Manufacturing Engineer

Introduction: We are seeking a skilled and experienced Manufacturing Engineer with expertise in plastic extrusion, polymer processing, lean manufacturing, and CAD design (AutoCAD or Autodesk Inventor). The ideal candidate will be responsible for optimizing manufacturing processes, improving product quality, and leading continuous improvement initiatives in our production facility.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Plastic Extrusion & Polymer Processing:
2. Design, optimize, and troubleshoot plastic extrusion processes, ensuring efficient operation and high-quality product output.
3. Collaborate with the R&D team to develop and scale polymer processing techniques for new product lines.
4. Analyze and monitor the performance of extrusion equipment and systems, ensuring alignment with production goals and safety standards.
5. Conduct material testing and evaluate polymer performance to ensure product specifications and quality standards are met.

6. Lean Manufacturing:
7. Lead and implement lean manufacturing principles to reduce waste, increase efficiency, and streamline production processes.
8. Facilitate continuous improvement initiatives, including Kaizen events, value stream mapping, and 5S methodology.
9. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for manufacturing operations.
10. Drive cost reduction efforts while maintaining or improving product quality and delivery performance.

11. CAD Design (AutoCAD/Autodesk Inventor):
12. Develop and modify detailed 2D/3D drawings and models for manufacturing processes using AutoCAD or Autodesk Inventor.
13. Create and update tooling designs, jigs, fixtures, and equipment layouts to support production requirements.
14. Work with the engineering team to design process improvements and solve complex manufacturing challenges through CAD.

15. Process Improvement and Troubleshooting:
16. Analyze production data to identify areas for process improvement and implement corrective actions.
17. Provide technical support and troubleshooting expertise for manufacturing and production teams.
18. Work closely with quality control to ensure all products meet required specifications and regulatory standards.

19. Collaboration & Teamwork:
20. Serve as a liaison between engineering, production, and quality teams to ensure smooth product flow and timely delivery.
21. Provide training and mentorship to junior engineers and production staff on best practices and new manufacturing technologies.
22. Communicate effectively with management regarding production status, issues, and continuous improvement opportunities.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in plastic extrusion, polymer processing, and manufacturing engineering.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and experience implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD or Autodesk Inventor for designing and modeling manufacturing equipment and tooling.
• Experience with troubleshooting extrusion equipment and optimizing polymer processing techniques.
• Strong problem-solving skills, analytical mindset, and ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and project management skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with advanced extrusion technologies, including multi-layer extrusion, co-extrusion, and compounding.
• Knowledge of materials science, particularly in polymers and plastics.
• Certification or training in lean manufacturing (e.g., Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S).
• Familiarity with ISO and other manufacturing quality standards.