Process Engineer

Interactive Resources - iR; Memphis (TN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Interactive Resources - iR is seeking a Blow Molding Process Engineer to support and optimize extrusion blow molding operations and to develop into a technical leader within the team.

You will troubleshoot equipment and quality issues, improve process performance, and collaborate with Production, Maintenance, Quality, and Engineering to implement standardized processes, root-cause analyses, and continuous improvement initiatives while maintaining safety and quality as top priorities.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical degree or additional manufacturing education is a plus.
• Previous blow molding manufacturing experience required.
• Hands-on extrusion blow molding equipment experience strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of process setup, optimization and mold changes.

Responsibilities

• Support, troubleshoot, and continuously improve extrusion blow molding processes.
• Perform machine setup, startup, optimization, and process adjustments.
• Optimize parison control and wall thickness distribution.
• Troubleshoot hydraulic and pneumatic systems and process issues.
• Conduct mold installation, setup, and changeovers; document changes.

Skills

Blow molding experience

Mechanical troubleshooting

Process optimization

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical degree in manufacturing

Job description

The Blow Molding Process Engineer will play a key role in supporting and optimizing blow molding operations while working closely with an experienced Process Engineer as part of a planned technical succession strategy. This position will be responsible for improving process performance, troubleshooting equipment and quality issues, and driving continuous improvement across blow molding operations.

The Process Engineer will collaborate closely with Production, Maintenance, Quality, and Mold Change Process Technicians to ensure safe, efficient, and consistent manufacturing processes. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with extrusion blow molding, strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills, and a desire to develop into a technical leader within the organization.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Support, troubleshoot, and continuously improve extrusion blow molding processes utilizing continuous extrusion shuttle machines and reciprocating screw blow molding equipment.
• Perform machine setup, startup, optimization, and process adjustments to achieve consistent production and product quality.
• Optimize parison control and wall thickness distribution to meet product specifications and minimize material usage.
• Troubleshoot and adjust machine hydraulic and pneumatic systems and develop a strong understanding of their operation and functionality.
• Perform mold installation, setup, changeovers, and process adjustments on blow molding equipment.
• Diagnose and resolve production and quality issues, including dimensional variation, wall thickness inconsistencies, parison issues, flash, defects, and other molding-related problems.
• Work closely with Maintenance and Production to troubleshoot equipment and process-related issues and minimize downtime.
• Conduct root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions to prevent recurring problems.
• Identify opportunities to improve process efficiency, product quality, scrap rates, cycle times, and overall equipment performance.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and the implementation of standardized processes and best practices.
• Maintain a strong focus on safety, quality, productivity, and operational efficiency.
• Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to support new products, process improvements, equipment modifications, and production initiatives.
• Document process changes, troubleshooting activities, and improvement efforts as required.
• Provide technical support and knowledge transfer to Production and Process Technicians.

Overtime

• Reasonable mandatory overtime may be required based on business and production needs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent required; technical degree or additional manufacturing education is a plus.
• Previous blow molding manufacturing experience required.
• Hands-on experience with extrusion blow molding equipment strongly preferred.
• Experience with continuous extrusion shuttle machines and/or reciprocating screw blow molding machines preferred.
• Strong understanding of machine setup, process optimization, parison control, and wall thickness distribution.
• Working knowledge of hydraulics and pneumatics.
• Experience with mold setup, mold changes, and blow molding changeovers.
• Strong mechanical troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with root-cause analysis and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong commitment to safety and quality.
• Ability to work effectively with Production, Maintenance, Quality, and Engineering teams.
• Good communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and respond effectively to changing production priorities.