Process Engineer - Plastics Manufacturing

JSP; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

JSP is seeking a hands-on Process Engineer to support and improve our Detroit manufacturing operation. The role focuses on optimizing processes, troubleshooting production challenges, and driving improvements in quality, efficiency, and material utilization.

You will participate in manufacturing trials, capital projects, and initiatives that support recycling and sustainability while working directly with production teams in a vibrant manufacturing setting.

Qualifications

• Hands-on engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience with extrusion, expansion, and related manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Monitor manufacturing processes and production performance to identify opportunities to improve quality and cost.
• Investigate process deviations and equipment issues using structured troubleshooting and root-cause analysis.
• Develop, test, and evaluate solutions to manufacturing challenges with data-driven verification.
• Plan and conduct manufacturing trials and process experiments to evaluate materials and settings.
• Apply statistical methods and process-control techniques to improve stability and quality.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, quality, and engineering teams on sustainable improvements.
• Assist with the installation, startup of new equipment and capital projects.

Skills

Root Cause Analysis

Data Analysis

Troubleshooting

Process Optimization

Tools

Statistical Methods

Process Control

Job description

JSP is a global leader in innovative foam technology, serving industries including automotive, HVAC, packaging, sports, and consumer products. Our products include ARPRO®, a recyclable expanded polypropylene (EPP) foam, designed to deliver performance, versatility, and sustainability.

At JSP, we combine advanced materials, manufacturing expertise, and continuous improvement to develop solutions for our customers around the world.

The Opportunity

JSP is seeking a hands‑on Process Engineer to support and improve our Detroit manufacturing operation. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys solving technical problems, analyzing manufacturing data, working directly with production teams, and turning ideas into measurable improvements.

You will help optimize manufacturing processes, troubleshoot production challenges, support equipment and process improvements, and improve quality, efficiency, and material utilization. You will also have opportunities to participate in manufacturing trials, capital projects, and initiatives that support recycling and sustainability.

We are looking for someone who is curious, analytical, practical, and comfortable working in an active manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor manufacturing processes and production performance to identify opportunities to improve quality, efficiency, consistency, and cost.
• Investigate process deviations, equipment issues, and production problems using structured troubleshooting and root-cause analysis.
• Develop, test, and evaluate solutions to manufacturing challenges, verifying results through data and performance measurements.
• Plan and conduct manufacturing trials and process experiments to evaluate materials, process settings, and equipment changes.
• Apply statistical methods, process‑control techniques, and data analysis to improve process stability and product quality.
• Analyze key performance indicators (KPIs), production data, and process trends to identify improvement opportunities and measure results.
• Support troubleshooting and improvement of extrusion, expansion, and related manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, quality, engineering, and other teams to implement sustainable process improvements.
• Assist with the evaluation, design, installation, and startup of new equipment, process modifications, and capital projects.
• Support troubleshooting of manufacturing control systems, operator interfaces, and related equipment or software.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, work instructions, and standard operating procedures; communicate changes and provide training as needed.
• Evaluate opportunities to reduce scrap, improve material recovery, and incorporate recycling practices into manufacturing processes.
• Work with global JSP teams to share technical knowledge and support manufacturing improvements.
• Follow all applicable safety, quality, environmental, OSHA, and JSP policies and procedures.