Manufacturing Process Engineer

"We connect science to life for a better future."

With 50,000 patents, 20,000 employees and 58 locations worldwide, LG Chem is one of the largest science and chemical companies in the world. With its rapid growth, LG Chem endeavors to become a 'Global Top 5 Chemical Company' with a balanced business portfolio that has a competitive advantage across the globe, including business divisions in petrochemicals, advanced materials, life sciences, and a subsidiary specializing in batteries.

LG Chem is a leading chemical company in Korea that has continuously achieved growth through relentless challenges and innovation since its establishment in 1947. From the infrangible facial cream lid to the world's most advanced batteries, LG Chem has turned dreams into reality and enriched our lives for 70 years. Building upon a balanced and globally competitive business portfolio, LG Chem manufactures a wide range of products from high-value added petrochemicals to renewable plastics, specializing in cutting-edge electronic and battery materials such as cathodes, as well as drugs and vaccines to deliver differentiated solutions for its customers.

Beyond a chemical company, LG Chem will become a leading science-oriented corporation that creates value for our customers and is committed to reaching carbon-neutral growth by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050 by managing the impacts of climate change and making positive contributions to society through renewable energy and responsible supply chains.

JOB SUMMARY

Reporting to the Engineering Manager, the Manufacturing Process Engineer plays a critical technical role in ensuring stable, efficient, and high-quality ABS compounding operations at LG Chem's Ravenna facility. This position provides hands-on engineering support for twin-screw extrusion, mixing, blending, and recipe execution, with a strong focus on process optimization, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement in a 24/5 manufacturing environment. This role works closely with Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Logistics teams to improve process capability, reduce variability, and support safe, efficient manufacturing across all shifts.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Process Engineering & Technical Ownership

• Provide day-to-day engineering ownership of ABS compounding and twin-screw extrusion processes, including parameter optimization, material consistency, and equipment performance.
• Lead troubleshooting and support scale-up/transfer of new or modified formulations from R&D into stable, full-rate production.

Continuous Improvement & Performance

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to improve yield, throughput, OEE, and energy efficiency while reducing scrap, rework, and downtime.
• Use process data, trials, and validation activities to identify root causes and improve long-term process capability and product performance.

Production Support & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Production, Scheduling, Quality, and Maintenance to ensure processes are executable, stable, and aligned with production plans across all shifts.
• Support issue resolution, equipment diagnostics, and new or modified equipment commissioning to maintain reliable operations.

Documentation, Systems & Compliance

• Develop and maintain accurate process documentation, specifications, and ERP master data to support consistent production and change control.
• Ensure compliance with ISO/IATF standards, GMP requirements, and EHS practices through disciplined documentation and safe work execution.

Project & Business Support

• Support capital projects and cost-reduction initiatives related to process efficiency, scrap reduction, and energy usage.
• Prepare and communicate technical updates and project results to plant leadership, customers, and visitors while upholding LG Chem's Jeong-Do Management principles.

SKILLS / COMPETENCIES:

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Chemical, Mechanical, Manufacturing, Polymer, Plastics Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.

Experience

• 2+ years of process engineering or manufacturing experience in a plastics environment, such as:
• Polymer compounding
• Extrusion (twin-screw strongly preferred)
• Injection or compression molding
• Hands-on experience troubleshooting manufacturing processes in a production environment.

Technical Skills

• Working knowledge of polymer materials, processing fundamentals, and extrusion technology.
• Experience analyzing process data and implementing practical improvements.
• Familiarity with ERP, QMS, and manufacturing systems (SAP preferred).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience with ABS or engineering thermoplastics.
• Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma training or project experience.
• Experience supporting off-shift manufacturing operations.
• Familiarity with process validation concepts (IQ/OQ/PQ).
• Experience supporting capital equipment projects.
• Ability to create or interpret 3D models (desired, not required).
• Experience leading capital equipment projects from concept through commissioning.
• Experience developing manufacturing equipment layouts and facility expansion plans.
• Experience working with equipment suppliers on specification development, procurement, installation, and startup activities.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and hands-on manufacturing equipment troubleshooting skills.
• Experience supporting extrusion line installations or major manufacturing equipment expansions preferred.

Work Authorization Requirement

All applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time, permanent basis. This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship now or in the future.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.