Plastic Process Engineer - Extrusion & Injection Molding

Sonoco Products Company; Union (SC); On-site; USD 110,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) retirement plan with company‑m​

Job summary

Sonoco in Union, South Carolina is seeking a hands-on Plastic Process Engineer to qualify extrusion tools, develop manufacturing standards, and drive safe, efficient processes that meet safety, quality, and productivity goals. You will collaborate with the quality department, assist with training, and support the plant floor while leading continuous improvement initiatives with solid ROI.

Extended hours and travel may be required.

Qualifications

• 4-year Engineering degree preferred; equivalent hands-on experience considered.
• 5+ years of demonstrable plastic process engineering experience (RJG training a plus).
• Experience with plastics manufacturing, pipe and profile extrusion, polypropylene, and polyethylene.
• Hands-on experience in plastic extrusion and injection molding processes.
• Mechanical knowledge of process set-up and molding equipment, including robotics, injection machines, molds, and heat control systems.

Responsibilities

• Work safely in a manufacturing environment following all plant safety procedures.
• Assist in part design reviews with an emphasis on DFMEA and good manufacturing practices.
• Inspect, sample, and modify new tooling to create a stable process ready for production.
• Assist the engineering team in transitioning new projects to manufacturing.
• Implement continuous improvement projects focused on process, part quality, and efficiency, ensuring a solid ROI.
• Provide hands-on support to the production floor, including troubleshooting molds, repairs, PM, and refurbishments.
• Communicate effectively with internal and external customers in a professional manner.
• Implement visual controls and standard work in the department.
• Work with plant leadership to improve safety initiatives.
• Be willing to work extended hours as needed, including domestic and international travel.

Skills

Plastic process engineering

Six Sigma

Root cause analysis

2D/3D drawings

Communication skills

Problem solving

Education

Engineering degree (B.S.)

Tools

RJG training

Job description

Sonoco in Union, South Carolina is seeking a hands-on Plastic Process Engineer to qualify extrusion tools, develop manufacturing standards, and drive safe, efficient processes that meet safety, quality, and productivity goals. You will collaborate with the quality department, assist with training, and support the plant floor while leading continuous improvement initiatives with solid ROI.

Extended hours and travel may be required.