Plant Optimization Engineer (Plymouth, MI)

PCA • Plymouth, MI

1d • $83,000 - $87,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is hiring a Plant Optimization Engineer for its corrugated box plant in Plymouth, Michigan. This is a full-time, salaried developmental position for recent engineering graduates, with 0–2 years of experience. The two-year Plant Optimization Engineer (POE) program provides rotational, hands-on technical training in plant Maintenance and Production and a broad understanding of the corrugated packaging industry.

During the program, the engineer completes process optimization projects across the plant, typically focused on reducing scrap, improving throughput, and reducing downtime, and provides engineering support to plant functions as needed. After successful completion, the engineer transitions into a full-time role in a chosen career path, at the current plant or another PCA plant or paper mill with an aligned opening. Typical paths include Production or Maintenance leadership and management roles.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in engineering required before starting the position.
• 0–2 years of previous engineering experience, including internships and co-ops, providing technical support in a manufacturing plant or industrial environment.
• Ability to work first, second, or third shift as needed during the Production rotation.
• Self-driven and passionate about hands-on work in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to travel as necessary and possess valid documents for air and car travel.
• Solid interpersonal skills for effective communication with production teams and management.
• Ability to learn quickly and apply new knowledge.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including communicating departmental procedures, policies, practices, and information requests across the company.
• Strong listening, evaluation, and problem-solving skills; ability to develop alternative solutions and meet deadlines.
• Leadership experience or strong leadership skills and drive to lead others.
• Ability to network and build relationships with people of varying experience and professional levels, both inside and outside the company.
• Previous experience as a team member, or a strong understanding of the importance of open communication and information sharing within a team.

Nice To Haves

• At least one internship or co-op, especially in a manufacturing environment.
• Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Paper Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Engineering Technology; other engineering majors may be considered depending on experience.
• Experience with AutoCAD, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook, and manufacturing systems such as shop-floor software or maintenance work-order systems.
• Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or Statistical Process Control (SPC) experience.

Responsibilities

• Rotate through all departments at a corrugated plant and complete assigned learning objectives and technical training.
• Organize and implement moderate to large process improvements, problem-elimination initiatives, and capital or expense projects focused on asset health and reliability.
• Recommend, help drive, or implement solutions to improve equipment, facilities, and plant operations.
• Attend and participate in POE program conferences and assigned off-site training.
• Collaborate with other Plant Optimization Engineers, plant leaders, machine operators, and maintenance operators to complete projects.
• Work with the POE mentor or manager to develop a career path for after the program.
• Follow company policies and procedures, share useful information with teammates, and identify ways to improve customer service.
• Support PCA’s Commitment to Service by doing what is right for customers, focusing on value-adding strategies that support growth, and keeping promises.

Benefits

• Annual bonus based on individual contribution and overall company performance.
• Three weeks of paid vacation per calendar year, prorated during the initial year based on start date.
• Paid holidays.
• Eligibility to enroll in medical, dental, and vision coverage for the employee and dependents within the first 30 days of employment.
• Life, AD&D, and disability coverage, with automatic enrollment.
• 401(k) plan with pre-tax and Roth contribution options and employer matching contributions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level