Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering or Materials Science preferred
Minimum five years of experience in aluminum processing
Experience with statistical methodologies for data acquisition and root cause analysis
Proven track record of leading technical projects in manufacturing
Strong collaborative skills across multiple manufacturing facilities
Ability to manage independent projects and work with minimal supervision
Responsibilities
Lead Research & Development projects, ensuring timely completion
Collaborate with cross-functional teams on prioritized tasks
Support process analysis and improvement initiatives at manufacturing plants
Utilize data for sustainable improvements in product control
Design and analyze experiments with processing equipment
Research improvements in aluminum materials and processes
Communicate project status through reports and presentations
Benefits
Engagement with a collaborative Advanced Engineering team
Opportunities for technical growth within Kaiser Aluminum
Involvement in innovative projects impacting manufacturing processes
Exposure to diverse manufacturing environments and practices
A balanced work environment with a mix of office and plant functions
Full Job Description
The Process Development Engineer will work on and lead identified priority projects while also collaborating with our manufacturing sites on process and product improvement initiatives, driving sustained changes via data driven analysis. With the technical resources in the Kaiser Aluminum extrusion facilities, this individual will be expected to support and strongly collaborate with sites to foster the technical competencies and experiences, while leveraging best practices across the enterprise.
What you will work on:
Develop, define, and complete on a timely basis the assigned Research & Development projects
Work in cross-functional teams, interacting with the Advanced Engineering team and Kaiser plant based resources, collaborating on and completing prioritized tasks and initiatives
Collaborating with plants, supporting process analysis and improvement initiatives
Utilize data to drive fact-based, sustainable improvements in process and product control throughout Kaiser's facilities
Develop and apply technical understanding of aluminum alloy processing, including casting, rolling, extrusion, drawing, thermal processing, and destructive and nondestructive testing
Design experiments using research and production processing equipment. Analyze experimental results and make recommendations based on analysis
Researching new and existing aluminum materials and/or processes for potential improvements to Kaiser's products and processes
Support the analysis of product issues/changes through various metallographic techniques
Communicate project status and technical findings clearly through reports, presentations, and stakeholder updates
Write technical reports summarizing work as well as presentations to peers on progress of projects
Evaluate equipment designs and capabilities, recommend upgrades, and prepare technical specifications for equipment and testing
Lead and/or contribute to Housekeeping and 5S initiatives through active involvement within the Advanced Engineering team
Support safety initiatives through active involvement in the safety process
What you will bring to the position:
Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering or Materials Science is preferred. Candidates with a bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or Mechanical Engineering or another relevant engineering field and applicable industry experience will also be considered.
Minimum five (5) years of experience in aluminum processing preferred.
5+ years process engineering experience in heavy industry, preferably in metals.
Experience in utilizing statistical methodologies for data acquisition, root cause analysis, process control and capability analysis.
Experience leading technical projects in a manufacturing environment.
Ability to collaborate across multiple manufacturing facilities
Ability to manage projects independently, including at remote locations
Ability to work with limited supervision while meeting goals
Self-sufficient in data acquisition, analysis, and report writing
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work effectively in team environments
Demonstrate curiosity and a willingness to learn through engagement with plant personnel and available company resources
Bring energy, discipline, and a collaborative approach to building strong working relationships
Be organized, data-driven, and adaptable in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
Demonstrate strong interpersonal and business partnering skills across all levels of the organization
Be willing to work flexible hours as needed
Work environment in the plant:
Approximately 60% of the role is performed in an office environment and 40% in plant environments, including travel to other Kaiser facilities. The role involves exposure to operating machinery and standard manufacturing conditions. Travel requirements vary based on project activity.
No third-party candidate submissions are being accepted at this time for this opening.
