Process Engineer

Process Engineer

Founded in 1944, HSM is a third‑generation, privately held company with a rich history of innovation and a commitment to our people. With 25 locations across the U.S. and corporate headquarters in Hickory, NC and Huntersville, NC, we specialize in manufacturing components for furniture, bedding, transportation, packaging, automotive and healthcare industries. This role supports our mission to deliver quality, efficiency and safety across multiple product lines.

As a Process Engineer you’ll be at the heart of process design and improvement—analyzing workflows, optimizing equipment and implementing scalable solutions across multiple product lines. Your work will ensure our operations deliver on quality, efficiency and safety goals every single day.

• Evaluate and improve production workflows to drive cost savings, reduce waste and increase throughput.
• Apply Lean, Six Sigma and time‑study methodologies to eliminate inefficiencies and enhance productivity.
• Conduct feasibility studies for new equipment, material substitutions or process modifications.
• Develop and maintain detailed process documentation, including SOPs, work instructions and flow diagrams.
• Support Engineering Change Notices (ECNs) and ensure Bill of Materials (BOM) accuracy.
• Maintain accurate process metrics, labor standards and takt times in collaboration with leadership.

• Partner with production, quality, maintenance and materials teams to resolve production issues and implement new processes.
• Support new product introductions and tooling launches alongside R&D teams.
• Assist with material flow planning and in‑process inventory optimization.

• Monitor key process indicators (scrap, downtime, rework) and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure process compliance with ISO‑9001 and other regulatory or customer requirements.
• Contribute to quality audits and customer reviews with thorough documentation and improvement initiatives.
• Lead small‑to‑mid‑size projects that enhance productivity, reduce cost and improve quality.
• Participate in Kaizen events, cost‑reduction programs and capital justification efforts.
• Maintain a robust improvement pipeline with measurable KPI tracking.

• Deliver process training and technical support to operators and team leads.
• Build operator proficiency in new methods, safety procedures and quality checkpoints.
• Serve as a subject‑matter expert in assigned process or equipment areas.

• Ensure all assigned processes comply with safety standards and risk mitigation practices.
• Identify and address hazards through process redesign and safe work practices.
• Participate in safety incident investigations and corrective actions.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial or related Engineering field preferred.
• 3‑5 years of experience in manufacturing or process engineering.
• Strong background in regulated industries and complex product/process standards preferred.
• Proficiency in CAD tools (AutoCAD, Solid Works) and data‑driven analysis for process improvement.
• Familiarity with ERP systems, ISO‑9001 and exposure to VDA or IATF standards.
• Experience with ASTM or FMVSS
  302 testing a plus.
• Exceptional communication and problem‑solving skills with a collaborative, proactive mindset.
• Ability to travel up to 20% for supplier visits, audits and multi‑site initiatives.

• Health & Wellness:
  Affordable medical, dental and vision insurance plans, including a global healthcare option for qualified participants.
• Retire: 401(k) with company match, fully vested from day one.
• Paid Time Off:
  Competitive PTO—3 weeks of vacation plus 9 company paid holidays.
• On‑Site Medical Clinics:
  Free for you and covered dependents.
• Teladoc: 24/7 access with no copay.
• Professional Development:
  Tuition reimbursement, professional development assistance and career growth opportunities.
• Discounts:
  Enjoy discounts with HSM partners, including Dollywood Parks & Resort, Verizon Wireless and more.

• Seniority level:
  Mid‑Senior level
• Employment type:
  
  Full‑time
• Job function:
  Manufacturing
• Industries:
  Industrial Machinery Manufacturing
• Location:
  
  Hickory, NC

At HSM, we believe that our diversity creates a productive workplace. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectionate or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.