Process Associate Jobs in Gadsden, AL (NOW HIRING)

Company Description
Kronospan is the world's leading producer of wood panel products including MDF, OSB, Particleboard, and Laminate Flooring. We are state of the art, automated, and visionary. We are sustainable and eco-friendly. We are Worldwide AND we are American Made. We are Kronospan.
Job Description
The Process Engineer is responsible for monitoring, controlling, optimizing, and continuously improving manufacturing processes within the MDF production plant to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective production of MDF products that consistently meet customer specifications and quality standards. The role focuses on process stability, product quality, operational excellence, cost reduction, and continuous improvement through data analysis, troubleshooting, process optimization, and the execution of plant trials and improvement projects.
The Process Engineer works closely with Production, Quality, Maintenance, Technical Services, and Operations teams to maximize plant performance, increase productivity, reduce waste, improve product quality, and support the achievement of business objectives.
• Monitor and analyze product quality performance throughout the MDF manufacturing process, including fiber preparation, drying, blending, forming, pressing, finishing, and packaging.
• Ensure MDF products consistently meet internal quality standards, customer specifications, and applicable industry requirements.
• Investigate quality deviations, customer complaints, and non-conforming products to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance personnel to establish and maintain process quality control plans.
• Monitor critical quality parameters including:
• Analyze quality trends and generate reports with recommendations for improvement.
• Lead and coordinate process improvement projects across all stages of MDF manufacturing.
• Design, plan, execute, monitor, and document process trials aimed at improving quality, productivity, safety, and cost performance.
• Evaluate trial results using statistical and technical analysis techniques.
• Prepare technical reports and recommendations following trial completion.
• Collaborate with suppliers and technical partners to evaluate new raw materials, chemicals, additives, and technologies.
• Support implementation of approved process changes and new manufacturing practices.
• Identify bottlenecks and develop solutions to improve plant capacity and operational efficiency.
• Participate in continuous improvement programs utilizing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other improvement methodologies.
Qualifications
2 years of experience in a wood panel production industry
• Background in process and product development
• Bachelor degree in Engineering or Technical Process OR equivalent experience
• Self-control in emergency situations
• Ability to schedule and balance priorities
• Must display original thinking and creativity through resourcefulness, suggestions, and problem solving
• Ability to communicate and interact effectively at all levels of organization
• Effective organizational skills and time management
• Proactive thinking and planning
• Strong leadership skills
• Strong decision making skills under pressure
• Responsibility and accountability
• Strong analytical skills
• Ability to work closely with others in a small team environment
• Good processes aptitude
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted
Additional Information
As a company dedicated to its associates, we offer numerous benefits and advantages:
- Growth opportunities, domestic and international, with the world's leading producer of wood panel products
- Work in a diverse, inclusive environment with colleagues from around the world
- A highly competitive benefits program including affordable medical, dental and vision plans
- Company paid life and short & long term disability plans
- Supplemental life, critical illness and accident plans for you and your family
- 401 (k) retirement plan with company match
- Paid time off including a generous paid vacation plan and holidays after 90 days
- "Life of Career" training opportunities through our global or local KronoAcademy
- Uniform & reimbursement for safety boots & prescription safety glasses and company provided tools
Together we work, together we win.
WHAT TO SEND OUR WAY
- A cover letter along with your Resume, highlighting your education, experience and skills.