Injection Molding Process Engineer — Lean & Validation

Franklin Electric Co.; Oklahoma City (OK); On-site; USD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Franklin Electric Co. in Oklahoma City is seeking a Process Engineer for injection molding to develop, optimize, and maintain high-quality plastic components.

You will collaborate with Production, Tooling, Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, and Continuous Improvement teams to improve productivity, reduce scrap, and support new product launches. The role requires a strong grasp of molding parameters, resin characteristics, problem solving with 5 Why and SPC, and experience with Lean/Six Sigma.

Qualifications

• Thorough understanding of plastic injection molding processes and molding parameters.
• Strong knowledge of resin characteristics including commodity and engineered thermoplastics.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex molding defects and identify root causes.
• Knowledge of mold design, tooling, hot runner systems, cooling systems, and auxiliary equipment.
• Familiarity with robotic automation, conveyors, dryers, chillers, thermolators, and material handling systems.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, specifications, and quality requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with SPC, process capability studies, and statistical analysis.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop, establish, document, and optimize injection molding processes for new and existing products.
• Set up and validate molding parameters including fill, pack, hold, cooling, injection speed, screw recovery, clamp force, and melt temperatures.
• Troubleshoot molding defects such as flash, short shots, sink marks, burns, splay, warpage, bubbles, and dimensional issues.
• Analyze process performance and implement corrective actions to improve quality and cycle times.
• Lead scientific molding and process validation activities including IQ, OQ, and PQ as required.
• Establish standard process documentation, setup sheets, work instructions, and process control limits.
• Support mold trials, first article inspections, engineering changes, and new product introductions.
• Collaborate with Tooling and Maintenance to identify mold repairs, preventive maintenance needs, and equipment improvements.
• Evaluate and recommend process improvements that increase productivity, reduce waste, and lower manufacturing costs.
• Monitor key performance indicators including cycle time, scrap, downtime, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), and machine utilization.
• Perform root cause analysis using structured problem-solving methods such as 5 Why, Fishbone, Pareto Analysis, and Corrective Action.
• Assist in equipment selection, installation, and commissioning of new molding machines and auxiliary equipment.
• Train production personnel, mold technicians, and process technicians on established processing standards and best practices.
• Ensure compliance with customer specifications, quality standards, and engineering requirements.
• Participate in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support production during startup, changeovers, and troubleshooting activities.
• Work with Quality Engineering to resolve customer complaints and internal quality concerns.
• Maintain accurate engineering records, process documentation, and validation reports.
• Ensure compliance with company safety policies and OSHA regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Injection molding process knowledge

Troubleshooting molding defects

Statistical analysis (SPC)

Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma

Cross-functional collaboration

Documentation and standards

Microsoft Office proficiency

ERP/MRP experience

GD&T understanding

Education

Bachelor's degree in Plastics Engineering

Equivalent combination of education and injection molding experience

Tools

CAD software

ERP/MRP systems

Job description

Franklin Electric Co. in Oklahoma City is seeking a Process Engineer for injection molding to develop, optimize, and maintain high-quality plastic components.

You will collaborate with Production, Tooling, Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, and Continuous Improvement teams to improve productivity, reduce scrap, and support new product launches. The role requires a strong grasp of molding parameters, resin characteristics, problem solving with 5 Why and SPC, and experience with Lean/Six Sigma.