Position: Plastics Process Engineering Manager
Reports To: Operations Manager
Overview:The Plastics Process Engineering Manager is responsible for leading the process engineering function and directly supervising the Plastics Molding Engineer and Mold Technicians in the development, optimization, and continuous improvement of blow-molding manufacturing processes.
This role ensures efficient production, high product quality, cost reduction, and compliance with safety and environmental standards. The manager collaborates closely with manufacturing, quality, maintenance, tooling, and product development teams to support new product launches and improve existing processes.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead, manage, and develop the process engineering team, including the Plastics Molding Engineer and Mold Technicians.
- Develop, implement, document, and optimize manufacturing processes for plastic injection molding, extrusion blow molding, thermoforming, or other plastic processing technologies.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality, scrap reduction, and cycle time improvements.
- Develop documentation processes to capture process learning.
- Support new product introductions by developing robust manufacturing processes.
- Troubleshoot complex processing issues and implement corrective actions.
- Establish and maintain process documentation, including work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and process specifications.
- Collaborate with blow mold technicians to improve mold and tool performance.
- Develop process validation protocols and oversee process qualification activities.
- Manage molding equipment upgrades, and capital investments.
- Work closely with maintenance to improve equipment reliability and preventive maintenance strategies.
- Manage and develop the department's Plastics Molding Engineer and molding technicians to ensure the department skill base continues to grow.
- Promote a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
Qualifications: - Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Plastics, Chemical, or Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years' experience in plastics manufacturing.
- Demonstrated engineering leadership experience, including supervising, coaching, and developing engineers and technical manufacturing employees.
- Strong knowledge of plastic processing technologies, including blow molding and injection molding.
- Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
- Creative and innovated problem-solving skills.
- Excellent project management and communication abilities.
- Self starter and able to work independently.
- Able to work in a multi-cultural environment.
- Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement experience.
Compensation & Benefits:The Fountainhead Group offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, along with comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, retirement savings, and paid time off.
