Illinois Tool Works

Process Engineer

Illinois Tool Works$90K — $110K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Industrial, Materials/Polymer Engineering or related field.
  • 3+ years in manufacturing/process engineering, preferably with plastics films/PVC/coating/lamination.
  • Proficiency in PFMEA, Control Plans, Process Flows, SPC/DOE, and data analysis tools like Excel/BI.
  • Demonstrated Continuous Improvement mindset with Lean/Six Sigma tools experience.
  • Hands-on troubleshooting and optimization capabilities.

Responsibilities

  • Own setup, centerlining, and optimization for film manufacturing processes.
  • Create and maintain process documentation including PFMEAs and Control Plans.
  • Stabilize gauge/thickness and reduce scrap using SPC/DOE methodologies.
  • Lead studies on equipment capability and manage line conditions.
  • Analyze OEE and scrap data to prioritize Lean improvement projects.
  • Prepare and present metrics dashboards to leadership for operational improvements.
  • Plan and run structured line trials for new materials and ensure smooth transitions to production.

Benefits

  • Supportive team environment with cross-functional collaboration.
  • Opportunities for professional development and continuous improvement projects.
  • Engagement in advanced manufacturing practices and processes.
  • Access to industry-specific training and resources.
  • Travel opportunities to support operations at multiple facilities.
Full Job Description
Job Description:

Position Summary

The Process Engineer strengthens process capability and throughput across film manufacturing operations (e.g., formulation/mixing, coating, embossing and slitting/finishing), with a focus on safety, quality, yield, and cost. You'll design and refine standard operating conditions/process optimizations built upon consistent statistical data analysis for continuous improvement projects and new product/process introductions. The role partners closely with Production, Quality, Maintenance, and R&D to implement robust controls (PFMEA, Control Plans, Process Flows) and deliver measurable OEE and scrap improvements. This position will be based in our Newburyport, MA plant but will also support the team in our Bloomfield, CT facility, with an expectation of about 30% travel to support the needs of both plants.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Process & Technical Excellence
  • Own setup, centerlining, and optimization for film coating/embossing, and converting/winding; define and maintain standard operating conditions and process windows.
  • Create/maintain PFMEAs, Control Plans, Process Flows, and operation sheets; ensure line documentation and change control are current and effective.
  • Apply SPC/DOE/CPK and structured troubleshooting to stabilize gauge/thickness, adhesion, optics, roll build, and winding performance; reduce variability and scrap.
  • Lead equipment capability studies and improvements to dies/air rings/web handling/coating heads, including line condition tracking and centerline management.


Continuous Improvement & Data Analytics
  • Analyze OEE, downtime, scrap, and material variance; prioritize and execute Lean projects that improve yield, throughput, and cost.
  • Prepare dashboards/metrics and present findings to leadership; standardize gains through SOPs, visual controls, and layered audits.
  • Support capital justifications with data-driven ROI for tooling, web handling, coating/lamination, winding, and automation enhancements.


New Product / Material Scale-Up & Change Management
  • Plan and run structured line trials for new film structures, coatings, laminations, and resin/material changes ; capture learnings into standard conditions.
  • Collaborate with R&D/Quality/Supply Chain to validate fitness-for-use, run DOE and capability checks, and ensure smooth ramp from pilot to production.
  • Implement preventive maintenance frameworks with Maintenance/CMMS to sustain capability and reduce chronic losses on critical assets.


Cross-Functional Leadership & Operational Support
  • Be a floor-forward engineer; work shoulder-to-shoulder with operators and techs to train, troubleshoot, and embed best practices and centerlines.
  • Partner with Quality on complaint response, root cause, and CAPA; with Supply Chain on resin/film inputs; and with all leaders to uphold safety and regulatory compliance.
  • Communicate clearly at shift handoffs; ensure documentation, work notes, and action registers are current, visible, and closed out on time.
  • Provide Customer-Back suggestions to improve quality, reduce scrap, and increase first-pass yield.


