Process Engineer

Appvion, Inc. (Formerly Appleton Papers Inc.) • Appleton, WI

242d

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated Process Engineer to join our Product Development team, focused on implementing new commercial products and optimizing existing offerings. This role collaborates cross-functionally with Sales, Marketing, Operations, and Procurement to ensure our portfolio meets both customer expectations and internal performance standards. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, brings strong technical acumen, and has a passion for innovation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Paper Science, Chemical Engineering, Coatings Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in a coating, chemical, or related industry; exceptional entry-level candidates will be considered.
• Background in manufacturing, R D, or technical support involving complex products.
• Demonstrated ability to manage varying workloads across multiple projects with competing deadlines.
• Curious, creative, adaptable, and self-motivated.
• Strong communication and cross-functional leadership skills.
• Skilled in trial planning, execution, and providing clear direction to technicians and operators.
• Decisive and confident when leading manufacturing trials or resolving technical issues.
• Able to lead small to mid-sized sub-projects aligned with broader business objectives.

Responsibilities

• Lead the execution of new product development initiatives in the Direct Thermal product portfolio, ensuring alignment with customer CTQs (Critical to Quality).
• Plan and conduct manufacturing trials transitioning from prototype to full-scale production, including off-shift trial support as needed.
• Analyze trial results to assess cost, performance, and quality metrics; iterate designs as necessary.
• Collaborate with Sales and Marketing to incorporate customer feedback and drive product refinement.
• Identify and evaluate emerging technologies and market trends to assess risk and opportunities that may impact future profitability.
• Support operational scale-up efforts to ensure efficient, high-quality production of new products.
• Evaluate and recommend alternative raw materials (e.g., chemicals, paper, film substrates) to improve performance and reduce cost.
• Partner with Procurement to define incoming material specifications based on product requirements and trial outcomes.
• Contribute to achieving annual cost savings goals (target: $1MM+) by qualifying new suppliers, leveraging pricing opportunities, and supporting sourcing strategies.
• Act as a technical resource for Operations and Quality teams to troubleshoot complex product or manufacturing challenges.
• Design and coordinate advanced testing protocols to support continuous improvement and product stability.
• Commit to and execute product development goals aligned with defined project milestones.
• Interface effectively with cross-functional stakeholders to align priorities and commercialize innovation.

Benefits

• Competitive medical, dental, life, AD&D, and vision insurance plans.
• 24/7 onsite fitness center, free of charge.
• Generous annual time off allotment, including vacation (based on company service), parental leave, paid volunteer time, sick or emergency time, and 12 holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement (up to $5,250 per year), scholarships for dependents, monthly cell phone reimbursement (professional positions), and annual steel toe and prescription safety glasses reimbursement.
• 401(k), Health Savings Account Plan (HSA), Employee Assistance Program (available to employees and their families), annual bonus program, referral bonus program, STD, LTD, and much more!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Paper Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree