Process Engineer

Klöckner Pentaplast Europe GmbH & Co. KG; Beaver (WV); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

kp is a global leader in packaging and specialty film, focused on sustainability and continuous improvement. This role drives waste reduction, yield optimization and productivity across the site, working with Operations leadership to prioritize and execute high-impact initiatives.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential, with hands-on manufacturing floor engagement. The successful candidate will lead cross-functional projects through diagnosis, implementation and handover,

Qualifications

• Lean manufacturing methodologies and continuous improvement experience.
• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead waste reduction, yield improvement and productivity initiatives.
• Assess processes, prioritize actions and drive high-impact improvements.
• Analyze data to identify losses and implement corrective actions using structured problem solving.
• Collaborate with site leadership to prioritize and implement improvements.
• Lead cross-functional projects from diagnosis to handover to Operations.
• Develop metrics and visual management for yield, waste, and productivity.
• Evaluate capital investments to enhance performance and reliability.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma Belt

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical/Mechanical/Manufacturing/Process Engineering

Job description

Overview

kp is a globally recognised leader in the packaging and specialty film industry, renowned for its unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation. The need to act on climate change is clear, so we incorporate sustainability into everything we do by investing in better — creating innovative products that enhance product protection, shelf life and contribute to reducing the overall carbon footprint.

At kp, we are focused on meeting customers' evolving needs and driving positive change in the packaging industry with a focus on quality and sustainability. We are a trusted partner for businesses worldwide.

Responsibilities

• Lead the site\'s waste reduction, yield improvement and productivity programme, delivering measurable and sustainable operational improvements.
• Rapidly assess manufacturing processes to identify improvement opportunities, prioritize actions and execute high-impact initiatives.
• Analyze production data to identify process losses, determine root causes and implement sustainable corrective actions using Lean, Six Sigma and structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Partner closely with the Site Manager and Operations leadership team to establish priorities, remove barriers and ensure rapid implementation of improvement initiatives.
• Lead cross-functional projects from initial diagnosis through implementation, validation and successful handover to Operations.
• Drive continuous improvement through process capability studies, statistical analysis, DOE, SPC and other engineering tools where appropriate.
• Develop and implement performance metrics and visual management systems to monitor yield, waste, productivity and process stability.
• Identify, evaluate and support capital investment opportunities that improve manufacturing performance, reliability and productivity.
• Work collaboratively with Maintenance, Quality, Production and Technical teams to optimize manufacturing processes and equipment performance.
• Leverage the expertise of the central Technical and Business Excellence (BEXE) teams to accelerate improvement initiatives and implement best practices.
• Coach and support operators, supervisors and technical teams in continuous improvement methodologies to build sustainable capability across the site.
• Ensure all improvement activities are executed safely and in compliance with company quality, environmental and regulatory standards.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor\'s degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Manufacturing or Process Engineering (or equivalent).
• Minimum 7 years of process engineering experience within a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated success delivering significant improvements in manufacturing yield, productivity, efficiency and operational performance.
• Strong Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement background; Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification is highly desirable.
• Proven experience leading cross-functional operational improvement projects from concept through implementation.
• Strong analytical capability with experience applying structured problem-solving techniques, process capability analysis, SPC and DOE.
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results at pace.
• Experience working in fast-paced manufacturing environments where responsiveness, adaptability and execution are critical.
• Strong communication and influencing skills with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Hands-on approach with a passion for being present on the manufacturing floor and driving change through collaboration.

What Success Looks Like

In this role, success will be measured by the ability to quickly understand our manufacturing processes, identify high-value improvement opportunities, and work collaboratively with site leadership to deliver sustainable improvements in yield, waste reduction and productivity. The role requires deep technical expertise with a relentless focus on execution to achieve a step-change in operational performance and build lasting continuous improvement capability.

Apply and Diversity & Inclusion

If you are determined and thrive in a fast-paced, accountable environment, we encourage you to apply using the link below. kp values diversity, equity and inclusion and welcomes applicants from all identities, ideas, perspectives and experiences. We aim to create an inclusive culture where employees are empowered to play to their strengths and see themselves reflected in the organization, regardless of race, gender, religion, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, or other protected characteristics.

Important notice: kp will never ask candidates to provide payments, bank details, national identification numbers, or other sensitive personal information during the interview process. If you are unsure about the legitimacy of a communication claiming to be from kp, please contact us directly at [e-mail].