Process Engineering Senior

Akron Polymers

Full time

Polymer Engineering Pilot Center (PEPC) . PEPC provides advanced research and testing technologies for product and process development, continuing to leverage Firestone's rich industry heritage to provide outstanding product quality and develop polymers for next-generation applications. The plant is located on a 35-acre site and produces MT quantities of baled products for testing. Our polymer engineering facilities in Akron work closely with Bridgestone's global facilities to develop the latest in tire polymer technologies. We are a part of the Akron Complex and participate in all Akron-based community activities.

Business Unit

BSA - Product Development

Engineering & Science

The Senior Process Engineer, based in Akron Ohio, will support broader product and process development initiatives. This role bridges pilot-scale innovation and manufacturing readiness by working with multiple teams to scale new polymer and process technologies to production. This position will also directly support the design, commissioning, and operation of a new pilot-scale distillation process.

The successful candidate will be self motivated, collaborative, and capable of prioritizing work across multiple projects. They must be comfortable translating new chemistries into scaleable, reliable processes while working closely with cross-functional teams to deliver both near-term execution and long-term capability. This position requires a strong plant presence, with an expectation of being onsite at least 4 days per week. A local candidate is preferred but relocation assistance may be available for the right candidate.

Collaborate with external engineering firms and internal partners to scope, design, and specify process equipment

Support equipment installation, commissioning, and start up activities

Support the scale-up of new polymer chemistries and process technologies from laboratory towards commercial readiness

Facilitate and oversee production trials for new polymer products and process technologies in a manufacturing environment

Troubleshoot process challenges using engineering fundamentals and statistical analysis of available process data

Prepare and deliver clear project updates and technical presentations to leadership and senior management

Work effectively with operations and production personnel, maintenance teams, technicians, vendors, contractors, and other engineers to execute responsibilities

The Senior Process Engineer will leverage their expertise as part of Product Development, which plays a critical role in scaling and commercializing new polymer and process technologies at the Akron Polymer Engineering Pilot Center and in the Firestone Polymers Lake Charles Plant. This includes contribution to the design and implementation of new distillation infrastructure and the support of several global development teams.

Strong organizational, prioritization, and project management skills

A strong background in chemical engineering, process optimization, and equipment/infrastructure implementation

Proficiency with statistical analysis and engineering tools such as PI, Minitab, Aspen, or similar software

Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with colleagues and management across a wide range of technical backgrounds

Familiarity with hydrocarbon processing and distillation, polymer chemistry, and polymer science

Candidates who excel in this role will:

Proactively identify improvement opportunities that enhance safety, quality, and process capability

Collaborate effectively across multiple functions by listening, engaging objectively, and working toward shared business goals related to quality, product performance, and value

Thrive in an environment that blends pilot-scale innovation and real-world manufacturing scenarios

Communicate complex technical concepts in a clear, concise, and visual manner

This position requires a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in chemical or polymer engineering or a closely related discipline. Experience in production or process engineering within a chemical PSM plant or a refinery environment is preferred.

We believe people can only provide superior service and quality to others when they feel safe bringing their chosen version of themselves to work. At Bridgestone, what really matters is to foster co-creation opportunities and empowering you to be creative and curious to make mobility safer, more efficient, and more sustainable for future generations. Whatever role you fill, when you represent Bridgestone, you are a valued teammate, and part of our larger mission to “Serve Society with Superior Quality”, for that, we offer you more than just a competitive compensation; The opportunity to develop and grow, through training and regular mentorship.

It is our policy to consider all individuals for employment based on their unique merit and without regard to age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

Temporary work authorization or the need for sponsorship may disqualify you from employment.

S. subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, the world’s largest tire and rubber company. Bridgestone Americas and its subsidiaries develop, manufacture and market a wide range of Bridgestone, Firestone and associate brand tires to address the needs of a broad range of customers, including consumers, automotive and commercial vehicle original equipment manufacturers, and those in the agricultural, forestry and mining industries. The companies are also engaged in retreading operations throughout the Western Hemisphere and produce air springs, roofing materials, and industrial fibers and textiles. The Bridgestone Americas family of companies also operates the world’s largest chain of automotive tire and service centers. Guided by its global corporate social responsibility (CSR), commitment Our Way to Serve, Bridgestone embraces its responsibility as a global leader by striving to improve the way people move, live, work and play.