Process Engineer

The Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and maintaining manufacturing processes for custom plastic products. This role focuses on improving production efficiency, product quality, safety, and cost performance while supporting new product launches and continuous improvement initiatives. The Process Engineer works closely with production, quality, maintenance, tooling, and customer teams to ensure manufacturing processes consistently meet customer specifications and business objectives.

• Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for plastic injection molding, extrusion, thermoforming, blow molding, or other custom plastics operations
• Analyze production data and identify opportunities to improve cycle times, reduce scrap, and increase overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)
• Troubleshoot process-related issues and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and quality defects
• Establish and maintain process documentation, including work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), process parameters, and validation records
• Support new product introductions by developing manufacturing processes, conducting trials, and validating production readiness
• Collaborate with tooling, maintenance, and production teams to improve equipment performance and reliability
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) for manufacturing and quality issues
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence methodologies
• Monitor and optimize material usage to reduce waste and improve cost efficiency
• Assist in equipment selection, installation, commissioning, and process qualification activities
• Ensure compliance with customer requirements, quality standards, and safety regulations
• Participate in customer meetings and support technical discussions related to manufacturing processes and product requirements
• Train production personnel on process controls, best practices, and process improvements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Plastics Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field preferred
• Equivalent combination of education and relevant manufacturing experience may be considered

• 3+ years of process engineering experience in a plastics manufacturing environment
• Experience with custom plastic manufacturing processes such as injection molding, extrusion, thermoforming, rotational molding, or blow molding preferred
• Experience supporting new product development and process validation activities
• Strong understanding of plastics materials, processing techniques, and manufacturing principles
• Proficiency in troubleshooting manufacturing processes and identifying root causes of defects
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentations
• Experience with statistical process control (SPC), process capability studies, and quality systems
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and manufacturing software systems

• Experience in a custom or high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment
• Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent certification
• Experience with automation, robotics, or advanced manufacturing technologies
• Familiarity with ISO 9001, IATF 16949, or other quality management systems

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment and spend extended periods on the production floor
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE)