Plastics Engineer

PRIMARY FUNCTION:

Responsible for assisting in the development of manufacturing engineering specifications along with the procurement, design and/or fabrication of manufacturing equipment, tooling and processes to produce high quality extruded product. The Plastics Engineer is responsible for coordinating efforts on new product launches, setting up and/or revising manufacturing processes and assisting the manufacturing operations in problem solving and continuous process improvements.

SPECIFIC DUTIES:

1) In conjunction with other technical staff members, develop value stream strategies of modified or new machines and equipment that will positively impact key business metrics of quality and cost; including the design or procurement and development of fixtures, machinery and/or tooling.

2) Conduct or participate in kaizen activities to analyze work force utilization, space requirements, workflow, and design layout of equipment for maximum efficiency of cell manufacturing.

3) Develop and implement lean strategies, which drive teams and projects, identify and eliminate waste, concentrate on set up reduction, and implement solutions while tracking and communicating results.

4) Recognize and plan the use of appropriate tools, machines and fixtures, implement processes and follow up the results of the process.

5) Provide detailed manufacturing documentation including tool and fixture drawings, definition of setup, and operational procedures.

6) Test ability of machines to perform designated tasks. Confer with establishment personnel to implement operating procedures and resolve system malfunctions.

7) Provide periodic reports, maintain required records and files consistent with ISO standards.

8) Demonstrated ability to start-up, operate and shut down process related equipment. Must be able to work independently on new process development as well as troubleshooting current production issues.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Displays original thinking and creativity; Meets challenges with resourcefulness; generates suggestions for improving work; develops innovative approaches and ideas. Develops project plans; Communicates changes and progress; Completes projects on time and within budget. Ability to effectively relate and communicate at all levels of the organization. Self-motivated; Undertakes self-development activities; Seeks increased responsibilities; Takes independent actions and calculated risks; Looks for and takes advantage of opportunities.

EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree in Plastics or Mechanical Engineering or related discipline with one to three years of manufacturing experience.

EXPERIENCE

Must have a working knowledge of extrusion and/or injection molding equipment with the ability to develop and implement sound lean manufacturing practices. Experience with ProE (or equivalent) and AutoCAD design software. Proficient with Microsoft Windows, Word and Excel. Experience with a Resource Management System is desired. Experience with tooling design and knowledge of machining practices. Previous "Lean" manufacturing experience and exposure to diverse manufacturing processes and materials.