Process Engineer

The Process Engineer supports the execution of production-area business plans by driving continuous improvement, optimizing manufacturing processes, and supporting operational excellence. This role proactively advances the vision for assigned production areas while fostering teamwork and collaboration across production, engineering, and management.

The position requires strong technical judgment, independent problem-solving, and the ability to address complex manufacturing challenges within established standards and practices. While the role does not have direct reports, it carries functional leadership responsibility within plant operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Other duties may be assigned.

• Develop and implement production improvements to achieve production schedules and product requirements using lean manufacturing principles, with a focus on variation reduction.
• Support strategic capital investment planning through technical analysis and financial justification.
• Lead and participate in improvement projects focused on productivity, scrap reduction, and process efficiency.
• Analyze and improve machine layouts to enhance productivity and material flow.
• Review and support Requests for Quotation (RFQs) and Design Reviews (DRs).
• Promote safe work practices and support initiatives related to ergonomics, health, safety, and 5S.
• Maintain awareness of quality standards and department quality goals; collaborate cross-functionally to resolve quality issues.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with production employees, engineering teams, and management.
• Apply structured, data-driven problem-solving methods using PDCA and similar methodologies.
• Implement systems and controls to prevent recurrence of known process and quality issues.
• Train, coach, and support operators using standardized work methods to improve performance and consistency.
• Achieve productivity improvement goals established by the organization.
• Apply continuous improvement and Kaizen principles to manufacturing operations and maintenance activities.
• Conduct time studies to establish production targets and support line balancing efforts.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
• Coordinate Profitable Improvement Plan (PIP) projects and similar operational initiatives.
• Create and maintain new items, bills of material (BOMs), and routings within the ERP system; ensure master data and documentation remain accurate and current.
• Coordinate and implement 4M changes (Man, Machine, Material, Method) in accordance with established change management processes.

Supervisory Responsibility

This position does not have direct reports. However, it may provide functional leadership and coordination for engineering interns, project teams, and cross-functional work groups as required.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

While performing the duties of this role, the associate is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, use hands to grip or hold objects, and communicate verbally. The associate frequently reaches with hands and arms and may occasionally stoop, kneel, or crouch.

The associate regularly lifts up to 10 pounds, frequently lifts up to 25 pounds, and may occasionally lift up to 50 pounds. Vision requirements include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Work is performed primarily in a manufacturing environment. The associate may be exposed to moving mechanical parts, airborne particles, vibration, and varying noise levels. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing, or Process Engineering preferred).
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in an automotive or similar manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and product specifications.
• Experience applying lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD or similar drafting tools.
• Experience developing and maintaining standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Working knowledge of FMEA and Lean Six Sigma principles.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.