Process Engineer

Process Engineer

The Process Engineer is responsible for developing, improving, and sustaining manufacturing processes that support safe, reliable, cost-effective, and high-quality plant operations. This role applies engineering and scientific principles to troubleshoot complex issues, optimize process capability and yield, lead capital and continuous improvement projects, and support the successful transition of new products and processes into full-scale production. The Process Engineer partners cross-functionally with production, quality, maintenance, product development, customers, and other stakeholders to deliver measurable and sustainable results.

Key Focus Areas

• Process Engineering & Manufacturing Support (50%)
• Champion safe process design and operation by translating safety expectations, risk awareness, and accountability into process improvements that support a safer work environment.
• Provide technical and manufacturing support for existing and new products, processes, formulas, and equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex manufacturing issues using methodical, data-driven analysis and sound engineering judgment.
• Maximize process efficiency, capability, yield, and reliability while maintaining product quality and customer satisfaction.
• Analyze process data, trends, and performance indicators to identify root causes, address variation, and sustain operating improvements.
• Recommend and implement enhancements to existing product lines, manufacturing methods, equipment, and operating procedures.
• Collaborate with production management and plant personnel to maintain a safe, stable, and high-performing production environment.
• Coordinate and train production personnel on trials, new products, process changes, and updated procedures.

Continuous Improvement, Quality & Cost Optimization (30%)

• Identify, prioritize, and execute opportunities that reduce manufacturing cost, improve quality, eliminate waste, and strengthen process performance.
• Lead and support Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other continuous improvement initiatives, using a structured framework to standardize systems and promote cost efficiency.
• Conduct process capability studies, statistical process control analysis, design of experiments, and other technical evaluations to validate solutions and improve control.
• Lead or coordinate cross-functional teams focused on improving products, processes, systems, and operating results.
• Monitor improvement results, confirm measurable impact, and establish controls that sustain gains over time.
• Interface with customers and internal partners to investigate complaints, resolve technical concerns, and deliver value-added solutions.

Projects, Innovation & Organizational Collaboration (20%)

• Develop and implement new manufacturing processes using appropriate technology to support innovation, product development, and business needs.
• Understand customer and product requirements and translate them into functional product and process designs.
• Manage process improvement and capital projects from concept through implementation, including scope, justification, planning, budget, execution, startup, and results validation.
• Partner with product development teams to support trials and the transition from development to full-scale production.
• Communicate project status, risks, recommendations, and results effectively to production personnel, technical partners, customers, and leadership.
• Contribute engineering insight to long-term plant, equipment, and facilities planning initiatives.

Key Attributes & Strengths

• Analytical and methodical problem-solver who uses data to identify root causes and implement practical solutions
• Strong project leadership and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities from concept through completion
• Collaborative communicator who can engage effectively with customers, leadership, technical teams, and production personnel
• Continuous improvement mindset focused on safety, quality, cost, efficiency, and sustainable results
• Business acumen in cost-benefit analysis, project justification, and strategic and tactical planning
• Adaptable and hands-on, with the ability to work effectively in a dynamic manufacturing environment
• Effective facilitator and presenter who can translate technical information into clear recommendations and action plans

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or a science-related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in process engineering, manufacturing engineering, or product development preferred; individuals with less experience may be considered based on demonstrated capability.
• Demonstrated ability to apply engineering and scientific principles to solve manufacturing problems and drive improvements.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing environments, processes, procedures, and quality expectations.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing multiple technical or improvement projects simultaneously.
• Strong written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to perform cost-benefit analysis and support project planning, prioritization, and execution.
• Willingness to travel as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing technical or capital projects, including budget development, planning, implementation, and startup.
• Six Sigma Green Belt certification or higher and proficiency with Minitab or comparable statistical analysis software.
• Working knowledge of Lean principles, Kaizen methodology, and structured continuous improvement systems.
• Experience with coating processes, coating formulas, or coating equipment.
• Experience conducting design of experiments (DOE), process capability analysis, and statistical process control (SPC).

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.