Process Engineer

Process Engineer - Plastics ExtrusionsPosition OverviewWe are seeking a Process Engineer to optimize and support plastic manufacturing operations. The role focuses on improving production efficiency, ensuring product quality, and scaling processes for safety and cost-effectiveness. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in manufacturing and plastics processing, with a strong emphasis on process development, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement across extrusion and downstream operations.

Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop, document, and optimize manufacturing processes for plastic products to improve yield, reduce cycle time, and lower costs.

Lead root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions for production issues related to materials, equipment, and process variables.

Collaborate with R D, quality, maintenance, and production teams to scale new products from prototype to full-scale manufacturing.

Design and specify tooling, extrusion dies, and process equipment requirements in partnership with vendors and internal stakeholders.

Conduct trials, process capability studies, and validation activities; establish standard operating procedures and work instructions.

Train production personnel on best practices, process controls, and safety standards to ensure consistent product quality.

Monitor production metrics and lead continuous improvement initiatives (Kaizen, Six Sigma) to achieve performance targets.

Manage material qualification and approval for plastic resins and additives; optimize formulations and process settings for consistent performance.

Utilize CAD/AutoCAD models to review and improve tooling, fixtures, and die designs where applicable.

Support cost-reduction projects, including energy efficiency, scrap reduction, and throughput improvements.

QualificationsBachelors degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Plastics Engineering, or related engineering field, or equivalent experience.3+ years of hands-on experience in manufacturing with specific experience in plastics processing (extrusion preferred).Proven experience with plastic extrusion processes and extrusion die design; familiarity with plastic extrusions and downstream finishing processes.

Strong understanding of plastic resins, material properties, and how they affect processing and product performance.

Proficiency with CAD and AutoCAD for reviewing tooling and die designs; ability to communicate technical drawings to vendors and shop personnel.

Demonstrated problem-solving skills, including root-cause analysis and structured continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, Lean).Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills to work with production, quality, and engineering teams.

Experience with process documentation, SOPs, and statistical process control (SPC).

Preferred certifications:

Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, or relevant plastics processing certifications.