JOB SUMMARYReporting 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.
This position is assigned to and provides engineering guidance and support on our 2nd shift work schedule. The 2nd shift Production team works Monday to Friday from 2:45 PM to 11:15 PM. The Manufacturing Process Engineer would support the 2nd shift Production team during those work hours.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSProcess 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).
Work Authorization RequirementAll 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.
