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 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 wear 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

At Great Plains Manufacturing, our people drive our success, making us an exceptional place to work and thrive. If you're self-motivated, passionate about achieving goals, and value collaboration, we encourage you to apply to join our dynamic team. With over 45 years of experience as a leading manufacturer of agricultural, farm, and landscaping equipment in Central Kansas, we are proud to be part of the Kubota organization.

We have recently expanded with our new construction equipment division. With over 2,300 dedicated professionals, Great Plains Manufacturing is committed to fostering innovation and supporting your professional growth. Join our team and be part of our exciting journey! Explore opportunities on our Careers page at