Manufacturing Plastics Process Engineer

Flex-N-Gate LLC.; Michigan; On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company  +

Tuition reimbursement

Paid holidays and vacation

Job summary

Flex‑N‑Gate LLC is seeking a Plastics Process Engineer to set up, adjust, and maintain plastic injection molding processes for automotive components. You will troubleshoot issues, optimize machine parameters, and ensure molds and equipment run efficiently.

In this role you will collaborate with Quality and Engineering teams, perform root cause analysis, contribute to continuous improvement, and uphold safety, environmental, and quality standards while driving productivity.

Qualifications

• Certificate or associate degree in Plastics Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience).
• Hands-on experience with injection molding, extrusion, or blow molding processes (3–5 years).
• Strong understanding of plastic materials, tooling, and processing principles.
• Familiar with reading blueprints, part drawings, and technical documentation.
• Experience using measurement devices (calipers, micrometers, gauges).
• Working knowledge of Process Flow and Control Plans preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude with ability to use hand tools and perform minor machine maintenance.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• Computer proficiency in basic data entry, spreadsheets, and documentation software.
• Self-starter with strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Set up and start up plastic molding/extrusion machines and auxiliary equipment according to specifications.
• Optimize process parameters to maintain consistent part quality and minimize cycle time and scrap.
• Monitor machine performance and identify opportunities for process improvements.
• Perform root cause analysis of molding defects such as flash, short shots, sink marks, warping, etc.
• Perform in-process inspections using gauges, calipers, and other measurement tools.
• Maintain accurate records of machine settings and process parameters for each job.
• Assist engineers with process trials, tool qualifications, and sample runs.
• Support preventive maintenance activities and minor mechanical repairs.
• Create and update documentation such as setup sheets, process logs, and troubleshooting guides.
• Collaborate with Quality and Engineering teams to address non-conformances and implement corrective actions.
• Train and support machine operators on process best practices and standard work.
• Contribute to safety and environmental initiatives by following procedures and recommending improvements.
• Participate in continuous improvement projects to improve efficiency, part quality, and machine uptime.
• Ensure compliance with company Quality Management System and Environmental Management System policies.

Skills

Accountability

Analytical

Communication

Creative thinking

Detail oriented

Ethics & integrity

Mathematical reasoning

Problem solving

Research & analysis

Teamwork

Education

Certificate or associate degree in Plastics Engineering or Manufacturing Technology

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Gauges

Job description

Flex‑N‑Gate is a leading manufacturer and supplier of components for the automotive industry, recently ranked 10th of the 150 Top North American Suppliers in “Automotive News.” A growing and vital company, Flex‑N‑Gate provides a great opportunity for hard‑working and skilled individuals.

The Plastics Process Engineer is responsible for setting up, adjusting, and maintaining plastic injection molding processes to ensure the consistent production of high‑quality automotive components. This role supports daily manufacturing operations by troubleshooting process issues, optimizing machine parameters, and ensuring molds and auxiliary equipment are operating efficiently. The technician ensures process consistency, helps with root cause analysis, and contributes to continuous improvement activities in alignment with safety, quality, and environmental standards.

Core Competencies

• Accountability & Dependability
• Analytical
• Communication
• Creative & Innovating Thinking
• Detail Oriented
• Ethics & Integrity
• Mathematical Reasoning
• Problem Solving
• Research & Analysis
• Results Driven
• Teamwork
• Time Management

Job Duties

• Set up and start up plastic molding/extrusion machines and auxiliary equipment according to specifications.
• Optimize process parameters to maintain consistent part quality and minimize cycle time and scrap.
• Monitor machine performance and identify opportunities for process improvements.
• Perform root cause analysis of molding defects such as flash, short shots, sink marks, warping, etc.
• Perform in-process inspections using gauges, calipers, and other measurement tools.
• Maintain accurate records of machine settings and process parameters for each job.
• Assist engineers with process trials, tool qualifications, and sample runs.
• Support preventive maintenance activities and minor mechanical repairs.
• Create and update documentation such as setup sheets, process logs, and troubleshooting guides.
• Collaborate with Quality and Engineering teams to address non-conformances and implement corrective actions.
• Train and support machine operators on process best practices and standard work.
• Contribute to safety and environmental initiatives by following procedures and recommending improvements.
• Participate in continuous improvement projects to improve efficiency, part quality, and machine uptime.
• Ensure compliance with company Quality Management System and Environmental Management System policies.

Requirements

• Certificate or associate degree in Plastics Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 3–5 years of hands‑on experience with injection molding, extrusion, or blow molding processes.
• Strong understanding of plastic materials, tooling, and processing principles.
• Familiar with reading blueprints, part drawings, and technical documentation.
• Experience using measurement devices (e.g., calipers, micrometers, gauges).
• Working knowledge of Process Flow and Control Plans preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude with ability to use hand tools and perform minor machine maintenance.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams.
• Computer proficiency in basic data entry, spreadsheets, and documentation software.
• Self‑starter with strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.

What We Offer

• Medical, dental, prescription, vision, life and disability insurance; and a flexible spending account
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
• Extensive safety training, new hire orientation, continuous learning and development programs and tuition reimbursement
• Paid holidays and vacation time

Employee Testimonials

• “It engages you professionally, and provides learning opportunities.”
• “Lots of growth opportunity.”
• “The company’s young enough to be exciting, but old enough to be stable.”

Not just a job—a great place to work!

Flex‑N‑Gate is an equal opportunity employer. EEO/Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled.