Process Engineer, Rockford

***Relocation assistance provided for the right candidate***
Elite Connector is excited to partner with a manufacturer for the search of a Process Engineer (or Technician) to join their team in Rockford, Illinois.
Key Responsibilities
Process Development & Optimization
Lead the development, validation and optimization of pultrusion processes and product formulations.
Increase process robustness, reduce scrap, improve efficiency and overall product quality.
Conduct trials, testing and root-cause analysis to solve complex production issues.
Approve new raw materials and manage technical certifications.
Production Engineering & Industrialization
Validate manufacturing drawings, recipes and standard production times.
Maintain and update production parameters in internal systems.
Participate in the industrialization of new products from customer requirements to full-scale production.
Coordinate internal and external projects with subcontractors and suppliers.
Continuous Improvement
Deploy continuous improvement tools.
Analyze production data and prepare performance reports (KPIs).
Identify opportunities to reduce costs and improve throughput.
Training & Support
Train production personnel on new methods, equipment and procedures.
Provide hands-on technical support to production and maintenance teams.
Collaboration
Work closely with Production, Quality, Maintenance, R&D and Sales teams.
Participate in cross-functional projects with internal and external partners.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in
Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials/Polymer Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering
,
OR
an
Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent hands-on experience
in
Electro-Mechanical, Industrial Maintenance, or Mechanical Technology
Experience working in
pultrusion, composites, plastics, extrusion, or other continuous manufacturing environments
Strong understanding of
process control and troubleshooting
, including line speed, temperature profiles, resin systems, curing processes, and product quality
Hands-on experience with
mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems
Basic to intermediate
PLC troubleshooting
experience
Ability to diagnose equipment and process issues, perform root cause analysis, and support continuous improvement initiatives
Experience with
industrial equipment
, including motors, drives, heaters, sensors, pullers, saws, and related manufacturing systems
Familiarity with
Lean Manufacturing, SPC, or Six Sigma
principles is a plus
Ability to read schematics, follow safety procedures, and work collaboratively with production and maintenance teams
Comfortable working in a
manufacturing/industrial environment
and supporting production schedules as needed