Plastics Process Engineer

The Plastics Process Engineer designs, optimizes, and manages manufacturing processes for plastic products with a focus on extrusion and related technologies. This role evaluates, develops, and improves processes to increase efficiency, ensure quality, reduce costs, and support product development. The engineer partners with equipment vendors, maintain process data, and provides decision-making support to leadership while managing the quality control technicians and coordinating with maintenance staff. Key Responsibilities Process Optimization & Development

• Develop and implement new processes to enhance product quality, increase productivity, and improve equipment efficiency (extrusion, injection molding, or blow molding).
• Evaluate product requirements and research testing methods, conferring with equipment vendors as needed.
• Improve workflow, space requirements, and equipment layout to maximize manufacturing efficiency. Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement
• Diagnose and resolve issues related to equipment, material defects, and process inconsistencies.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, SPC, and DOE methods to identify and execute improvement opportunities.
• Coordinate maintenance and repair services to ensure equipment uptime. Tooling, Equipment & Quality
• Select, design, or recommend appropriate tools, molds, dies, and machinery for plastics processing.
• Assure product and process quality by designing testing methods and implementing process controls.
• Perform root cause analysis for failures and implement corrective actions. Data, Reporting & Decision Support
• Maintain product and process databases; design simple programs / tools for data collection and analysis.
• Prepare reports summarizing production trends, quality metrics, and process improvements.
• Provide leadership with decision-making information by calculating production, labor, and material costs. Training & Leadership
• Develop SOPs and train technicians and operators on processes, equipment, and quality standards.
• Guide teams in implementing new technologies and process improvements.
• Maintain technical knowledge through workshops, training, and industry resources.
• Manage and develop the quality control team. Safety & Compliance
• Ensure all processes and equipment comply with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Maintain company reputation and compliance with applicable government requirements. Qualifications
• Education : Bachelor’s degree in Plastics, Chemical, Mechanical, or Materials Engineering (or related).
• Experience : Minimum 5 years in a manufacturing environment, with direct plastics processing experience (extrusion, injection molding, or blow molding preferred).
• Technical Skills : Knowledge of polymer science, material properties, and plastics processing technologies. Proficiency with CAD / CAE tools (SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and simulation software (e.g., Moldflow). Strong data analysis and SPC methodology skills.
• Soft Skills : Strong problem-solving, analytical, leadership, and communication skills; proactive with a continuous improvement mindset. Work Environment & Physical Requirements
• Company-issued cell phone provided or a $50 / month stipend for approved business use of a personal device (per company policy)
• Onsite manufacturing and office environment with frequent time spent on the production floor.
• Standing / walking for extended periods (~70% of shift).
• Lifting up to 50 lbs. occasionally, 20 lbs. frequently (use of carts / hoists as needed).
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, climb stairs / ladders, and handle tools / samples.
• Vision and hearing sufficient for quality inspection and working in high-noise areas.
• Exposure to noise, heat, moving machinery, dust / fumes, and common chemicals (with PPE controls).
• Required PPE : safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and safety-toe footwear (respirator use as needed).
• Occasional overtime or off-shift support required for trials, maintenance, or urgent production needs. SeaCa Plastic Packaging, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This description may be revised as business needs evolve. Employment Type : Full Time Years Experience : 5 - 10 years Salary : $75,000 - $100,000 Annual Bonus / Commission : No