Plastics Manufacturing Process & Controls Engineer (Blow Molding)

Let’s get specific: your impact in this role

We’re looking for a seasoned engineer who blends deep blow molding know-how with strong controls acumen. You’ll tune processes, modernize equipment, and coach teams to safer, cheaper, and higher-quality output—then lock in the gains with robust standards.

Where you’ll be based

• Preferred location: Alsip, Illinois
• Also considered: Houston, Texas

What you’ll do

• Use Lean methods (Kaizen, VSM, A3) to drive measurable improvements in productivity, labor efficiency, quality, and waste.
• Specify, order, and implement equipment and controls; evaluate current assets for throughput, safety, and cost, recommending upgrades.
• Run structured optimization trials; analyze data; set parameter windows that achieve certification and performance targets.
• Apply root cause analysis to daily misses and chronic issues; prevent recurrence.
• Create, update, and enforce SOCs with clear min/max ranges for major equipment.
• Build a rigorous CPE (Critical Process Equipment) program with the maintenance team; audit and maintain asset health.
• Deploy VQS in partnership with Reliability and Quality on each machine.
• Document work thoroughly and publish monthly quality/production reports.
• Develop and deliver process training for operators, leaders, and maintenance; produce training materials and job aids.
• Translate lessons learned into standard practices; replicate across plants for consistency.
• Collaborate with Product Engineering on experiments, prototypes, and samples to enable new product launches.
• Partner with OPEX and cross-functional teams to execute A3 continuous improvement projects.

What you bring

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) required.
• 5+ years of plastic blow molding experience (required).
• Strong mechanical aptitude with electrical, pneumatics, hydraulics, air compressors, chillers, and PLCs.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting maintenance issues and optimizing cycle time for cost savings.
• Lean/Continuous Improvement strengths and a quality-first mindset.
• Knowledge of plastics materials, processes, and machinery operations; safety-forward approach.
• Excellent attention to detail, documentation habits, and Microsoft Office skills.
• Clear communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability and willingness to travel required.

Compensation

The pay range for this position is $101,800.00 - $173,300.00. Typically, a competitive wage for new hires will fall between $125,000.00 to $135,000.00. Offers for this position may vary based on market data and other factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and geographic location. The position may also be eligible for a short-term incentive.

Proficiencies that set you up for success

• Mechanical Troubleshooting Skills
• Pneumatics Experience
• Process Engineering
• PLC Programming Experience
• Lean Manufacturing Principles
• Engineering Degree
• Plastic Extrusion Experience
• Blow Molding Experience

Tools and systems you’ll work with

• Extrusion Machine
• ERP Software
• Blow Molding Machine