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Process Engineer Jobs in Portage, MI (NOW HIRING)

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Manufacturing Engineer - Paint

Portage, MI · On-site

JOB TITLE: Engineer, Manufacturing (Paint) FLSA STATUS: Exempt REPORTS TO: Manager, Engineering ... Developing paint processes for 1K and 2K waterborne and solvent borne paint systems using automatic ...

Mars

Principal Project Engineer

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

Principal Project Engineer The Principal Project Engineer will be a project manager for the larger ... Depending on business needs you will potentially lead projects in process areas, buildings and ...

Stone Peak

Structural Engineer

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

National engineering firm which offers complete planning, process engineering, facility development, and construction management services. RESPONSIBILITIES: You will be a member of our structural ...

Beacon Specialized Living

AI/RPA Engineer

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$175K - $200K/yr

LLM Engineering & MLOps • Implement and manage LLM integrations including: • Secure prompt pipelines • Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) using enterprise data • Model evaluation and drift ...

Creative Foam Corporation

Manufacturing Engineer

Dowagiac, MI · On-site

$61K - $79K/yr

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1. Plans and coordinates production procedures, identifying process needs ... EDUCATION: 1. Bachelor' s degree in Engineering, or equivalent experience with emphasis on Mfg, ...

Stryker

Business Process Manager

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$118K - $196K/yr

Partner with Supply Chain, Sales, Engineering, Training, Quality, Compliance, Finance, Information Technology, and Operations teams to support process improvements, field readiness activities, and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsProcess Engineer JobsProcess Engineer Jobs in Portage, MI

Process Engineer information

See Portage, MI salary details

$46.5K

$86.4K

$133.8K

How much do process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for process engineer in Portage, MI is $86,397.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,900.00 and $96,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a process engineer?

Process Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and optimize industrial processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety in manufacturing or production environments. They analyze workflows, troubleshoot process issues, and develop solutions to enhance productivity and reduce costs. Process Engineers often work in industries such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and energy, ensuring processes are compliant with environmental and safety regulations. Their work is vital for maintaining smooth operations and achieving organizational goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a process engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical, mechanical, or industrial engineering, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and understanding of process optimization principles. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or AutoCAD), Six Sigma methodologies, and quality management systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential to improve efficiency, ensure safety, and drive continuous improvement in industrial and manufacturing processes.

What are some common challenges process engineers face when implementing process improvements, and how can they overcome them?

Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as resistance to change from team members, integrating new technologies with existing systems, and ensuring process changes meet regulatory standards. Overcoming these obstacles typically involves clear communication, involving stakeholders early in the process, thorough documentation, and piloting changes before full-scale implementation. Building strong cross-functional relationships and continuously gathering feedback also help ensure that improvements are effective and sustainable.

What is the difference between Process Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectProcess EngineerManufacturing Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Six SigmaBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Lean Manufacturing
Work EnvironmentDesigning and optimizing processes, R&D settingsOverseeing production lines, factory floors
Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical, aerospaceAutomotive, electronics, consumer goods

Process Engineers focus on designing and improving manufacturing processes, often working in R&D or engineering departments. Manufacturing Engineers concentrate on implementing and managing production on the factory floor. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications but differ mainly in their scope and work environment.

What jobs can a process engineer do?

A process engineer designs, develops, and optimizes manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety. They work in industries such as chemical, pharmaceutical, food, and automotive, often using tools like process simulation software and requiring knowledge of quality standards and safety regulations.
More about Process Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Process Engineer jobs in Portage, MI?

The most popular types of Process Engineer jobs in Portage, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Process Engineer jobs in Portage, MI?

For Process Engineer jobs in Portage, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Portage, MI are hiring for Process Engineer jobs?

