Materials Processing SME Manager

CSP (Teijin Automotive Technologies)•Auburn Hills, MI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

CSP is a leader in the formulation and molding of lightweight, advanced composite components for the transportation industries. This role serves as the primary technical authority on composite molding processes, focusing on standard development and compliance. The manager will support and lead new programs and material launches across various locations, conduct best practice audits, and develop competency-based training programs. Responsibilities also include evaluating trial materials, documenting findings, collaborating with senior engineering resources for manufacturability, troubleshooting manufacturing issues, and driving productivity improvements. The position requires utilizing specialized monitoring equipment, conducting laboratory and plant trials, interpreting engineering drawings, analyzing technical data, and collaborating cross-functionally with R&D, operations, and commercial teams. Adherence to company safety and travel policies is essential.

Requirements

Minimum of 2 years of engineering experience
Focus or experience in polymers, plastics, or organic chemistry
Experience with compression molding, bonding equipment, paint systems, and vacuum systems
Experience working in manufacturing or automotive environments
Strong hands-on technical and problem-solving skills
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Adaptability to changing priorities and work environments
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Experience with statistical analysis tools (e.g., Minitab)
Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or related field

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary technical authority on composite molding processes, with a focus on standard development and compliance
Support and lead new programs and material launches across tool shops, manufacturing plants, and customer locations
Conduct “Best Practice” surveillance audits with countermeasure oversight at the manufacturing plants
Develop a competency-based training program to address proficiency level gaps at manufacturing locations
Evaluate molding performance of trial materials from R&D suppliers, and raw material manufacturers
Document trial results, observations, and findings using reports and presentations
Collaborate with senior engineering resources to ensure manufacturability of composite components (DFM/DFA)
Troubleshoot manufacturing issues, perform root cause analysis, and drive productivity improvements
Utilize specialized monitoring equipment to evaluate and optimize molding processes
Conduct laboratory and plant trials, including Design of Experiments (DOE)
Interpret engineering drawings and material specifications to support development activities
Collect, analyze, and present technical data to stakeholders
Support advanced testing methods for Class A surface evaluation
Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, operations, and commercial teams
Ensure adherence to company safety and travel policies