Associate R&D Process Engineer

Carlisle Construction Materials; Greenville (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Carlisle Construction Materials is seeking an R&D Process Engineer – Plant Focused to drive process improvements and innovation across production facilities. You will analyze data, troubleshoot materials and equipment, and collaborate with plant leadership to improve quality, productivity, reliability, and cost.

The role requires hands-on problem solving, development of process specifications, and leadership of projects involving new technologies and capital upgrades, using Lean, SPC, DOE, DMAIC

Qualifications

• 3+ years in plastic or rubber processing in a technical support role; 5+ years preferred.
• Strong knowledge of plastics manufacturing, compounding, extrusion, web handling and related processes.
• Experience with SPC, DOE, statistics and structured problem solving.

Responsibilities

• Identify/process improvements to reduce defects, scrap, downtime and costs.
• Provide hands-on technical support to plant production teams.
• Develop and maintain process specifications, controls and SPC systems.
• Lead projects including R&D trials, new product launches and capital improvements.
• Support Lean COS initiatives and tiered accountability and audits.
• Develop technical roadmaps and mentor plant personnel and managers.
• Maintain process information systems including SAP and production reporting.

Skills

Plastic/Rubber processing

SPC

DOE

Lean Six Sigma

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Science

Tools

SAP

Job description

Job Description

Carlisle Construction Materials (CCM) is seeking an R&D Process Engineer – Plant Focused to drive process improvements, technical problem solving, and manufacturing innovation within our production facilities. This role works closely with plant leadership and production teams to improve quality, productivity, reliability, and cost while supporting the development and implementation of new processes, technologies, products, and equipment.

As a key technical resource within the plant, you will analyze process data—including defects, scrap, rework, downtime, and OEE—to identify opportunities and implement sustainable improvements. You'll work hands-on with production personnel to troubleshoot materials, methods, and equipment while developing expertise across compounding, extrusion, web handling, adhesive coating, and related manufacturing processes.

You’ll also lead and support projects involving new technology, cost reduction, R&D trials, new product and process start-ups, and capital equipment improvements. Using Lean methodologies, statistical process control, DOE, DMAIC, A3, and other structured problem-solving tools, you’ll help establish robust processes and build a culture of continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and implement process improvements that reduce defects, scrap, rework, downtime, and operating costs
• Provide hands‑on technical support and troubleshooting to plant production teams
• Develop and maintain process specifications, controls, and statistical process control systems
• Lead manufacturing projects, R&D trials, new product launches, and capital improvement initiatives
• Support Carlisle Operating System (COS) and Lean initiatives, including tiered accountability and layered audits
• Develop technical roadmaps and provide mentorship and guidance to plant personnel and managers
• Maintain process information systems, including SAP, process control, dimensional control, and production reporting systems

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Science, or a related technical discipline
• 3+ years of plastic or rubber processing experience in a technical support role; 5+ years preferred
• Knowledge of plastics manufacturing, compounding, extrusion, sheeting, and web‑handling processes
• Experience with SPC, DOE, statistical analysis, and structured problem‑solving methodologies
• Strong project management, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Lean Six Sigma certification and plastics technology coursework preferred

This position typically works Monday–Friday, with approximately 10–25% travel based on business needs.