Process Engineer – Powder Metallurgy

Schneider Electric•Cedar Rapids, IA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Join a team that produces critical components used in Schneider Electric circuit breakers, helping ensure the safe and reliable distribution of electrical power worldwide. As a Process Engineer, you will play a key role in maintaining and improving complex powder metallurgy processes used to manufacture electrical contacts. This position combines hands-on manufacturing support with project-based engineering work, with an emphasis on new product development and operational excellence. You will work directly with operations, quality, and maintenance teams to troubleshoot problems, stabilize processes, and drive continuous improvement. Success in this role requires a solid understanding of both material science and practical manufacturing execution.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Manufacturing, Materials, Mechanical, or related field)
Working knowledge of: Compaction / pressing equipment, Sintering and thermal processing
Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and solve complex manufacturing problems
Strong mechanical aptitude and analytical thinking skills
Effective communication and collaboration skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office
Familiarity with CAD software (Creo or AutoCAD preferred)

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of tooling design for powder compaction
Familiarity with quality testing methods for powder metallurgy components
Experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment

Responsibilities

Provide immediate engineering support to production when issues arise, ensuring minimal downtime and impact to quality.
Diagnose and resolve complex problems related to: Powder blending and granulation, Compaction using tablet presses, Dewaxing and sintering processes.
Collaborate cross-functionally to contain issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.
Develop, maintain, and continuously improve process parameters and standards.
Monitor process performance and drive improvements in yield, consistency, and throughput.
Analyze and resolve material-related challenges involving: Powder flow characteristics, Shrink rates and dimensional control, Densification and microstructure development, Powder formulation performance.
Lead and support process improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
Conduct structured root cause analysis using methodologies such as 8D and 5-Why.
Design and execute trials for new powder formulations, process changes, and tooling designs.
Serve as a technical resource and subject matter expert within the organization.
Oversee tooling design, procurement, validation, and performance in production.
Support purchasing, upgrading, and commissioning of manufacturing equipment.
Develop and manage capital expenditure (CapEx) budgets for process improvements.
Ensure adherence to quality standards and safety requirements across all processes.
Maintain accurate and controlled documentation, including: Process specifications, Work instructions, Parameter sheets, Change management records.