Process Engineer
Grade: 10
Reports to: Manager, Process Engineering Department: Engineering
Classification: Salaried Exempt Division: Process Engineering
Date: 04/27/2026 Approved: HR Director, Operations
JOB SUMMARY:The Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and sustaining manufacturing processes related to the launch and production of automotive fasteners. This role focuses on improving efficiency, quality, and cost performance across operations such as cold heading, thread rolling, heat treatment, and secondary operations. The Process Engineer plays a key role in continuous improvement, new product launches, and ensuring compliance with customer and industry standards (e.g., IATF 16949). The Process Engineer maintains or modifies existing products utilizing Computer Aided Design (CAD) & APQP techniques.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:Process Engineering- Using relevant computer-based engineering programs such as Solid Works & AutoCAD for...
- Drawing customer prints.
- Drawing internal process prints and creating necessary documents for cold forming, thread rolling, and other internal ops.
- Designing gauges for use in production.
- Modifying plant layout for adding or moving machinery.
- Read, generate, and maintain specific blueprints for customers.
- Utilize Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) on prints.
Troubleshooting- Troubleshoot problems with the manufacturing and engineering teams.
- Use core tools to address product launch issues and customer concerns (8D, FMEA, Cp/Ck).
- Use Value Stream Mapping (VSM) to solve problems.
- Use other tools as necessary to improve engineering processes.
- Support OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) improvements across production lines.
New Product Launch Support- Work with Sales and Production on new and existing parts
- Participate in APQP activities for new products.
- Participate in design and process reviews with Sales and customers.
- Perform feasibility studies on new products.
- Assist with developing and validating processes for new part launches and product changes, including PFMEA, control plans, and process flow diagrams
- Complete Process Change Requests.
- Familiar with ERP system master data in order to set up and maintain materials.
- Define equipment needs.
- Analyze capacity for balancing and new equipment planning.
- Provide input on technical specifications and product allocations to planned equipment.
Quality & Compliance
- Ensure processes comply with IATF 16949, ISO standards, and customer-specific requirements.
- Support internal and external audits.
- Monitor and improve key quality metrics (PPM, scrap rates, customer returns).
Data Analysis & Reporting
- Utilize statistical tools and manufacturing data systems to analyze trends and drive decision-making.
- Prepare reports on process performance, improvements, and cost savings.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS:- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field required.
- Engineering experience in the fastener industry or with cold forming technology is preferred.
- Physically able to lift 30 pounds.
- Proficient in GD&T and blueprint reading.
- Use of CAD, Excel, precision measuring equipment and ERP systems.
- Must be very thorough and accurate.
- Hands-on mindset with shop floor presence and effective communication.
ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES:
- Noise from heavy machinery
- Exposure to chemicals, oils, acids, sprays, coolants, and solvents
- Exposure to batteries and propane
- Temperature fluctuations
- Employees are responsible for complying with all applicable MISOSHA regulations and facility safety standards. Employees must not damage, move, interfere with, or remove any required safety equipment or devices.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT & RESPONSIBILITIES:- Demonstrate active commitment to the company's ISO 14001 EMS.
- Ensure departmental processes comply with environmental policies, legal requirements, and customer expectations.
- Identify and reduce environmental risks, waste streams, and resource consumption within area of responsibility.
- Support environmental objectives and targets, including waste reduction, recycling, energy efficiency, and pollution prevention.
- Promote employee awareness and accountability for environmentally responsible behaviors.
- Participate in internal and external EMS audits and support corrective action activities.
- Support spill prevention, containment, and response practices.
Employees are responsible for understanding the environmental and safety policies related to their job functions and performing work in a manner consistent with the company's environmental and safety policies.
