Title:                          Process Engineer - Extrusion

Reports To:              Manager Technical Services

Job Summary: The Process Engineer for Extrusion is responsible for optimizing, maintaining, and improving extrusion processes to ensure high-quality production of plastic or polymer products. This role focuses on driving process improvements, increasing efficiency, reducing waste, and ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards. The Process Engineer will collaborate with production, quality, and maintenance teams to troubleshoot and solve issues while ensuring consistent product output.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Process Optimization:
   • Develop, implement, and maintain extrusion processes to improve efficiency, quality, cost, and performance.
   • Optimize machine settings and parameters to achieve product specifications and minimize waste.
   • Conduct trials on new raw materials, products, and technologies to support continuous improvement.
2. Troubleshooting & Problem Solving:
   • Identify, diagnose, and resolve issues in the extrusion process, including machine setup, material flow, die performance, and other process parameters.
   • Collaborate with the maintenance team to ensure machinery operates at optimal efficiency.
3. Quality Control:
   • Ensure extrusion processes meet the company's quality standards and comply with industry regulations.
   • Implement process controls to reduce defects and rework.
   • Work closely with the quality team to address any product quality concerns.
   • Validating product quality.
4. Process Documentation & Reporting:
   • Create and maintain accurate process documentation, including machine settings, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and control charts.
   • Analyze process data to identify trends and implement corrective actions.
5. Safety & Compliance:
   • Ensure that extrusion processes comply with all safety regulations and company policies.
   • Conduct safety audits and risk assessments related to the extrusion process.
6. Cross-functional Collaboration:
   • Work closely with R&D, production, and quality teams on new product development and trials.
   • Assist in training production staff on extrusion process best practices and machine operation.
7. Continuous Improvement:
   • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives such as lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other quality improvement methods to drive operational excellence.
   • Lead process improvement projects to reduce costs and improve productivity.
   • Design, set-up, and troubleshoot new equipment and procedures.
   • Learn the thermoform process to better understand how our product reacts to temperature and the forming process.

Qualifications:

• An advanced degree is not required. The ideal candidate will have at least 7 years of hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment, with strong technical and mechanical skills, particularly in plastics processing, extrusion, and related process operations. (plastics, polymer, or related materials).
• Strong understanding of extrusion processes, equipment, and materials.
• Proven problem-solving skills with hands-on experience in troubleshooting extrusion issues.
• Excellent communication skills, able to build rapport and work in cross-functional teams.
• Proficient in data analysis and use of statistical process control (SPC) tools.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of PLC controls and automation systems.
• Experience with polymer chemistry or material science.
• Familiarity with process control, lean manufacturing, and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Project management experience

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment, including standing for extended periods and lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Willingness to work flexible hours to support production schedules.

How to Apply:

Email resume and salary requirements to careers@rowmark.com

Rowmark is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values our employees and offers a competitive pay and benefits package, an encouraging, supportive environment with training, professional development, recognition programs and career growth opportunities. Our benefits include profit-sharing, medical, dental, vision, 401(k), life insurance, flexible spending account options, short-term and long-term disability, vacation, and paid company holidays.