Process Engineer

Process Engineer – Paint / E-Coat Systems

Salina, KS

Great Plains Manufacturing is seeking an E-Coat Paint Process Engineer to join our Paint department at the new Construction Equipment facility in Salina, KS.

This position typically works Monday through Thursday from 5:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

• Develop, monitor, and optimize E-Coat process parameters (bath chemistry, voltage, temperature, pH, conductivity, film build).
• Ensure stable operation of pre-treatment, electrocoating, rinsing, and curing processes.
• Analyze process data and implement corrective actions to improve quality.
• Investigate and resolve coating defects (e.g., poor film build, craters, blistering, edge pullback, corrosion failures).
• Work closely with Quality teams to meet customer and regulatory requirements.
• Support internal and external audits related to coating processes.
• Support commissioning, maintenance, and upgrades of E-coat systems, including rectifiers, tanks, ultrafiltration (UF), waste treatment center, reverse osmosis (RO) water generation system and ovens.
• Collaborate with Maintenance and Engineering teams to improve equipment reliability and uptime.
• Support Maintenance and Management in defining preventive maintenance requirements and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Monitor and improve operations of Waste Water Treatment Center and RO water generation system.
• Ensure proper preventative maintenance is performed on a regular basis for both systems.
• Work with chemical suppliers to manage bath chemistry, additives, and replenishment strategies.
• Ensure proper Waste Treatment Center and RO water generation systems chemical products are used and their inventory levels meet usage requirements.
• Support trials and validation of new coatings, chemicals, and process changes.
• Review technical data sheets and ensure proper material usage.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations (e.g., chemical handling, wastewater, VOC control).
• Promote safe work practices and support environmental sustainability initiatives.
• Create and maintain process documentation, control plans, and work instructions.
• Train operators and technicians on E-coat process fundamentals and best practices.
• Other duties may be assigned that require other qualifications, physical demands, and/or work environment.
• Follow all Great Plains policies and OSHA safety regulations and wears prescribed safety and protective equipment.

• Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or similar relevant degree from a 4-year college or university; four years’ related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Strong understanding of Paint Technology, E-Coat Chemistry and Electrochemical Principles
• Hands-on experience with electrocoating lines, pretreatment systems, and curing ovens
• Familiarity with SPC, PFMEA, control plans, and quality systems
• Proficiency in data analysis and manufacturing KPIs
• Outstanding/strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Effective communication and cross-functional collaboration
• Experience with automation, PLCs, or MES systems
• Excellent communication skills in order to respond to inquiries from customers, regulatory agencies, or the business community