teams to evaluate and implement alternative materials, components, or processes that drive cost savings.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for molding machines, assembly processes, and tooling issues.
• Identify, plan, and execute Value Improvement Projects (VIPs) to reduce cost, improve efficiency, and enhance quality.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, PFMEAs, and control plans.
• Track and report KPIs for cost savings, cycle time, yield, scrap, and OEE.
• Support automation and fixture improvements to increase consistency and reduce manual operations.
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for recurring production issues.
• Train operators and technicians on best practices and process changes.
• Ensure all activities comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Plastics, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering.
• 3+ years of experience as a Process Engineer in injection molding and light assembly.
• Experience with sustaining engineering and cost reduction/value engineering projects.

Technical

Skills:

• Proficiency in injection molding process setup, optimization, and troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with mold design, tooling maintenance, and polymer materials.
• Knowledge of assembly processes (mechanical fastening, adhesives, small‑scale automation, etc.).
• Strong background in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, PFMEA, SPC, and continuous improvement tools.
• Skilled in data analysis and cost modeling to support VIPs.

Soft Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving mindset.
• Excellent collaboration skills across engineering, quality, supply chain, and operations.
• Clear and concise communication for documentation, reporting, and operator training.
• Ability to balance short‑term troubleshooting with long‑term strategic improvements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Engineering or Plastics Technology.
• RJG or equivalent certification in scientific molding.
• Experience in value analysis/value engineering (VA/VE) projects.
• Background in automotive, medical device, lighting, or consumer products manufacturing.

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to make a direct impact on cost savings and product lifecycle improvements.
• A collaborative, innovation‑driven environment with focus on operational excellence and sustainability.