Plant Optimization Engineer (Salt Lake City, UT)

PCASalt Lake City, UT
$83,000 - $86,000Onsite

About The Position

Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is seeking a Plant Optimization Engineer (POE) for its corrugated box plant facility in Salt Lake City, UT. This is a developmental program designed for recent college graduates with engineering degrees and 0-2 years of experience. The program offers a rotational training experience over two years, focusing on hands-on technical training in Maintenance and Production departments, and providing a comprehensive understanding of the corrugated packaging industry. POEs will work on engineering process optimization projects, such as scrap reduction, throughput improvements, and downtime reduction, and will offer engineering support to all plant functions. Upon successful completion, graduates will transition into a full-time role, potentially in leadership positions within Production or Maintenance.

Requirements

  • A Bachelor of Science degree in engineering is required prior to starting the position.
  • 0-2 years 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 during the production department rotation as needed.
  • Must be self-driven and passionate about working in a hands-on, manufacturing environment.
  • Must be able to travel as necessary and possess valid documents for travel via air and car.
  • Solid interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with production team and management.
  • Ability to learn quickly and put new knowledge into practice.
  • Solid verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate with individuals throughout the company on departmental procedures, policies, practices, and requests for information.
  • Strong listening, evaluating, and problem-solving skills. Ability to create alternative solutions and meet deadlines.
  • Leadership experience or strong leadership skills with the drive to lead others.
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to network and build relationships with individuals of various experiences and professional levels both within and outside of the company.
  • Previous work experience as a member of a team, or a strong understanding of the importance of open communication and information sharing between team members.

Nice To Haves

  • A minimum of one Internship or Co-op is preferred, especially in a manufacturing environment.
  • Obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Paper Engineering, Industrial & Systems Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Engineering Technology is preferred. Other engineering majors will be considered depending on experience.
  • Experience with programs such as AutoCAD, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook as well as experience with manufacturing systems like shop floor software, maintenance work order systems, etc. is preferred.
  • Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing or Statistical Process Control (SPC) experience preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Rotate through all departments at a corrugated plant, completing assigned learning objectives and technical training in each area.
  • Organize and implement moderate to large process improvements, problem elimination and capital/expense projects focusing on asset health and overall improved reliability.
  • Recommend and help drive, or implement innovative solutions to improve equipment, facility, and plant operations.
  • Attend and participate in POE program conferences and assigned off-site training.
  • Collaborate with other Plant Optimization Engineers, the plant leadership team, and machine and maintenance operators to complete projects.
  • Work with the POE Mentor/manager to conceptualize a career path to follow the POE program.
  • Know and follow policies and procedures of the company, share information that would benefit other members of the team and find ways to improve the delivery of service to our customers.
  • Strive to continually strengthen PCA’s business philosophy of meeting needs and exceeding expectations for customers specifically supporting PCA’s Commitment to Service that involves doing what is right for our customers, focusing on strategies that add value and support growth, and keeping the promises that we make.

Benefits

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life
  • AD&D
  • Disability
  • 401k plan with pre-tax and Roth contribution options
  • Employer matching contributions to 401k
  • Paid Vacation (Three weeks per calendar year)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Annual Bonus (Based upon individual contribution and overall, Company performance)
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