Process Engineer

Process Engineer

Status: Full-time Exempt

Date: April 28, 2025

Location: Rockwood

Department: Engineer

Reports To: Plant Manager

Position Summary

The Process Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, implementing, and optimizing manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce cost, ensure product quality, and promote safety. This role collaborates closely with cross-functional teams-including design engineering, quality, maintenance, and operations-to support new product introductions, stabilize processes, and lead continuous improvement initiatives. The Process Engineer also serves as a technical resource, supporting existing products and resolving process-related issues.

Essential Job Duties

Review and improve part and process efficiency, including reduction of scrap, cost, and cycle time.

Lead and support root cause analysis and corrective actions for process-related non-conformances.

Develop and document control plans, Flow Diagrams, FMEA, and standard work instructions.

Facilitate New Product Introduction (NPI) projects from planning through production.

Design and implement tooling, fixtures, and automation systems to support manufacturing.

Conduct size change studies and implement process capability standards.

Participate in Gate Review meetings and maintain readiness checklists.

Support cost reduction initiatives and engineering changes.

Develop relationships with suppliers for external work support.

Support sales and customer-facing functions with technical expertise.

Maintain engineering documentation through formal change management systems.

Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements including ITAR.

Review new product prints for manufacturability and accuracy.

Coordinate with scheduling, tooling, and quality departments for launch activities.

Assist in risk assessments for new products and customer specification updates.

Provide technical support to manufacturing departments for existing products.

Lead or participate in continuous improvement and Six Sigma initiatives.

Stay informed on industry trends, technologies, and best practices.

10% / occasional travel to other manufacturing or supplier sites may be required

All other tasks and duties as assigned by manager. Skills and Competencies

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; capable of using statistical tools (e.g., Minitab) and Design of Experiments (DOE).

Proficient in Microsoft Office; CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD); and manufacturing simulation tools.

Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.

Ability to read and interpret technical documents including blueprints and GD&T.

Effective oral and written communication; strong technical writing and presentation skills.

Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in cross-functional teams.

Excellent project management and organizational skills. Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field preferred.

A two-year technical degree with relevant experience may be considered.

1-5 years of manufacturing experience is preferred.

Experience in powdered metal manufacturing is preferred.

Working knowledge of APQP and PPAP is preferred.

Certifications such as Six Sigma Green Belt or PMP are desirable. Physical Demands

Frequently walking, standing, and sitting in both office and manufacturing environments.

Occasionally lift and move materials or equipment up to 35 pounds.

Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.

Visual acuity required for inspections and documentation review.

Occasional bending, squatting, reaching, and twisting may be required.

Non-standard/off-shift hours may be necessary for project support. Safety Requirements

Comply with all company safety policies and procedures.

Participate in safety training, risk assessments, and hazard identification.

Utilize PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and other gear as needed.

Report unsafe conditions or practices promptly.

Promote a safe and clean working environment.