Senior Process Engineer

Plastic Executive Recruiters; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Career security with a multi-year backlog of orders

Influence in process creation

Work with advanced materials and technology

Job summary

Plastic Executive Recruiters is looking for a high-caliber Senior Process Engineer in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. This pivotal role involves leading new product transitions, developing and standardizing manufacturing processes, and managing the validation lifecycle of tooling. The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor’s degree in Plastics, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering, and has substantial experience in compression molding and large-format parts.

You will influence production processes directly and work in a financially robust environment, surrounded by technology and growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in compression molding.
• Deep experience with large-format parts and high-tonnage presses.
• Strong background in tooling validation and process window study.

Responsibilities

• Lead the transition of components from R&D to production.
• Develop robust molding processes and standards.
• Manage the validation lifecycle for complex tooling.
• Lead troubleshooting on the production floor.
• Utilize DOE and SPC methodologies to improve processes.

Skills

Compression molding

Tooling validation

Process optimization

Collaboration with production teams

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Plastics, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering

Job description

Senior Process Engineer | Large Format Compression Molding

In a manufacturing landscape often defined by volatility, our organization stands apart. We are a financially robust industry leader producing mission‑critical, cutting‑edge products. Due to unprecedented market demand, our production capacity is fully committed and sold out for the foreseeable future.

We are seeking a high‑caliber Senior Process Engineer to serve as a cornerstone of our frontline engineering team. This is not a passive advisory role; it is a high‑impact position designed for a technical leader who thrives on the production floor and excels at bridging the gap between innovative design and world‑scale manufacturing.

The Role

As a Senior Process Engineer, you will own the technical lifecycle of our large‑format compression molding operations. Your mission is to develop, validate, and optimize the processes that deliver our next‑generation products to a waiting market.

Key Responsibilities

• New Product Introduction (NPI): Lead the transition of large‑format components from R&D to full‑scale production. You will be the technical authority ensuring that new designs are optimized for manufacturability (DFM) and scalable for multi‑year high‑volume runs.
• Process Creation & Standardization: Develop robust, “blank‑slate” molding processes. You will establish the scientific molding parameters, thermal profiles, and cycle standards that ensure long‑term repeatability and excellence.
• Mold Validation & Tooling Oversight: Manage the full validation lifecycle for complex, high‑tonnage tooling. This includes conducting Moldflow analysis reviews and executing rigorous IQ/OQ/PQ protocols to ensure every tool meets our exacting standards before entering the production fleet.
• Frontline Technical Leadership: Serve as the primary engineering resource for the production floor. You will lead high‑level troubleshooting for complex hydraulic, thermal, and material flow challenges, implementing permanent solutions rather than temporary fixes.
• Continuous Improvement: Utilize DOE and SPC methodologies to refine existing processes, driving down cycle times and scrap rates while maintaining the structural integrity required for our large‑scale applications.

Qualifications

• Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Plastics, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering (or a related technical discipline) with a proven track record in compression molding.
• Subject Matter Expertise: Deep experience with large‑format parts and high‑tonnage presses. You understand the unique rheological and thermal challenges associated with large‑scale composite or polymer molding.
• Technical Rigor: Strong background in tooling validation, process window study, and formal documentation.
• The “Frontline” Professional: A candidate who balances sophisticated analytical skills with a hands‑on, collaborative approach to working alongside production teams in a fast‑paced environment.

This position is based in a thriving, stable region of the Midwest. Offering a high quality of life, affordable cost of living, and a strong community feel, this location is ideal for professionals seeking both career growth and long‑term stability.

Why Join Us?

• Unmatched Career Security: With a multi‑year backlog of orders, we offer a level of financial and professional stability that is rare in today’s economy.
• Influence: You will have a direct hand in creating the processes that define our facility’s success. Your work will be visible, valued, and vital.
• Technological Leadership: Work at the forefront of manufacturing technology, utilizing advanced materials and massive‑scale molding techniques that few other companies can match.

If you are a disciplined engineer ready to apply your expertise to a sold‑out production environment, we invite you to explore this pivotal role.