Application Engineer Nonwovens Manufacturing - 1453

SP Associates • Gastonia, NC

36d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an Application Engineer to support manufacturing operations and process optimization within a nonwovens production environment. This role plays a key part in improving product quality, process consistency, operational efficiency, and workplace safety while supporting the continued advancement of manufacturing technologies and production capabilities. The Application Engineer will collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Production, Quality, and Development teams to analyze existing manufacturing processes, identify improvement opportunities, and implement technical solutions that enhance performance, reduce variability, and support long-term operational excellence. This position is ideal for an engineering or manufacturing professional with experience in nonwovens, textiles, roll goods, plastics, paper, or other continuous manufacturing environments who is passionate about process improvement, technology development, and hands-on manufacturing support.

Requirements

• Technical training, associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience in Engineering, Manufacturing, Textiles, Process Technology, or related fields.
• Experience within nonwovens, textiles, plastics, paper, packaging, or other roll-based manufacturing industries is preferred.
• Recent graduates with relevant internships or manufacturing exposure are encouraged to apply.
• Up to 5 years of manufacturing, process engineering, or production support experience preferred.
• Experience supporting or working with: Continuous manufacturing processes
• Roll goods manufacturing
• Process optimization
• Production troubleshooting
• Manufacturing equipment and process technologies
• Process documentation and SOP development

Nice To Haves

• Experience within one or more of the following industries is highly preferred: Nonwovens
• Technical textiles
• Plastics
• Paper or cardboard manufacturing
• Roll-based converting operations
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities
• Ability to work effectively in cross-functional environments
• Self-motivated with strong initiative
• Problem-solving and analytical thinking skills
• Adaptability and willingness to learn
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
• Collaborative mindset with strong interpersonal skills
• Willingness to travel occasionally as needed

Responsibilities

• Analyze existing production processes and manufacturing technologies to identify opportunities for optimization, efficiency improvement, and cost reduction.
• Support and lead implementation of process improvement initiatives using modern manufacturing and engineering approaches.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, quality, and development teams to improve process stability, product consistency, and manufacturing performance.
• Investigate process deviations, troubleshoot manufacturing issues, and implement corrective actions.
• Support occupational safety initiatives and help drive continuous improvement in plant safety performance.
• Assist with the development and implementation of new technologies and manufacturing methods.
• Prepare technical documentation, process flow diagrams, work instructions, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Train production personnel on new process improvements, operational changes, and best practices.
• Support continuous improvement efforts focused on productivity, waste reduction, and operational excellence.
• Maintain communication with technology suppliers, equipment vendors, and external partners.
• Participate in trade shows, technical seminars, and industry training opportunities to support ongoing technology development and innovation.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety, quality, environmental, and operational standards.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree