Technical Engineer

About Mid South Extrusion

Mid South Extrusion (MSE) is a leading manufacturer of blown films, specializing in industrial, converter, and food-grade applications. As a family-owned business, we prioritize what matters most – people. We are committed to innovation, speed to market, and delivering custom solutions for our customers. We’re proud to play a role in the packaging that powers your products, from the food on your table to the materials that build your future.

Position Summary

The Technical Engineer will play a key role in supporting new product development, process optimization, and technical service activities. Reporting to the Technical Director, this individual will work alongside commercial and operation teams to develop, trial, and commercialize innovative film products and solutions. MSE operates in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment; this role is critical to supporting our speed to market and the overall growth of the business as we seek to grow with our customers—enabling rapid innovation, agile product development, and winning in dynamic markets. The ideal candidate is hands-on, detail-oriented, and thrives in a collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

·       Collaborate closely with the Technical Director and commercial team to standardize and rationalize current products into a portfolio that enhances speed to market and value for our customers.

·       Support the Technical Director in the development and commercialization of new blown film products and blends.

·       Collaborate with commercial, sales, and production teams to translate customer requirements into technical specifications and manufacturing instructions.

·       Conduct lab-scale and production-scale trials for new products, process improvements, and customer qualifications.

·       Analyze trial data, prepare technical reports, and present findings to key stakeholders.

·       Maintain accurate and up-to-date Technical Data Sheets (TDSs) as part of all technical documentation.

·       Deliver regular (quarterly or semi-annual) film property and performance reviews for internal and external customers to ensure products continue to meet requirements.

·       Participate actively in safety and food safety programs in accordance with company and regulatory expectations.

·       Troubleshoot process and product issues on the production floor, ensuring line efficiencies (scrap, throughput) are achieved.

·       Refine existing formulations for cost-efficiency, performance, and competitiveness.

·       Implement and optimize specialty process and material technologies into our products

·       Assist in the launch of sustainable innovations

·       Maintain accurate technical documentation, including formulations, trial records, and process parameters.

·       Stay current with trends and emerging technologies in films, flexible packaging, and raw materials.

·       Provide technical support to customers, including troubleshooting, product recommendations, and on-site visits as needed.

·       Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and cross-functional projects.

·       This is a customer-facing role requiring domestic travel to manufacturing plants, suppliers, customers, conferences, and innovation partners.

Qualifications

·       Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field.

·       3 years of experience in film extrusion, flexible packaging, or plastics manufacturing

·       Hands-on experience with blown film extrusion processes and equipment preferred.

·       Familiarity with advanced resin technologies, specialty additives, and multilayer film structures.

·       Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to interpret data and make technical recommendations.

·       Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

·       Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative, and ambitious environment.

·       Consideration will be given to overall work experience in this discipline in lieu of educational requirements.

·       Working knowledge of multiple departments (Technical, Sales, Quality, Production, Purchasing) is required to understand the demands of this position. 

Desired Attributes

·       Detail-oriented, proactive, and eager to learn.

·       Strong technical curiosity and passion for innovation.

·       Self-starter with a bias for action and accountability.

·       Collaborative team player who supports others and drives results.

PPE requirements and Safety Rules

1.     Eye protection is required everywhere in the plant

2.     Hearing protection is required everywhere in the plant.

3.     Safety toed shoes or boots are required everywhere in the plant.

Work Environment

This job operates in both an office and plant setting.  This role routinely uses standard office equipment. 

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear.  This position is very active and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling and stooping.  (Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the duties and essential functions).

Position Type & Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position, and general hours of work are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.  This position occasionally requires work on weekends and holidays. Travel out of the office is expected, including out-of-the-area and overnight travel.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.  Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Reasonable accommodation can be made for Qualified ADA disabilities if they assist in enabling the employee to perform the essential functions and duties of this position.

MSE an equal opportunities employer. We want applicants of diverse backgrounds and hire without regard to race, color, gender, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, age, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.