Manufacturing Process Technician

Job Description

Job Description

WHAT YOU WILL DO

The Process Engineer Tech is responsible for improving the performance, efficiency, and reliability of manufacturing processes within our production facility. This role focuses on driving operational excellence through continuous improvement initiatives, performance analysis, loss elimination, and process optimization. Working cross-functionally with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, Packaging, R&D, and Continuous Improvement teams, this position serves as a key change agent in delivering sustainable productivity gains and supporting world-class manufacturing practices.

As an entry-level engineering professional, the Process Engineer Tech will analyze production performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and implement solutions that reduce downtime, improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), minimize waste, and lower operating costs while maintaining product quality and food safety standards.

Additional responsibilities include:

• Analyze manufacturing performance data and identify opportunities to improve OEE, reduce scrap, and increase line efficiency.

• Lead and support root cause investigations related to process losses, downtime, quality defects, and productivity challenges.

• Develop and execute action plans that drive sustainable improvements in manufacturing performance.

• Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, Packaging, and R&D teams to implement process improvements and productivity initiatives.

• Utilize continuous improvement tools such as 5S, Root Cause Analysis, PDCA, Kaizen, Centerlining, Statistical Process Control, and Visual Standards to improve operational performance.

• Create and maintain technical documentation, reports, process standards, and performance dashboards.

• Collect, interpret, and communicate manufacturing data to support business decisions and process optimization efforts.

• Support commissioning, validation, and startup activities for new equipment, packaging systems, and process technologies.

• Lead and coordinate production line trials associated with new products, packaging materials, and equipment enhancements.

• Partner with equipment suppliers and maintenance teams to improve equipment capability, reliability, and overall system performance.

• Develop and standardize best practices that improve quality, efficiency, and process consistency.

• Serve as a trainer and coach for problem-solving methodologies and continuous improvement tools.

• Build operational capability through hands-on employee training and technical support.

• Support loss elimination efforts by identifying, quantifying, prioritizing, and eliminating process inefficiencies.

• Apply statistical analysis and process capability tools to evaluate performance trends and drive process improvements.

• Promote a culture of employee engagement, ownership, and continuous improvement.

• Support cross-functional improvement projects and strategic operational initiatives.

• Maintain compliance with all safety, food safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Operations Management, or a related field preferred; equivalent manufacturing experience will also be considered.

• 3-5 years of experience in a manufacturing, production, or value stream environment preferred.

• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, TPM, Continuous Improvement, or Autonomous Maintenance principles preferred.

• Exposure to Six Sigma methodologies; Green Belt certification or training is preferred.

• Understanding of manufacturing performance metrics including OEE, downtime analysis, scrap reduction, and productivity measurements.

• Experience supporting root cause analysis and implementation of corrective actions.

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and drive actionable improvements.

• Knowledge of statistical analysis tools and process capability concepts preferred.

• Strong computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.

• Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to collaborate across multiple departments and levels of the organization.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining focus on operational objectives.

• Strong organizational and project management skills.

• Ability to influence others and successfully lead initiatives without direct authority.

• Experience working in a World Class Manufacturing, Lean, TPM, Six Sigma, or High-Performance Work Systems environment is strongly preferred.

• Ability to work flexible hours, including off-shifts and weekends as business needs require.

• Ability to travel occasionally for training, project support, or best-practice sharing opportunities.

Since 1971, FurstStaffing has been servicing two clients: companies seeking talent and individuals seeking employment or a career change.

FurstStaffing provides project (assignments), to-hire, and direct placement opportunities in a variety of industries for entry-mid level office and industrial careers. FurstProfessionals focuses on mid-management and technical careers in fields such as HR, IT, Financial, Engineering, Maintenance Mechanics, Sales, etc. FurstExecutiveSolutions is a retained executive search organization which focuses on the VP, C, and BOD level careers. FurstStrategies provides HR Consulting and Talent Transition Services.

We are family-owned and certified as a WBENC business. Headquartered in Rockford, IL, and offices in Stockton, IL and Darlington, WI.

Company Description

Since 1971, FurstStaffing has been servicing two clients: companies seeking talent and individuals seeking employment or a career change. \r\n\r\nFurstStaffing provides project (assignments), to-hire, and direct placement opportunities in a variety of industries for entry-mid level office and industrial careers. FurstProfessionals focuses on mid-management and technical careers in fields such as HR, IT, Financial, Engineering, Maintenance Mechanics, Sales, etc. FurstExecutiveSolutions is a retained executive search organization which focuses on the VP, C, and BOD level careers. FurstStrategies provides HR Consulting and Talent Transition Services. \r\n\r\nWe are family-owned and certified as a WBENC business. Headquartered in Rockford, IL, and offices in Stockton, IL and Darlington, WI.