Process Engineer Plastics (Injection Molding)
Location : Rockford, IL
Employment Type : Full-Time
Position Summary
The Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting high-speed plastic injection molding processes, with a concentration on thin-wall packaging applications. This role partners closely with Process Technicians, Tooling, Quality, Maintenance, and cross-functional manufacturing teams to improve cycle times, reduce scrap, increase efficiency, and support new product introductions. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience in scientific molding, DOE studies, automation integration, and continuous improvement within a fast-paced plastics manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Process Development & Optimization
- Develop, document, and optimize injection molding processes for new and existing molds.
- Provide technical leadership and hands-on support to Process Technicians and Molding Operators.
- Analyze process data and implement improvements to reduce cycle times, scrap, and downtime.
- Lead process validation activities, including DOE, IQ / OQ / PQ protocols, and capability studies.
- Ensure compliance with GMP / SQF, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
Troubleshooting & Collaboration
Partner with Quality, Tool Room, Maintenance, and Production to resolve part defects and molding issues.Evaluate mold performance and recommend tooling improvements.Support predictive and preventive maintenance initiatives to improve uptime and equipment reliability.Work with Project Management to support new product launches and equipment upgrades.Automation & System Integration
Integrate molding cells with robotics, vision inspection, and downstream packaging systems.Assist in selecting, installing, and commissioning injection molding machines and auxiliary equipment.Implement automation improvements and labor optimization strategies.Continuous Improvement & Efficiency
Lead and participate in Lean and Six Sigma initiatives to improve OEE and reduce waste.Conduct labor studies, cycle time analysis, and process capability improvements.Drive cost-saving initiatives using Six Sigma methodologies and project charters.Qualifications
Education & Experience
Bachelors Degree in Plastics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).5+ years of hands-on plastic injection molding experience in a manufacturing setting.High-speed, thin-wall injection molding experience required.Experience developing scientific molding processes from the ground up.Experience conducting DOE studies and validating molding processes (IQ / OQ / PQ).Experience integrating robotics, automation, and high-speed packaging systems.Formal training in scientific molding or RJG certification preferred.Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification a plus.Technical CompetenciesStrong understanding of polypropylene, polyethylene, and other packaging-grade resins.Ability to read and interpret SPC charts and improve process capabilities.Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with ERP / MES systems.Strong understanding of OEE and ability to drive measurable improvements.Competent in root cause analysis and structured problem-solving.Soft Skills & AttributesHands-on, collaborative team player.Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume production environment.Effective communication across cross-functional teams.Detail-oriented with a passion for efficiency and quality.Relationships
Works closely with all departments including Production, Quality, Tool Room, Maintenance, and Engineering.Supervisory Responsibilities
None