Engineering Manager (Plastic Injection Molding)

Position Overview

The Engineering Manager of Process and Automation is responsible for the strategy, development, implementation, and continuous improvement of plastic injection molding and secondary processes, manufacturing, engineering and automation that support the organization's operation and production capability. This role requires a strong blend of technical and project management skills, with a focus on optimizing workflows, ensuring manufacturing processes and equipment meet business requirements, and overseeing the successful execution of key projects.

Essential Job Functions

Process, Manufacturing and Automation Strategy and Development:

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of internal production equipment and manufacturing processes that enhance operational efficiencies. This includes managing the daily operation of a process engineering, manufacturing engineering and automation. This may include equipment utilizing CNC tooling and other production machining operations.
• Collaborate with customers, vendors and cross-functional teams (tooling, operations, and sales) to define requirements for new / transfer programs, and ensure they meet the needs of the business and customer.
• Oversee the integration of equipment and machine operational setup into existing systems and processes.
• Evaluate and recommend third-party solutions or custom-built equipment, ensuring they align with long-term goals.
• Evaluate transfer equipment and processes for potential build specification, repair and maintenance. Then quote new or repair work and manage the work to restore the manufacturing equipment and processes to production worthiness.

Project Management:

• Oversee the manufacturing engineering aspects of key programs from concept to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget.
• Define program objectives, success criteria, machine parameters and KPIs, and provide regular status updates to senior management.
• Lead cross-functional teams to execute program deliverables, managing risks and resolving issues as they arise.
• Develop and manage program schedules, resources, and budgets.

Process Improvement:

• Identify process gaps and inefficiencies and propose solutions to streamline and automate operations.
• Foster continuous improvement within equipment, process engineering and manufacturing engineering to improve scalability and reduce operational costs.
• Implement best practices in process engineering, manufacturing engineering and automation to enhance collaboration, communication, and decision-making across teams.

Education, Training, Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Plastics Engineering preferred, or related field. (Degree not required)
• 7 years of experience in plastics process engineering, with at least 3 years in a technical manufacturing leadership role.
• Proven experience in tooling and plastics injection molding production environments including design, integration, or optimization of manufacturing processes.
• Knowledge and management of areas involving Injection Molding Machines, secondary and assembly processing with automation.
• Strong project management skills, with proficiency in tools such as SolidWorks, Jira, Trello, or MS Project.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead and motivate cross-functional teams.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think strategically and analytically.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and navigate a fast-paced work environment.