Process Development Engineer - Printing and Thin-Film Materials

TalentBridge; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing advanced materials manufacturer is seeking a Process Development Engineer to support the transition of R&D innovations into full-scale production in Charlotte, NC. The ideal candidate will have experience in process engineering and a solid background in printing technologies and thin-film materials. Responsibilities include leading process development, supporting production teams, and collaborating cross-functionally to enhance manufacturing capabilities.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in process engineering, preferably in related industries.
• Working knowledge of ink adhesion and surface preparation methods.
• Hands-on experience with printing, lamination, or coating lines.

Responsibilities

• Lead process development efforts for high-volume manufacturing.
• Support production teams with troubleshooting and process improvements.
• Collaborate with R&D and quality teams to improve throughput.

Skills

Process engineering

Manufacturing support

Cross-functional collaboration

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

BS or higher in Chemical Engineering

BS or higher in Mechanical Engineering

BS or higher in Materials Science

Tools

Lean methodologies

Six Sigma

Digital printing technology

Flexographic printing technology

Job description

Process Development Engineer – Printing & Thin-Film Materials

Location: Charlotte, NC area

A growing advanced materials manufacturer is seeking a Process Development Engineer to support the scale-up of R&D innovations into full-scale production. This role will focus on optimizing print and coating processes, improving manufacturability, and resolving technical challenges on the production floor. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in printing technologies, thin-film or flexible substrates, and cross‑functional engineering collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead process development efforts to transition digital and graphic printing technologies from pilot/R&D into high-volume manufacturing
• Support production teams with troubleshooting, optimization, and process improvements for printed and coated products
• Develop and implement test methods, quality specifications, and validation protocols for new and existing processes
• Collaborate with R&D, materials, quality, and operations to improve throughput, reduce defects, and ensure scalability
• Recommend equipment upgrades or modifications based on performance analysis and material compatibility
• Investigate new printing techniques, materials, and adhesion technologies to enhance product durability and visual quality
• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions on process failures and manufacturing bottlenecks
• Author process documentation, operating procedures, and training materials
• Travel to production facilities or partner sites as needed (up to 25%)

Qualifications

• BS or higher in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related technical field
• 5+ years of experience in process engineering, manufacturing support, or scale‑up—preferably in printing, packaging, thin-film, or ink‑related industries
• Working knowledge of ink adhesion, polypropylene or PET substrates, and surface preparation methods
• Hands‑on experience with digital or flexographic printing, lamination, or coating lines a plus
• Familiarity with continuous improvement tools and methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, etc.)
• Strong communication, analytical, and cross‑functional project coordination skills

Preferred Backgrounds May Include

• Digital or industrial printing
• Thin-film converting or flexible packaging
• Food packaging, medical packaging, or label manufacturing
• Adhesion science or surface chemistry for plastics or polymers