Process Technician - Plastic Systems

Greif • Alsip, IL

73d • $78,000 - $133,100

About The Position

Founded in 1877, Greif is a global leader in performance packaging located in 40 countries. The company delivers trusted, innovative, and tailored solutions that support some of the world's most demanding and fastest-growing industries. With a commitment to legendary customer service, operational excellence, and global sustainability, Greif packages life's essentials - and creates lasting value for its colleagues, customers, and other stakeholders. The Process Technician is responsible for overseeing and optimizing the process control of plastic manufacturing equipment. This role provides overall process design and measures for improvement of manufacturing, thereby increasing productivity and reducing manufacturing costs. This role ensures the safe and efficient use of personnel, equipment, raw materials, and supplies in the production of high-quality plastic drums. The Process Technician also supports the implementation of new equipment and processes as well as continuous improvement efforts.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Vocational training or associate degree in plastics technology preferred.
• A bachelor's degree in a related field is a plus.
• Strong mechanical skills including knowledge of electrical, pneumatics, hydraulics, air compressors, chillers and PLCs with the ability to make required adjustments.
• Able to troubleshoot machine maintenance issues as they arise.
• Demonstrated success in cycle time optimization and identifying cost savings.
• Strengths in Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement.
• Strong understanding of plastics materials, manufacturing processes, and machinery operations.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality assurance.
• Problem solving skills: Capability to troubleshoot and resolve production issues.
• Good communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Adherence to safety protocols and regulations in a manufacturing setting.
• Ability to make process changes to ensure production of high-quality products.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft applications.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and promote an active and effective plant safety program, ensuring compliance with all safety regulations and practices.
• Maintain and develop processes to increase machine efficiencies and improve profits.
• Provide overall process design and measures for improvement of manufacturing, increasing productivity and reducing manufacturing costs.
• Continuously adjust and monitor plastic manufacturing equipment to ensure consistent and efficient production.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve material yield.
• Execute color changes in the production process efficiently and accurately.
• Collaborate with Maintenance and Production on the implementation of new systems and processes to limit the recurrence of non-conforming products.
• Monitor production processes for improvement, identifying areas for enhancement.
• Track and measure all production improvement processes with the Plant Engineer.
• Propose and implement improvements to enhance Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), focusing on reducing cycle times and improving throughput.
• Maintain and repair process equipment, ensuring optimal performance.
• Conduct machine troubleshooting to resolve issues promptly.
• Assist the Maintenance or Technical Manager to ensure adherence to the Preventive Maintenance Program.
• Perform routine repairs on equipment and communicate the need for major repairs to the maintenance team.
• Ensure all processes and products meet established quality standards and specifications.
• Test materials and products for quality, ensuring adherence to standards.
• Assist the Plant Engineer as required for New Product Qualification, focusing on maintenance vs. process engineering efforts.
• Provide input on new jobs and running in new molds.
• Assist in training other technical and production personnel as needed.
• Proactively establish and maintain effective working team relationships with all personnel, support departments, and management levels.
• In absence of Shift Supervisor, will provide oversight to colleague performance, work assignments and scheduling as needed.
• Helps to ensure that policies, practices, and procedures are understood and followed.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, paid time off, and other competitive benefits available for eligible colleagues effective day one.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Plastics and Rubber Products Manufacturing
• Education Level: High school or GED