Injection Molding Process Engineer

Young Innovations • Earth City, MO

88d

About The Position

Young Dental is a leading designer, manufacturer, and marketer of consumables, instruments, and other items used in the dental industry. The products we create begin as a bright idea either from within our organization, backed by extensive research and development, or are generated by clinical professionals worldwide. Every product we manufacture is subject to strict quality control measures before being made available to a dental office. The result is a high-quality product that provides clinical benefits to the patient while providing efficacy, reliability, and comfort to the dental professional. Young Dental is a wholly owned subsidiary of Young Innovations, Inc., whose sales exceeds $140 million and covers a broad portfolio of market-leading products across a variety of dental categories. Reporting to the Engineering Manager, the Injection Molding Process Engineer is responsible for supporting Manufacturing Operations through application of root cause analysis, disciplined problem solving, continuous improvement mindset, focus on waste reduction, communication and project management skills. This position will participate in and/or lead cross functional teams focused on new product launches, process improvement projects, capital and automation projects, supply chain improvement initiatives. This position will interface directly with all levels of manufacturing and will be accountable for the principle job functions listed below.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Plastics Technology, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in Project/Process Engineering within the injection molding industry.
• Strong understanding of mold design, tooling, polymer materials and processing parameters.
• Experience with project management tools and methodologies.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration.
• Knowledge of CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and simulation tools.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage new product and design change projects within the injection molding process.
• Provide technical input on mold design, tooling specifications, and manufacturing feasibility.
• Oversee tooling trials, mold validations, and process optimization.
• Investigate and resolve scrap, cycle time, and process variability issues.
• Collaborate with production, tooling, and maintenance teams to improve reliability and efficiency.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams (design, tooling, production, quality, supply chain) to achieve project milestones.
• Continuously seek opportunities to improve equipment performance and operations, as well as support the introduction of new molds, automation systems, and auxiliary equipment.
• Develop project timelines, monitor progress, and proactively address risks or delays.
• Maintain clear communication with stakeholders on project status, risks, and deliverables.
• Manage vendor quotation process – request, review, and compare supplier offers to ensure cost competitiveness and technical compliance.
• Assist with tooling reviews and design feedback using CAD and 3D modeling software.
• Support cost estimation, budgeting, and resource planning for projects.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in tooling, processes, and workflow efficiency.
• Coordinate tool repairs and changes, from quoting to toolmaker assignment and production alignment.

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees