Process Engineer

JMJ PHILLIP; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Tuition reimbursement and professional

Employee assistance program

Flexible scheduling

Job summary

JMJ PHILLIP is seeking a Process Engineer to lead manufacturing process optimization, improve production performance, and drive continuous improvement in a fast-paced environment. You will mentor technicians, coordinate tooling and equipment, and support new product launches to enable efficient, high-quality output.

Join a team focused on cost reduction, waste elimination, and process efficiency, with opportunities to impact the bottom line while advancing your engineering career in Grand Rapids.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent experience in plastics tech or engineering.
• 5+ years in plastics processing, injection molding, or manufacturing engineering.
• Strong analytical, leadership, and project management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and manufacturing systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, and OEE.
• Troubleshoot process issues and implement corrective actions in daily operations.
• Coordinate process changes to improve product quality and performance.
• Lead Lean initiatives and drive continuous improvement across teams.
• Mentor technicians and promote a safety-focused, collaborative culture.
• Support mold trials, process validation, and new product launches.
• Maintain process documentation and ensure compliance with standards.

Skills

Process optimization

Lean manufacturing

Data analysis

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Project management

Microsoft 365 proficiency

Education

Associate's degree in Plastics Technology or Engineering

Tools

Moldflow

ERP/EAM systems

Injection molding equipment

Job description

We are seeking a Process Engineer to lead manufacturing process optimization, improve production performance, and support continuous improvement initiatives within a fast-paced production environment. This role is ideal for an engineering professional who enjoys solving complex manufacturing challenges, optimizing processes, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to improve quality, efficiency, and productivity.

Position Responsibilities

Process Optimization

• Lead and optimize manufacturing processes to improve production efficiency, quality, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
• Analyze process performance and implement improvements to reduce cycle times, scrap, and downtime.
• Establish and maintain standardized process parameters to ensure consistent production.

Production Support

• Support daily manufacturing operations by troubleshooting process issues and implementing corrective actions.
• Coordinate process changes to improve product quality and operational performance.
• Monitor production metrics and recommend improvements based on data analysis.

Continuous Improvement

• Lead Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Identify root causes of production challenges and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Participate in operational excellence programs focused on cost reduction, waste elimination, and process efficiency.

Team Leadership & Training

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to production technicians and manufacturing personnel.
• Support employee development through coaching and technical training.
• Promote a collaborative, safety-focused, and continuous improvement culture.

Tooling & Equipment Management

• Coordinate tooling maintenance activities and support preventative maintenance programs.
• Monitor equipment performance and recommend upgrades or process improvements.
• Assist with equipment procurement, installation, and commissioning as needed.

New Product Launch Support

• Participate in new product introduction and launch activities.
• Support mold trials, process validation, and production readiness.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, production, and supply chain teams to ensure successful product launches.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain process documentation, work instructions, and engineering records.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards, safety regulations, and company procedures.
• Generate reports and analyze production data to support continuous improvement efforts.

Prerequisites

• Associate's degree in Plastics Technology, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in plastics processing, injection molding, or manufacturing engineering.
• Strong understanding of plastic materials and injection molding processes.
• Experience leading process improvement and manufacturing optimization initiatives.
• Strong analytical, communication, leadership, and project management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and manufacturing systems.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while working independently and collaboratively.

Certifications (Preferred, but not Required)

• Bachelor's degree in Plastics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Scientific Molding Certification.
• Lean Manufacturing Certification.
• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt.
• Experience with Moldflow or similar injection molding simulation software.
• Experience with ERP or EAM systems.

What the Role Offers

• Salary range: $70,000 - $104,649 annually.
• Quarterly performance bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities.
• Employee assistance programs and wellness benefits.
• Flexible scheduling options where applicable.
• Opportunity to work in a collaborative manufacturing environment focused on innovation and continuous improvement.

Why Grand Rapids?

Grand Rapids offers a strong manufacturing and engineering community with opportunities to work alongside industry-leading organizations. The area provides an excellent balance of career growth, affordability, outdoor recreation, and a vibrant local culture, making it an attractive destination for professionals looking to build a rewarding long-term career.