What Success Looks Like
  • Stable lines with tight gauge control, improved OEE, and scrap reduction.
  • Documented standard conditions and trained crews that hold the gains.
  • On-time, data-backed trials/scale-ups that meet cost and quality targets.


QUALIFICATIONS

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to perform this job successfully. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Industrial, Materials/Polymer Engineering (or related).
  • 3+ years in manufacturing/process engineering; plastics films/PVC/coating/lamination preferred.
  • Proficiency with PFMEA, Control Plans, Process Flows, SPC/DOE, and data analysis tools (e.g., Excel/BI).
  • Demonstrated CI mindset (Lean/Six Sigma tools) and hands-on troubleshooting ability.


Preferred
  • Experience in web coating/lamination, and converting/winding.
  • Familiarity with ITW's 80/20 and decentralized operating model.


Work Environment / Physical

Manufacturing environment requiring routine line-side presence; ability to stand/climb film towers; proper use of PPE; occasional off-shift support for startups/trials.

Compensation Information:

Competitive and commensurate with experience $90,000 - $110,000 per year

About Illinois Tool Works

ITW is an industrial manufacturing company that specializes in the fields of industrial machinery, engineering, operations, sales, marketing, finance, and accounting. It's in deep-sea oil rigs, aerospace technology, bridges and wind turbines, healthcare, the spaces in which they live and work, the cars they drive, and the mobile devices they rely on. It was founded in 1912 and headquartered in Glenview Nas, Illinois.

Illinois Tool Works Careers

Join the dynamic team at Illinois Tool Works (ITW), a global leader in diversified manufacturing, where innovation and excellence drive us forward. ITW offers unparalleled job opportunities, fostering a culture of growth and leadership in the industry.

Work You’ll Do

At Illinois Tool Works, you will be part of a professional community that thrives on creativity and innovation. Our employees are equipped with the skills needed to succeed and are provided with endless opportunities for professional growth. Engage in work that matters, with projects that transform industries and enhance futures.

Explore Career Paths

Whether you're seeking an internship, a graduate opportunity, or a seasoned professional position, ITW offers a range of career paths across various departments. Our team benefits from a supportive and diverse working environment where every member’s contribution is valued.

Innovate and Lead

Join a team where innovation leads to revolutionary solutions in industries worldwide. At ITW, you will work alongside industry experts to develop new ideas and strategies that keep us at the forefront of technological advancements. Your career at ITW will be marked by a continuous journey of growth and leadership.

Develop Your Skills

With ITW’s commitment to professional development and diversity training, you will enhance your skills through targeted training programs and workshops. These opportunities not only boost your career but also ensure you stay competitive in the job market.

Be Part of Our Culture

ITW is dedicated to building a culture that respects and embraces diversity, encourages innovation, and fosters leadership. Our team is our greatest asset, and we believe in providing them with the benefits and resources they need to succeed both professionally and personally.

Networking and Professional Growth

Expand your professional network through ITW’s global presence and collaborative work environment. Engage with professionals across different sectors, gaining insights that can lead to significant career advancements. Our networking events and professional groups help you connect with key industry leaders and peers.

Join Our Team

Search for open positions that match your skills and interests on the ITW Careers page. We are looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players who are ready to take their career to the next level.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest industry trends, company news, and career tips by following our careers blog. Personalize your experience by subscribing to job alert emails, tailored to your preferences and career goals. Explore the opportunities at Illinois Tool Works today and discover how your expertise can help shape the future of our company and the industries we serve. Join us in our mission to achieve excellence through innovation and leadership.
Learn more about Illinois Tool Works
Size
45,000 employees
Market Cap
$68.1 billion
Industry
Net Income
$2.1 billion
Founded
1912
5 Year Trend
+1.2%
Revenue
$12.5 billion
NASDAQ

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