Senior Process Engineer

GENERAL FUNCTION:

Develops and implements processing / production methods and controls to meet quality standards in the most cost-efficient manner. Investigates and resolves processing / production issues in real time where possible and retroactively where necessary. Actively develops, recommends, and implements improvements and/or modifications to increase efficiency, optimize yield, and minimize the occurrence of off spec material. Monitors assigned operations to assure compliance with approved methods and quality standards. Applies experience to error proof practices and procedures while introducing techniques to make operator tasks easier and less prone to errors.

RESPONSIBLITIES:

Coordinates all process / production engineering activities and reviews engineering issues with Process Engineer. Provides guidance/coaching to Process Engineers when and where applicable.

• Coordinates and optimizes operations for standard compounds / products and reviews current methods.
• Reviews daily off grade reports and assists with technical issues.
• Coordinates and runs product trials and establishes process standards
• Assists with troubleshooting and resolving issues at customer site when required
• Answers customer complaints and implements corrective action when necessary to resolve issues.
• Serves a resource for the establishment, training, and evaluation of SOPs
• Conducts training and development activities for operating personnel as required
• Continuously drives increases in efficiency, introduces methods to reduce b-grade generation, and promotes practices to achieve highest yield.
• Apply Leader Standard Work principles to maintain process discipline, drive continuous improvement, and support team accountability.
• Fervent advocate of the use of technology such as digitization and automation to continuously modernize manufacturing operations. Researches and recommends solutions that will improve safety, working conditions, efficiency, quality.
• Lead FMEA execution and development of Control Plans as necessary.
• Occasionally interface with customers on troubleshooting processing issues at customer facility.
• Performs additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY

• Position acts as back-up to the Quality Manager for process / production related issues and complaint resolution activities.
• Leads technology wide projects: Examples; establishing process standards (FCM, twin screw, special operations, automation, etc.), championing process / production improvements, vendor liaising, serve as manufacturing liaise to technical platforms/new product development, etc.

QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES:

• BS or MS in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Industrial Engineering or related discipline.
• Good understanding of the products, material science and equipment involved in manufacturing.
• Must be able to work in a team environment.
• Ability to work in and support a QMS environment.
• Knowledge in thermoplastics, polymer blends, and polymer compounding preferred.
• 6-8 years of process engineering experience required.
• Work requires the application of a variety of procedures, policies, and/or precedents used in combination. Frequently, the application of multiple technical activities are employed; analytic ability and inductive thinking are required.
• Must be able to understand and creatively solve processing / production problems.
• Must be able to develop new ways to approach problems and use existing mechanical equipment in more creative ways.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel, and knowledge in or ability to quickly learn other computer applications.
• Proficiency in Root Cause Analysis (RCA) methodologies; certification preferred
• Hold Six Sigma Black Belt certification (or commit to obtain within two years) and demonstrate practice and proficiency in data analysis, statistical tools (performing DOEs, etc.) toward the objective of process / production optimization

Essential Physical Requirements of the Job:

• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards
• Able to climb ladders/stairs to reach all plant equipment.

This description is a summary of principal responsibilities and is not intended to include all duties that may be assigned.

Teknor Apex is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any protected status under state or federal laws. Must be 18 years of age or older to work at Teknor Apex.