Forming Process Engineer

Scope of Position:

Works with other team members to solve difficult technical, engineering related problems. Leads continuous improvement activities, new equipment & process introductions, and cost reduction projects. Supports drive to fundamental process understanding and lowest cost producer objectives. Supports the development and execution of plans to evaluate new technology or improvements in existing technology resulting in a superior product in terms of quality and/or cost.

Day to Day Tasks:

• Provide engineering-level production support to manufacturing operation.
• Solve process issues through data analysis, experimentation, and collaboration with subject matter experts.
• Provide engineering expertise for fundamental understanding of manufacturing issues.
• Follow and drive use of structured methodology such as Scientific method and First Principles in all problem-solving work.
• Lead and/or provide support for projects involving cost reduction, equipment optimization, and new products/processes development.
• Actively engage in plant safety initiatives and projects.
• Develop mechanical solutions and process changes to control and eliminate manufacturing issues.
• Recommend/implement improvements to processes and equipment. Work with production techs to drive equipment/manufacturing standardization and continuous improvements.
• Identify chronic failure modes or issues and recommend corrective actions.
• Provide leadership or support for startup of new equipment lines.
• Develop and update engineering and operations documentation.
• Provide technical documentation and training for operations workforce regarding equipment or operations changes.

Hours of work / Work Schedule:

• 8-10 hours/day; 40-50 hours/week.  This position requires off-hours coverage on nights and weekends on a rotating basis with co-workers.

Minimum Requirements:

• BS or MS in the following Engineering Disciplines: Chemical, Materials, Mechanical, Ceramic Engineering (Or Similar)
• 2 years of engineering work experience in a manufacturing/production environment
• Strong data analysis skills, experience with excel (pivot table) and Access.
• Ability to learn new technology and processes quickly.
• Creative/innovative problem solving.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize work on an independent basis in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Displays a bias for action in situations of uncertainty, addresses issues and problems proactively.
• Demonstrate ability to translate engineering solutions to requirements, then further to process and/or equipment designs which deliver all required and promised performance criteria.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Aptitude and understanding of troubleshooting methods and basic awareness of measurement and process equipment.
• Works well in a team environment, is a “self-starter” and “results oriented”. Thoroughly carries out assignments to completion. 
• Willingness to be hands on with the equipment and interact with the operations environment.
• Ability to drive individual and group tasks across a matrix organization effectively.

Desired Skills:

• Six Sigma Greenbelt or Blackbelt training
• Project management experience.
• Experience with PI manufacturing books.
• Experience with applying statistical principles and using software such as Minitab or JMP.
• Familiar with graphite induction furnace technology.
• Familiar with glass forming processes.