Cities near Portage, MI with the most Process Engineer job openings:

Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Engineer job openings in Portage, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,397 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer - Paint

Summit Polymer

Portage, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Summit Polymers rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 85 rated plastic manufacturers

Job description

Summit Polymers is a leading, global supplier of automotive interior systems including consoles, door panels, and instrument panels. With over 50 years serving the industry, we deliver engineering and product excellence to our customers, on time, in budget, with the latest innovations.
JOIN A TEAM WHERE YOU'LL BE CHALLENGED AND valued.
A career with Summit Polymers means working with smart people in a culture that thrives on challenging, meaningful work. At Summit, we look for growth potential with every hire. We don't just fill seats, we set people on career paths. We're always on the lookout for smart people who are committed to continuous improvement, customer service and quality.
JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: Engineer, Manufacturing (Paint) FLSA STATUS: Exempt
REPORTS TO: Manager, Engineering (Manufacturing)
SUMMARY
This is hands-on technical work involving the robotic painting and manufacture of injection molded plastic parts for automotive interior trim. Provide technical support and leadership to manufacturing production teams with a focus on operational excellence each and every day.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
Under general supervision is responsible for the following major tasks:
  • Responsible for all paint-related activities associated with new product launches including:
    • Developing efficient and robust programs using 6 axis paint robots (ABB or Fanuc) to meet customer specs, maximize paint transfer efficiency, and maximize production throughput.
    • Developing paint processes for 1K and 2K waterborne and solvent borne paint systems using automatic spray gun applicators.
    • Working with external suppliers to develop paint racks that present parts to the robots in a manner that allows for optimum paint coverage while minimizing cycle time and paint waste.
    • Evaluating paint rack designs to ensure parts can be loaded and unloaded efficiently while ensuring operators are able to work safely and ergonomically.
    • Working with paint suppliers to ensure their products allow us to meet our customer's requirements for dry film thickness, color, and gloss.
    • Working with packaging suppliers to develop internal WIP packaging that ensures safe, defect-free transportation to subsequent operations.
    • Writing standardized work instructions that are used to ensure that all operators perform tasks utilizing best practices each and every time the task is performed.
    • Analyze paint usage and cycle times to ensure that we will be able to meet customer demands while maintaining regulatory emissions compliance.
    • Continue to monitor and improve the above tasks throughout the production life of the program.
  • Support production teams with the daily operation of paint spray booths, robot programs, and paint processes.
    • Troubleshoot process or equipment-related problems and provide solutions in a timely manner.
  • Lead cross-functional teams in scrap reduction and continuous improvement activities focused on root-cause problem solving using 5-Why methodology.
    • Document lessons learned and share results of activities with peers company-wide.
  • Conduct daily process audits to ensure standardized work compliance.
  • Work with maintenance personnel to develop appropriate PM schedules for paint spray equipment to improve operational reliability.
  • Put together proposals to procure new equipment for capital investment or cost saving opportunities.
  • Investigate new opportunities to automate existing operations via PLC programming to improve consistency of results while reducing labor burden.
  • Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or similar technical discipline OR 5 years of experience in an automotive manufacturing or paint coatings environment may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office software suite - Excel, Word, PowerPoint.
  • Independent thinking with strong analytical and problem solving skills.
  • Preferred experienced in
    • Previous automotive class A painting experience
    • Programming using 6 axis ABB or Fanuc paint robots
    • Knowledge of various 1K and 2K paint systems (basecoat/clearcoat experience a plus)
    • Experience with paint spray processing
    • Knowledge of 2K mixing equipment (ABB integrated fluid delivery & IPS systems a plus)
    • Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles
    • Design and layout of paint spray booths and systems
    • PLC programming knowledge a plus (Allen Bradley preferred)
    • Knowledge of various thermal curing methods including IR and convection (UV cure a plus)
    • Surface preparation techniques including flame treatment and CO2 cleaning

Knowledge of paint chemistry and the ability to work with paint suppliers on usage optimization, formulation compatibility, paint performance, and quality problems.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Possesses the ability to gather and analyze information and make decisions from a limited number of choices.
  • A minimum score of 50 on the Wonderlic Select Assessment (Traditional Score of 26 on the cognitive portion).

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
This position typically does require less than 5% travel.
DISCLAIMER
The information contained in this job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities of the job, nor are they intended to be an all-inclusive list of the skills and abilities required to do the job. Management may, at its discretion, assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Agreement to complete all post-hire required training.

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