Associate Project Engineer Jobs in Cadillac, MI (NOW HIRING)

The Plastics Process Engineer is responsible for setting up, adjusting, and maintaining plastic injection molding processes to ensure the consistent production of high-quality automotive components. This role supports daily manufacturing operations by troubleshooting process issues, optimizing machine parameters, and ensuring molds and auxiliary equipment are operating efficiently. The technician ensures process consistency, helps with root cause analysis, and contributes to continuous improvement activities in alignment with safety, quality, and environmental standards.

Core Competencies

• Accountability & Dependability
• Analytical
• Collaborative
• Communication
• Creative & Innovating Thinking
• Detail Oriented
• Development & Continual Learning
• Ethics & Integrity
• Mathematical Reasoning
• Planning & Organizing
• Problem Solving   
• Research & Analysis
• Results Driven
• Teamwork
• Time Management

Job Duties

• Set up and start up plastic molding/extrusion machines and auxiliary equipment according to specifications.
• Optimize process parameters to maintain consistent part quality and minimize cycle time and scrap.
• Monitor machine performance and identify opportunities for process improvements.
• Perform root cause analysis of molding defects such as flash, short shots, sink marks, warping, etc.
• Perform in-process inspections using gauges, calipers, and other measurement tools.
• Maintain accurate records of machine settings and process parameters for each job.
• Assist engineers with process trials, tool qualifications, and sample runs.
• Support preventive maintenance activities and minor mechanical repairs.
• Create and update documentation such as setup sheets, process logs, and troubleshooting guides.
• Collaborate with Quality and Engineering teams to address non-conformances and implement corrective actions.
• Train and support machine operators on process best practices and standard work.
• Contribute to safety and environmental initiatives by following procedures and recommending improvements.
• Participate in continuous improvement projects to improve efficiency, part quality, and machine uptime.
• Ensure compliance with company Quality Management System and Environmental Management System policies.

Requirements

• Certificate or associate degree in Plastics Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 3–5 years of hands-on experience with injection molding, extrusion, or blow molding processes.
• Strong understanding of plastic materials, tooling, and processing principles.
• Familiar with reading blueprints, part drawings, and technical documentation.
• Experience using measurement devices (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges).
• Working knowledge of Process Flow and Control Plans preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude with ability to use hand tools and perform minor machine maintenance.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• Computer proficiency in basic data entry, spreadsheets, and documentation software.
• Self-starter with strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.