Process Engineer - Council Bluffs, IA
H-1B visa sponsorship available
About Future Foam
Future Foam is a leading manufacturer of polyurethane foam, carpet underlay, and comfort products. We are seeking a motivated Process Engineer to join our Council Bluffs, Iowa manufacturing team. This hands-on role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys solving problems on the production floor, leading improvement initiatives, and making an immediate impact in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Conveniently located in the Omaha metro area, our facility offers candidates the opportunity to live in Omaha and enjoy its vibrant neighborhoods, amenities and quality of life while commuting a short distance to our facility in Council Bluffs.
While 2–3 years of manufacturing experience is preferred, recent graduates with strong internships, co-op experience, or demonstrated leadership potential are encouraged to apply.
This position offers a unique opportunity to develop both technical and leadership skills through hands-on experience, mentorship, and in-house training programs. Future Foam is committed to promoting from within, providing long-term career growth opportunities in engineering, operations, and management.
Position Summary
The Process Engineer will support daily manufacturing operations, lead production activities, troubleshoot and improve equipment and processes, and collaborate across departments to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production. The role combines office-based engineering work with hands-on involvement on the production floor.
Additional responsibilities may include product formulation, production scheduling, quality assurance, inventory management, employee training, and continuous improvement projects. Occasional travel may be required.
Key Responsibilities
Manufacturing Operations & Leadership
- Learn and support all departmental operations, including foam production, scheduling, process control, and personnel management.
- Lead and coordinate daily production activities to ensure safety, quality, and productivity goals are achieved.
- Supervise and participate in machine setup, troubleshooting, and production operations.
- Coordinate production schedules with Shipping, Customer Service, and other internal departments.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational performance.
Process Engineering & Technical Support
- Apply engineering principles and process knowledge to maintain consistent product quality and meet customer specifications.
- Develop an understanding of polyurethane foam chemistry, formulations, and binder recipes.
- Design, implement, and support equipment and process improvements.
- Assist with machine maintenance activities and preventive maintenance programs.
- Create and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, checklists, and safety documentation.
- Participate in root-cause analysis and corrective action activities.
Team Development & Safety
- Support recruiting, onboarding, and training efforts.
- Help foster a safe, productive, and positive work environment.
- Assist with employee coaching, performance management, and development initiatives.
- Promote adherence to company policies, procedures, and safety standards.
Quality & Administrative Support
- Support quality control processes and laboratory testing activities.
- Monitor production data and prepare reports, spreadsheets, and documentation as needed.
- Maintain operational records and performance metrics.
- Assist with chemical unloading activities, including drums, totes, and railcars.
- Participate in special projects and targeted improvement initiatives.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or a related engineering discipline, or equivalent industry experience.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
Preferred
- 2–3 years of manufacturing or industrial experience.
- Exposure to polymer chemistry or polyurethane processing.
- Coursework or experience related to process optimization, process controls, or manufacturing systems.
- Co-op or internship experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Demonstrated leadership experience through work, school, or extracurricular activities.
What We Offer
- Competitive compensation based on experience
- Comprehensive leadership development and mentorship
- Opportunities for advancement and internal promotion
- Exposure to both technical and operational leadership responsibilities
- Potential career paths in engineering, operations management, and other company locations
- H-1B visa sponsorship available
Benefits
Future Foam offers a competitive benefits package, including:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 401(k) with Company Contribution
- Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Paid Holidays and Paid Vacations
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- Company-Paid Life Insurance
- Training and Professional Development Opportunities
Compensation commensurate with experience.
Work Location: In person
