*This position will work in our Chagrin Falls location for the remainder of 2026 and will move to our new Willoughby location around January 2027.
Position Summary:
The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for optimizing process flow and sustaining the production of sheet molding compound materials in a high-volume, automated manufacturing environment. This role focuses on improving process efficiency, ensuring consistent material quality, identifying equipment needs, and reducing waste across all stages of SMC production.
Key Responsibilities:
Process Optimization & Control:
Own and continuously optimize the SMC production line, including resin mixing, doctor blade gap settings, glass fiber chopping, and conveyor speed. Monitor and adjust process variables to maintain stable, high-performance operations.
Material Trials:
Assist in qualifying new raw materials and new formulas. Provide feedback to Material Engineering team with process performance.
Equipment Maintenance & Design:
Partner with maintenance teams and outside vendors to ensure reliability and uptime of compounding equipment, mixers, and cutting systems. Identify and implement improvements, including specifying new tooling, fixtures, or material handling solutions.
Continuous Improvement:
Apply Lean manufacturing principles (5S, Kaizen) and Six Sigma methodologies (DOE, SPC) to improve first-pass yield, reduce scrap, and minimize cycle times. Drive data-based decision-making across operations.
Quality Assurance:
Establish, monitor, and maintain strict process parameter windows (e.g., temperature, humidity, thickening time) to ensure proper sheet maturation and consistent resin-to-fiber ratios. Drive root cause analysis for quality deviations.
Documentation & Compliance:
Develop, maintain, and audit Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), batch records, and process documentation to ensure consistency, traceability, and compliance with internal and external standards.
Safety Leadership:
Ensure full compliance with EHS and OSHA requirements, particularly related to chemical handling (resins, initiators), ventilation systems, and machine guarding. Promote a strong safety culture on the production floor.
Qualifications:
· Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related field preferred.
· 5+ years of experience required, composites manufacturing experience preferred, SMC or similar processes a plus.
· Strong understanding of polymer chemistry, fiber-reinforced materials, and process control
· Experience with Lean and Six Sigma tools
· Familiarity with automated manufacturing systems and PLC-controlled processes
· Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills
Work Environment:
Fast-paced manufacturing setting with exposure to chemicals, moving machinery, and varying temperatures. Requires regular presence on the production floor and collaboration with cross-functional teams.
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Referral program
- Relocation assistance
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
