Thermoforming Corporate Engineering Manager

The Process Engineering Manager is responsible for leading a multi-site engineering team focused on process execution, line startup, and operational excellence across manufacturing facilities. This role ensures successful onsite line startups (line-in/line-out), process standardization, and continuous improvement initiatives across plastic processing operations.

This leader will drive accountability, elevate team capability, and develop engineering talent while partnering cross-functionally to support high-impact product launches, equipment implementation, and plant performance optimization.

• Lead and oversee process engineering activities supporting line startup, equipment commissioning, and tooling validation across multiple plants
• Establish standardized work instructions (SWIs), process documentation, and quality standards to ensure consistency and operational stability
• Drive troubleshooting efforts and provide technical guidance for complex process or equipment failures
• Support plant teams during multi-shift and multi-week startup initiatives, including high-urgency product launches
• Develop and execute departmental strategy aligned with business goals, including:
• Prototype and material development support
• Equipment scheduling and readiness
• Multi-site startup coordination
• Lead process optimization initiatives, including:
• Scrap reduction and yield improvement
• Line optimization and throughput enhancement
• SMED and Kaizen events
• Establish and track KPIs, leveraging data-driven analysis to drive measurable business improvements

• Support new equipment implementation including factory acceptance testing (FAT), runoff validation, and production ramp-up
• Partner with internal teams and external vendors to support prototyping, especially for equipment and processes developed internationally
• Identify process improvement opportunities tied to capital investments (Cap Ex)
• Lead a team of approximately 10 direct reports, with oversight supporting 9+ manufacturing sites (expanding up to ~30 facilities)
• Build a high-performing team by developing talent, improving skill sets, and creating clear career progression pathways
• Establish accountability and performance expectations while fostering engagement across a diverse, multi-site team
• Serve as a change agent—driving alignment, consistency, and execution across plants with varying needs and perspectives

• Partner with R&D, equipment engineering, and plant leadership to ensure successful product and process integration
• Influence and communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels, including executive leadership
• Build trusted vendor relationships and support technical capability development across facilities
• Managing and aligning engineering teams across multiple sites with varying levels of capability and engagement
• Driving consistency and accountability in environments with differing operational expectations
• Supporting high-volume product launches and simultaneous equipment installations
• Balancing travel requirements (~40% on average annually) with evolving business priorities

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (or related field) OR equivalent experience
• 6+ years of engineering experience within manufacturing environments
• 5+ years of leadership experience managing technical teams
• Strong background in plastics processing (required), including:
• Thermoforming (preferred)
• Extrusion
• Blow molding (secondary consideration)

• Deep understanding of polymer behavior, material characteristics, and process optimization
• Experience developing process documentation, DOE (Design of Experiments), and line setup protocols
• Proven ability to stabilize and optimize manufacturing processes within plant environments
• Knowledge of plant operations, production metrics, and efficiency drivers

• Results-driven, self-motivated leader who operates with a high degree of ownership
• Strong ability to influence, drive change, and hold teams accountable
• Hands-on but not a micromanager; empowers teams while maintaining performance standards
• Effective communicator and collaborator across multiple functions and levels
• Role can be based at a key manufacturing site (e.g., Mason, Horse Cave, Leola, or Randleman)
• “Remote” alignment requires strong regional/multi-site engineering leadership experience
• Travel averages approximately 40% annually, depending on project and business needs