Manufacturing Engineer - SMC Process & Lean Optimizer

Kids for the Future; Chagrin Falls (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Kids for the Future is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to optimize the sheet molding compound production line in a high-volume, automated facility. You will focus on process efficiency, material quality, and waste reduction across all production stages.

The role emphasizes hands-on floor presence, process control, and cross-functional collaboration with maintenance and engineering teams to ensure uptime and safe operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related field preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in composites manufacturing required, preferably SMC or similar processes.
• Strong understanding of polymer chemistry, fiber-reinforced materials, and process control.
• Experience with Lean and Six Sigma tools.
• Familiarity with automated manufacturing systems and PLC-controlled processes.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Own and continuously optimize the SMC production line, including resin mixing, doctor blade gap settings, glass fiber chopping, and conveyor speed.
• Monitor and adjust process variables to maintain stable, high-performance operations.
• Assist in qualifying new raw materials and formulas; provide feedback to Material Engineering.
• Partner with maintenance teams and vendors to ensure reliability and uptime of equipment.
• Identify and implement improvements, including tooling, fixtures, or material handling solutions.
• Apply Lean manufacturing principles (5S, Kaizen) and Six Sigma methodologies (DOE, SPC) to improve yield and reduce scrap.
• Drive data-based decision-making across operations.
• Establish, monitor, and maintain SOPs, batch records, and process documentation for compliance.
• Ensure full compliance with EHS and OSHA requirements on the production floor.

Skills

Problem-solving

Analytical thinking

Communication

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related field

Tools

DOE

SPC

PLC systems

Automation knowledge

Job description

Kids for the Future is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to optimize the sheet molding compound production line in a high-volume, automated facility. You will focus on process efficiency, material quality, and waste reduction across all production stages.

The role emphasizes hands-on floor presence, process control, and cross-functional collaboration with maintenance and engineering teams to ensure uptime and safe operations.