Process Engineer - Injection Molding

Description

Move Forward With Us

• Develop, establish, document, and optimize injection molding processes for new and existing products. 
• Set up and validate molding parameters including fill, pack, hold, cooling, injection speed, screw recovery, clamp force, and melt temperatures. 
• Troubleshoot molding defects such as flash, short shots, sink marks, burns, splay, warpage, bubbles, and dimensional issues.
• Analyze process performance and implement corrective actions to improve quality and cycle times.
• Lead scientific molding and process validation activities including IQ, OQ, and PQ as required. 
• Establish standard process documentation, setup sheets, work instructions, and process control limits. 
• Support mold trials, first article inspections, engineering changes, and new product introductions. 
• Collaborate with Tooling and Maintenance to identify mold repairs, preventive maintenance needs, and equipment improvements. 
• Evaluate and recommend process improvements that increase productivity, reduce waste, and lower manufacturing costs. 
• Monitor key performance indicators including cycle time, scrap, downtime, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), and machine utilization. 
• Perform root cause analysis using structured problem-solving methods such as 5 Why, Fishbone, Pareto Analysis, and Corrective Action.
• Assist in equipment selection, installation, and commissioning of new molding machines and auxiliary equipment. 
• Train production personnel, mold technicians, and process technicians on established processing standards and best practices. 
• Ensure compliance with customer specifications, quality standards, and engineering requirements. 
• Participate in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and continuous improvement initiatives. 
• Support production during startup, changeovers, and troubleshooting activities. 
• Work with Quality Engineering to resolve customer complaints and internal quality concerns. 
• Maintain accurate engineering records, process documentation, and validation reports. 
• Ensure compliance with company safety policies and OSHA regulations. 
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Collaborative partners. People who build cross-functional relationships to develop best practices and innovative solutions. 
• Dedicated achievers. People who thrive in a fast-paced environment and will stop at nothing to ensure a project is completed and meets regulations and expectations. 

What You Need

• Thorough understanding of plastic injection molding processes and molding parameters. 
• Strong knowledge of resin characteristics including commodity and engineered thermoplastics.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex molding defects and identify root causes. 
• Knowledge of mold design, tooling, hot runner systems, cooling systems, and auxiliary equipment. 
• Familiarity with robotic automation, conveyors, dryers, chillers, thermolators, and material handling systems. 
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, specifications, and quality requirements. 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. 
• Experience with SPC, process capability studies, and statistical analysis. 
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications. 
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems preferred. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
• Strong organizational and time management abilities. 
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects while meeting production deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.

• Bachelor's degree in Plastics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical field preferred. 
• Equivalent combination of education and extensive injection molding experience may be considered. 
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in plastics injection molding processing or manufacturing engineering preferred. 
• Experience with scientific molding principles strongly preferred. 
• Experience supporting high-volume manufacturing environments.
• Experience with process validation and new product launches is preferred

• Intermediate: CAD software, alphanumeric data entry, spreadsheet.
• Basic: Word processing/typing.

• Continually required to stand or walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. 
• Regularly required to reach with hands and arms.
• Occasionally required to sit.
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision

• While performing the functions of this job, the employee is frequently subjected to fumes or airborne particles, moving parts, and risk of electrical shock.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Why Work at Franklin Electric?