Process Technician

JOB PURPOSE:The Process Technician is responsible for setting up, monitoring, and optimizing plastic manufacturing processes—primarily thermoforming and extrusion—to ensure consistent product quality, minimal downtime, and efficient operation. This role supports safe, reliable production through equipment setup, process troubleshooting, quality verification, and close collaboration with Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, and Operations teams. The Process Technician plays a key role in driving process stability, reducing scrap, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. ESSENTIAL TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Set up and adjust thermoforming and extrusion machinery according to job specifications and material requirements.Monitor and fine-tune critical process parameters such as temperature, speed, pressure, feed rates, and cooling to maintain quality and minimize scrap.Perform material changes, tooling setups, and machine startups and shutdowns.Ensure proper operation of downstream equipment including trimming, stacking, winding, and conveying systems.Troubleshoot processing issues such as warping, bubbles, inconsistent thickness, flow problems, or surface defects.Assist with basic maintenance tasks and promptly report mechanical or electrical issues to Maintenance.Participate in root cause analysis and implementation of corrective and preventive actions.Maintain accurate documentation including setup sheets, process adjustments, production logs, and quality records.Follow all safety, environmental, and quality standards including GMP, ISO, SQF, and 5S requirements.Support audits, trials, and process improvement initiatives.Work closely with Supervisors, Engineers, Quality, and Maintenance teams to optimize production performance.Train and support machine operators on proper process settings, adjustments, and operating procedures.Provide input and recommendations to improve productivity, consistency, and product quality.PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:High school diploma or GED required.Technical certification or associate degree in plastics, manufacturing, or a related field preferred.Minimum of 2 years of hands-on experience in plastics manufacturing, preferably thermoforming and/or extrusion.Familiarity with plastic materials such as PET, PP, PS, PE, and PVC.Bilingual strongly preferred but not required.SKILLS:Strong understanding of thermoforming and extrusion processes and equipment.Knowledge of plastic material behavior and processing characteristics.Ability to read blueprints, process sheets, SOPs, and technical specifications.Proficiency with measurement tools including calipers, micrometers, and gauges.Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot process-related issues.Basic computer skills for data entry, process logging, and interaction with machine interfaces or PLCs.Strong observational skills to detect subtle changes in machine performance or product quality.Ability to train and communicate process expectations clearly to operators.PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENT:Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 lbs.Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and manual dexterity required.Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with heat, noise, moving machinery, and pressurized systems.Exposure to hot surfaces, rotating equipment, and plastic materials.Must wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection.Ability to visually inspect products and read measurements accurately.Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role. Physical Requirements (ADA-Compliant). PERFORMANCE AND BEHAVIORAL ATTRIBUTES:Accuracy and Attention to DetailDetects small variations in machine performance, measurements, and product quality.Accurately records process data, adjustments, and observations.Carefully follows standard operating procedures and quality requirements. Accountability and OwnershipTakes ownership of assigned machines, setups, and process performance.Responds promptly to quality issues, alarms, or production disruptions.Understands the cost and impact of downtime and scrap and works to minimize losses. Integrity and ProfessionalismFollows safety, quality, and operational standards without exception.Reports issues honestly and accurately.Demonstrates respect for coworkers, equipment, and company property. Communication and CollaborationCommunicates process changes, issues, and observations clearly to supervisors and engineers.Works collaboratively with Operators, Maintenance, Quality, and Engineering teams.Listens actively, asks questions when unsure, and shares knowledge openly. Leadership and InfluenceServes as a technical resource and role model for machine operators.Supports operator training and reinforces proper process discipline.Promotes safe, consistent, and efficient work practices on the production floor. Problem Solving and Decision-MakingIdentifies root causes of processing issues and proposes practical solutions.Reacts quickly and effectively to equipment alarms, defects, or process deviations.Applies technical knowledge and sound judgment when making adjustments. Adaptability and Continuous ImprovementAdjusts to new materials, tooling, processes, or production priorities.Shows curiosity about machine behavior and process interactions.Actively participates in improvement initiatives and applies lessons learned. Work Ethic and ReliabilityMaintains consistent attendance, focus, and dependability.Completes tasks thoroughly with minimal supervision.Demonstrates a strong commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.At Will Employment: This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.

Salary : $25 - $35