Plastics Process Engineering Manager

MACNY•New York Mills, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Plastics Process Engineering Manager leads the process engineering function and directly supervises the Plastics Molding Engineer and Mold Technicians. The role develops, optimizes, and continually improves blow-molding manufacturing processes to support efficient production, high product quality, cost reduction, and compliance with safety and environmental standards. Blow molding experience is required. The manager collaborates with manufacturing, quality, maintenance, tooling, and product development teams to support new product launches and improve existing processes. Responsibilities also include process documentation and validation, troubleshooting, equipment upgrades and capital investments, and developing the department’s technical capabilities. The position is not remote. Relocation may be available for the right candidate. The stated compensation range is $120,000–$130,000 per year. The Fountainhead Group describes itself as a family-owned manufacturer with more than 130 years of history and operations across four manufacturing and distribution centers.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Plastics, Chemical, or Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
Minimum of 5 years’ experience in plastics manufacturing.
Blow molding experience is a must.
Demonstrated engineering leadership experience, including supervising, coaching, and developing engineers and technical manufacturing employees.
Strong knowledge of plastic processing technologies, including blow molding and injection molding.
Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
Creative and innovative problem-solving skills.
Excellent project management and communication abilities.
Ability to work independently and be self-starting.
Ability to work in a multicultural environment.
Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement experience.

Responsibilities

Lead, manage, and develop the process engineering team, including the Plastics Molding Engineer and Mold Technicians.
Develop, implement, document, and optimize manufacturing processes for plastic injection molding, extrusion blow molding, thermoforming, and other plastic processing technologies.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality, scrap reduction, and cycle-time improvement.
Develop documentation processes to capture process learning.
Support new product introductions by developing robust manufacturing processes.
Troubleshoot complex processing issues and implement corrective actions.
Establish and maintain process documentation, including work instructions, standard operating procedures, and process specifications.
Collaborate with blow mold technicians to improve mold and tool performance.
Develop process validation protocols and oversee process qualification activities.
Manage molding equipment upgrades and capital investments.
Work with maintenance to improve equipment reliability and preventive maintenance strategies.
Develop the Plastics Molding Engineer and molding technicians to grow the department’s skill base.
Promote a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.