Engineer - SMC Compounding

Job Description

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

The SMC Process Engineer is responsible for supporting and improving the manufacturing processes associated with Sheet Molding Compound (SMC) production, including raw material handling, mixing, compounding, and molding operations.

This position applies engineering principles to improve product quality, process efficiency, equipment performance, and operational reliability. The Engineer works closely with Production, Maintenance, Quality, and Engineering teams to support continuous improvement initiatives, product development activities, process optimization, and safe manufacturing operations.

This position is designed for an engineer with a strong technical foundation who demonstrates the ability to develop expertise in SMC manufacturing processes through hands-on training and mentorship.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Monitor production quality and process performance to ensure compliance with established specifications and standards.
• Analyze manufacturing data and process trends to identify opportunities for improvements in quality, productivity, yield, and waste reduction.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, process capability, productivity, and cost reduction.
• Support the development, implementation, and optimization of manufacturing processes and process control strategies.
• Collaborate with Production, Maintenance, Quality, and Engineering teams to troubleshoot process issues and implement corrective actions.
• Assist in new product development, process scale-up, product commercialization, and technology transfer activities.
• Participate in process validation, qualification, and process improvement projects.
• Evaluate existing manufacturing processes and recommend improvements to increase efficiency, consistency, and product quality.
• Support implementation and maintenance of process documentation, work instructions, operating procedures, and engineering standards.
• Participate in process risk assessments and support implementation of corrective and preventive actions.
• Support departmental safety initiatives and promote safe operating practices throughout the facility.
• Ensure manufacturing activities comply with applicable company policies, environmental requirements, operating permits, and regulatory requirements.
• Support unloading and storage activities for raw materials and assist with tank farm operations as required.
• Assist in coordinating raw material logistics, including tank farm and railcar operations.
• Participate in Six Sigma, Kaizen, Lean Manufacturing, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assist in equipment evaluations, capital improvement projects, equipment installations, and process start-up activities.
• Support root cause investigations related to product quality issues, process deviations, customer complaints, and manufacturing concerns.
• Develop technical reports and present findings and recommendations to management.
• Provide technical support and training to operations personnel as needed.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Chemical engineering principles and manufacturing processes.
• Process improvement methodologies and problem-solving techniques.
• Quality systems and manufacturing controls.
• Industrial safety and environmental practices.

ABILITY TO/TRAINING REQUIREMENTS:

• Must understand and follow all departmental safety rules.
• Understand Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
• Learn and apply ISO requirements applicable to the position.
• Learn SMC manufacturing processes, raw materials, equipment, and operating procedures.
• Learn applicable environmental, safety, and regulatory requirements.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

• Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering preferred; Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related Engineering discipline considered.
• Minimum two (2) years of manufacturing, process engineering, chemical processing, or related industrial experience.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong mathematical and technical aptitude.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams.

Preferred:

• Experience with thermoset composites, polymer processing, resin systems, compounding operations, or chemical manufacturing.
• Exposure to Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with process validation, process control, and manufacturing optimization.
• Experience working in a regulated manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of statistical analysis and data-driven decision making.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Physical Demands:

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching.
• Use of hands for handling, grasping, and manipulating materials and tools.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.

Working Conditions:

• Work performed in both office and manufacturing environments
• Exposure to noise, machinery, and varying temperature.