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Process Engineer - Plastic Injection Molding

Process Engineer - Plastic Injection Molding

Now Hiring Heroes

Rockford, IL

$65K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Process Engineer – Plastic Injection Molding
Location: On-Site Manufacturing Facility
Employment Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $65k - $70k
Industry: Manufacturing / Plastics / Packaging
Position Overview
A growing manufacturing organization is seeking an experienced Process Engineer with plastic injection molding expertise to support high-volume production operations. This role focuses on developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting injection molding processes to ensure efficient, consistent, and high-quality manufacturing output.
The Process Engineer works closely with process technicians, tooling teams, maintenance, quality, and production leadership to improve cycle times, reduce scrap, increase uptime, and support continuous improvement initiatives.
This position also plays a key role in new product launches, equipment upgrades, and automation integration within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Injection Molding Process Development
  • Develop, document, and optimize plastic injection molding processes for new and existing molds
  • Provide technical guidance to process technicians and molding operators
  • Troubleshoot molding defects, process instability, and equipment performance issues
  • Improve cycle times, scrap reduction, and process repeatability
  • Support mold trials, machine startups, and process validation
Manufacturing Process Improvement
  • Analyze production data and implement improvements to increase efficiency and OEE
  • Lead process validation activities including DOE, IQ/OQ/PQ, and capability studies
  • Identify opportunities for cost reduction and manufacturing efficiency
  • Participate in Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives
Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with tooling, quality, maintenance, and operations teams
  • Support preventive and predictive maintenance strategies
  • Evaluate mold performance and recommend tooling improvements
  • Assist project teams with new product introductions
Automation & Equipment Integration
  • Support integration of molding cells with robotics, vision inspection, and automated packaging systems
  • Assist with installation and commissioning of molding machines and auxiliary equipment
  • Identify automation opportunities to improve production efficiency
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Plastics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 5+ years of experience in plastic injection molding manufacturing
  • Experience with high-speed injection molding processes
  • Experience developing scientific molding processes
  • Experience conducting Design of Experiments (DOE)
  • Experience troubleshooting molding processes and mold issues
  • Strong understanding of Statistical Process Control (SPC)
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with thin-wall packaging applications
  • Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification
  • Continuous Improvement Green Belt certification
  • Training in Scientific Molding or RJG technology
  • Experience integrating robotics or automated production systems
  • Experience working in regulated manufacturing environments
Technical Skills
  • Knowledge of polypropylene, polyethylene, and other packaging resins
  • Strong understanding of OEE metrics and process improvement
  • Experience performing root cause analysis and process troubleshooting
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office
  • Familiarity with ERP or MES manufacturing systems
Why This Role
  • Work in a modern manufacturing environment
  • Opportunity to lead process improvement initiatives
  • Exposure to high-speed production and advanced automation
  • Impact production efficiency, quality, and operational performance

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Frequently asked questions

Q: What skills or qualities help someone succeed as a Process Engineer?

A: To succeed as a Process Engineer, key technical skills include proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS), strong understanding of thermodynamics, mass and energy balances, and experience with process control systems. Soft skills such as effective communication, problem-solving, and collaboration are also crucial, as Process Engineers often work with cross-functional teams to optimize and troubleshoot processes. By combining technical expertise with strong interpersonal skills, Process Engineers can drive process improvements, reduce costs, and enhance overall plant efficiency, ultimately supporting their career growth and effectiveness in the role.

Q: What is the career path for a Process Engineer?

A: A Process Engineer's typical career progression involves starting as an Entry-Level Process Engineer, where they design, develop, and optimize processes for manufacturing or production facilities. As they gain experience, they can move into Mid-Level roles such as Process Improvement Engineer or Senior Process Engineer, where they lead teams, implement process changes, and ensure compliance with industry regulations. Ultimately, senior Process Engineers can transition into Senior Leadership positions, such as Operations Manager or Engineering Manager, or pursue specialized roles like Technical Sales or Consulting Engineer, leveraging their expertise to drive business growth and innovation.

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Now Hiring Heroes job posting for a Process Engineer - Plastic Injection Molding in Rockford, IL with a salary of $65,000 to $70,000 Annually with a map of Rockford location.