Engineering Manager - Converting and Film

Pregis•Sussex, WI

17h

About The Position

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Sr. Project Engineer to lead our Films and Converting engineering team across two manufacturing plants. This role is critical in driving continuous improvement, capital upgrades, process automation, and technical excellence in our extrusion, printing, and converting departments for poly bag operations. The ideal candidate brings a solid background in mechanical and electrical engineering, controls and automation, and a strong understanding of film and web-handling equipment. In addition, the individual will come with a proven track record in designing, developing, and optimizing converting equipment for the flexible packing industry. This role will provide technical leadership, drive cross-functional initiatives with New Product Development (NPD) and Process Engineering, and ensure standardization and safety across all platforms. In addition, this is a true working manager role, so the individual must be willing and excited to roll up their sleeves to execute.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering (required).
10+ years of experience in equipment engineering, film extrusion, printing, and web converting processes.
Technical expertise in mechanical and automation design to deliver innovative, reliable, and cost-effective upgrades or improvements that drive operational requirements (fed from process, manufacturing, and quality teams).
Equipment development expertise in concept design, prototyping, testing, up to full-scale manufacturing of machinery (mechanical, electrical, and control systems).
Industry knowledge in flexible packaging substrates enabling equipment designs that optimize quality, speed, and performance.
Innovation/problem-solving skills to create improved designs that enhance throughput, quality, reduce waste, and increase overall efficiency, with an eye toward recyclability and next-gen materials.
Skills to work cross-functionally and that includes working with outside vendors to source, manage and oversee component/assemblies or upgrades in converting equipment.
Strong knowledge of machine design, controls systems (PLC/HMI/SCADA), and automation.
Experience with web handling, bag converting equipment, and flexible packaging systems.
Demonstrated success leading CI projects, including OEE improvements, downtime reduction, and process optimization.
Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or equivalent) for equipment and plant layout.
Excellent vendor management and project execution skills.
Strong commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

Lead, build, and develop a high-performing engineering team supporting extrusion, printing, and converting operations.
Proactively identify process improvement opportunities and lead the implementation of effective solutions to enhance operational efficiency and product quality.
Own and drive continuous improvement and efficiency initiatives across production lines.
Support both plant locations on process optimization, quality improvements, automation upgrades, and troubleshooting.
Provide technical guidance in new product development, material trials, and product scale-up activities.
Partner closely with NPD and Process Engineering to align engineering resources and priorities within the New Product Commercialization process.
Oversee development, installation, and commissioning of new converting lines and equipment upgrades.
Drive standardization across all converting platforms to improve repeatability, maintainability, and operator safety.
Manage external vendors for equipment design, build, and integration—ensuring quality, cost-effectiveness, and timeliness.
Ensure all equipment and systems meet regulatory and internal safety standards.
Leverage CAD tools and technical design capabilities to support equipment design and layout planning.
Support training and capability building for plant maintenance and operations teams.