Process Engineering Jobs in Grand Rapids, MI (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary:

Primary responsibility for a Process Engineering Technician is focused on process development and continuous improvement for manufacturing in order to efficiently create parts that consistently meet customer expectations.  Engineering owns the product definition and the BOM, this position, for the assigned area, owns the process definition, including methods, tools and ancillary equipment parameters required to produce the product to specification.  The manufacturing process definition is established by the model specific manufacturing plan, work instructions and ISPCS and the applicable general standards, procedures and work instructions.  This role provides the daily support and ongoing ownership of the process from the earliest stages of new product development, through launch and ongoing support of all current production including engineering changes, efficiency improvements, problem solving and cost reductions.

Job Responsibilities:

• Provide immediate response and resolution to issues occurring on the line, include additional assistance from engineering, manufacturing engineering, launch, and suppliers etc.… as required to solve problems and keep the line moving.
• Work in conjunction with Product Development team members, Purchasing, Manufacturing and others to maximize success of New Process and NPD projects pertinent to cost, quality, manufacturing readiness, and schedule attainment.
• Participate with designers, engineers, launch, manufacturing engineering, customer relations and suppliers to ensure the product can be cost effectively manufactured with capable processes. 
• Define the required processes and manufacturing documentation for new projects. Work with the Launch team for release of the initial process documentation and then maintain and update it as changes occur throughout the product lifecycle.  Create where required, maintain, validate, control, set a high standard, and be the overall gate keeper for all documentation for the assigned area.  At a minimum this includes Man Plans, WIs, and ISPCS.
• Manage and execute product changes, whether MY Changes, specials, or product fixes and improvements by analyzing the impact, planning and communicating the details and timing and preparing the updates to documentation and tools required, facilitating any necessary training, and finally coordinating the execution in a way that minimizes disruption and ensures that product requirements are met.  Responsible for all product and process changes in your area.
• Use the Engineering Change Process in Syteline to document and gain proper approvals and communication of changes.  Use the Deviation process for trials or short-term changes.
• Work with manufacturing teams on continuous improvement projects focused on process optimization to reduce cycle time, waste, labor and improve quality.  Use appropriate tools such as SWCT, PFMEAs, GANT Charts…
• Conduct trials and recommend material and product changes for consideration by Engineering to drive further improvements.
• Perform regular process audits, and review of quality data and take appropriate action based on findings.
• Support manufacturing teams in training, conducting, and hosting their A3 Problem Solving/Kaizen events to help drive a better culture of Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost.
• Other duties and tasks as assigned.

Education and Experience:

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Ability and experience in effectively leading change in a positive manner.
• Strong interpersonal communication skills, written and verbal.  Must be able to understand and communicate technical details clearly so they can be understood by everyone.
• Strong analysis and problem solving skills
• Broad understanding of boatbuilding would be helpful, but not required.
• Familiarity with a wide range of boat building materials, processes and equipment.  Specifically: closed molding processes such as LRTM, Infusion, as well as Spray Coatings and hand layup…
• Detail oriented and precise
• Strong computer skills, working knowledge of Excel, Word, Publisher, PowerPoint and Syteline is critical.  Knowledge of Solidworks, Rhino, AutoCAD or Microsoft Project would be beneficial.
• 5 plus years working in or supporting a manufacturing operation
• An Associate’s Degree or Technical Certifications in relevant disciplines would be a plus.

General Job Requirements:

• Pass a background check, drug test and physical
• Ability to work overtime as requested
• Promote a safe and clean work environment
• Willingness to work on a team or individually
• Able to follow manufacturing instruction and understand processes
• Must practice PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) policies as mandated per area. (Use safety glasses/goggles, hearing protection, etc.)
• Must follow company safety guidelines
• Must be fluent in the English language