Sr Plastics Manufacturing Process Engineer

Summary

We are seeking a Senior Plastics Manufacturing Process Engineer to play a hands-on role in improving plant performance, equipment efficiency, and product quality in a high‑volume plastics manufacturing environment. This position works directly on the factory floor, partnering with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and Engineering to drive measurable improvements in safety, uptime, yield, and cost.

This is a player‑coach role ideal for an experienced manufacturing engineer who enjoys solving real-world problems, leading improvement projects, and seeing ideas executed on the production line.

Based in Aliquippa, PA and reports directly to the senior engineering manager.

What You’ll Do:

Process & Equipment Optimization

• Improve performance of extrusion lines and downstream equipment (including gravimetric feeders and auxiliaries) to increase uptime, run rates, and yield while reducing scrap
• Troubleshoot mechanical, process, and basic controls issues in real time on the production floor
• Design, specify, and improve process tooling and auxiliary equipment to enhance functionality and reliability
• Support and manage line commissioning activities following preventive maintenance events

Continuous Improvement & Data‑Driven Execution

• Drive improvements in OEE, Yield, Availability, and Run Rates across production lines
• Analyze manufacturing data using statistical and root‑cause methodologies to identify and sustain improvements
• Lead and support Lean / Six Sigma projects using tools such as DMAIC, SPC, FMEA, and Kaizen
• Establish and report performance metrics, including yield and SUR results, before and after improvements

Projects, Cost Savings & Capital Improvements

• Lead engineering improvement projects on model lines from concept through implementation
• Develop and execute project plans aligned to SQDC and product stability objectives
• Identify, quantify, and justify cost reduction and efficiency improvement opportunities
• Research new equipment, technologies, and processing methods; work directly with vendors and contractors

Collaboration, Leadership & Safety

• Work closely with Operators, Leads, Maintenance, Quality, and Leadership to identify and implement improvements
• Train operators on new equipment, processes, and best practices
• Uphold and promote a Zero Harm safety culture
• Participate in plant performance, engineering, and project meetings

What You’ll Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Manufacturing, Plastics, Electrical, or similar)
• 5-7+ years of manufacturing plant experience.
• Lean Six Sigma experience desirable.
• Knowledge of plastics processing, or extrusion, injection or blow molding, and continuous experience (preferred)
• Strong background in manufacturing systems, data collection and statistical analysis.
• Demonstrated success in interfacing with internal (manufacturing, engineering, quality) and external (contractors, vendors) customers.

What You’ll Receive:

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $99,000 to $112,000. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and internal equity and may change over time. This position qualifies for benefits and you will be eligible to participate in a bonus plan.

At James Hardie, we recognize that our success depends on our people. We've worked hard to build a generous and competitive benefits program that demonstrates our commitment to our employees.

• Compensation: competitive salary and bonus eligibility
• Insurance: health coverage medical, dental, vision, life insurance
• Paid Time Off: vacation and company holidays
• Retirement: 401(k) with match
• Work-Life Balance: parental leave, wellness programs
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