Principal Process Engineer - OPEX

Cardinal Health; Chicopee (MA); On-site; USD 89,000 - 134,000; Full time

Job summary

Cardinal Health, a leading medical device company, seeks a Principal Process Engineer to spearhead continuous improvement and automation initiatives within our manufacturing facility. The ideal candidate will leverage Lean Six Sigma methodologies to enhance process efficiency and quality, embody strong project management skills, and foster team collaboration. You will play a pivotal role in driving innovative solutions in medical manufacturing. Join us to contribute to healthcare excellence while enjoying competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Medical, dental and vision coverage

Paid time off plan

Health savings account (HSA)

401k savings plan

Flexible spending accounts (FSAs)

Short- and long-term disability coverage

Paid parental leave

Healthy lifestyle programs

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven Lean Six Sigma expertise (Black Belt preferred).
• Experience in process validation and automated systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement projects using Lean Six Sigma.
• Manage project scopes, timelines, and budgets.
• Optimize manufacturing processes for efficiency and quality.

Skills

Lean Six Sigma

Project Management

Analytical Skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field

Tools

Microsoft Project

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Job Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Principal Process Engineer to join our team and lead continuous improvement initiatives within our medical device manufacturing facility. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Lean Six Sigma methodologies and project management, with a proven track record of successfully implementing process improvements that enhance efficiency, productivity, and quality. The ideal candidate will have a breadth of experience gained from working in medical manufacturing spaces that require validated processes. Specific knowledge of injection molding, manual and automated assembly, and web conversion processes is highly desired. This role requires the candidate to be a highly organized individual with the ability to adapt to changing business needs.

Responsibilities

• Identify and Execute Continuous Improvement Projects:Lead the identification, evaluation, and implementation of continuous improvement projects across the manufacturing facility. This includes utilizing Lean Six Sigma tools and methodologies to analyze processes, identify bottlenecks, and develop solutions to optimize efficiency, reduce waste, and improve quality.
• Project Management:Develop project scopes, timelines, budgets, and resource allocation plans for continuous improvement projects. Manage project execution, track progress, and ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Process & Automation Optimization:Develop and implement multiyear process improvements for existing manufacturing processes, including injection molding, assembly, and web conversion. This may involve optimizing equipment settings, developing new procedures, and implementing automation solutions.
• Data Analysis and Reporting:Collect and analyze production data, ownership and reporting KPIs such as scrap %, yield, and OEE
• Technical Expertise:Serve as a technical expert on assigned projects, providing process engineering support from concept through implementation. Provide detailed engineering specifications, feasibility studies, DOEs, and process‑flow diagrams; serve as SME during equipment FAT/SAT and start‑up.
• Team Leadership and Mentorship:Coach cross‑functional teams, champion a culture of CI, and mentor junior engineers and technicians.
• Regulatory and Validation – Lead or Support IQ/OQ/PQ activities, risk assessments, and documentation to ensure compliance to FDA, ISO13485, and internal QMS requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field preferred
• 4+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment with a strong focus on process improvement preferred
• Proven expertise in Lean Six Sigma methodologies (Black Belt certification preferred).
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Project is preferred
• Experience with medical device process validation (IQ/OQ/PQ) preferred
• Experience with automated manufacturing systems, SolidWorks, and AutoCAD preferred
• Strong project management skills, with a track record of successfully leading and completing projects.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Travel Expectations: 50%

Anticipated salary range:$89,200 - $133,875

Bonus eligible:No

Benefits:Cardinal Health offers a wide variety of benefits and programs to support health and well-being.

• Medical, dental and vision coverage
• Paid time off plan
• Health savings account (HSA)
• 401k savings plan
• Access to wages before pay day with myFlexPay
• Flexible spending accounts (FSAs)
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Work-Life resources
• Paid parental leave
• Healthy lifestyle programs

Application window anticipated to close:7/7/25 *if interested in opportunity, please submit application as soon as possible.

The salary range listed is an estimate. Pay at Cardinal Health is determined by multiple factors including, but not limited to, a candidate’s geographical location, relevant education, experience and skills and an evaluation of internal pay equity.

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Candidates who are back-to-work, people with disabilities, without a college degree, and Veterans are encouraged to apply.

Cardinal Health supports an inclusive workplace that values diversity of thought, experience and background. We celebrate the power of our differences to create better solutions for our customers by ensuring employees can be their authentic selves each day. Cardinal Health is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, creed, status with regard to public assistance, genetic status or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.