Manufacturing Automation Engineer

The Manufacturing Automation Engineer at Polyvinyl Films Inc. is responsible for designing and optimizing manufacturing equipment and processes to improve production efficiency, ensuring the quality of products in a blown plastic films manufacturing environment. This role will also include process engineering responsibilities, where the engineer will assess and refine production workflows, troubleshoot issues with machinery, and implement improvements to achieve production goals and maintain high product quality. This role focuses on improving efficiency, reducing waste, and enhancing quality through automation technologies, PLC programming, robotics, and data-driven process improvements.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement process improvements for blown plastic film production, including extrusion, cooling, and winding processes.
• Continuously monitor and assess manufacturing processes to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
• Analyze production issues, including equipment failures, defects, and process inefficiencies.
• Provide quick and effective solutions, collaborating with maintenance and production teams to minimize downtime.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data from production processes to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Prepare detailed reports on process performance, providing recommendations to management for optimization.
• Ensure that equipment, including extruders, cooling units, and winders, are calibrated properly and operating within optimal specifications.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts and coordinate with the maintenance team for equipment repairs and upgrades.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and process control documents.
• Ensure all documentation is up to date and accessible to the team for training and compliance purposes.
• Work with production teams to identify areas where cost reductions can be achieved without sacrificing product quality.
• Implement and monitor changes that lead to reduced material waste and energy consumption.
• Collaborate with the quality assurance and production teams to implement process changes, conduct pilot runs, and ensure consistent product output in line with customer requirements.
• Ensure manufacturing processes adhere to industry standards and regulations, including quality control systems.
• Work closely with quality assurance teams to meet product specifications and resolve any deviations.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:

• Process Improvement:
• Lead efforts to enhance existing production processes, focusing on maximizing throughput, minimizing defects, and improving product consistency.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as cycle time, material efficiency, and product quality.
• Project Management:
• Manage engineering projects, from initial design to final implementation, for process improvements and new equipment integration.
• Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet all quality standards.
• Technical Support and Troubleshooting:
• Provide technical guidance during the operation of manufacturing processes, especially when problems arise, and support the resolution of process and equipment issues.
• Work with the maintenance team to ensure the manufacturing equipment is maintained to prevent breakdowns.
• Partner with operations to ensure that processes are followed and provide feedback to improve operational efficiency.
• Quality Control and Testing:
• Coordinate with quality control teams to ensure the films meet the required specifications, including thickness, clarity, strength, and other physical properties.
• Participate in root cause analysis and corrective actions for any deviations from quality standards.
• Cost Management:
• Review process data and recommend solutions to optimize material usage, energy consumption, and labor efficiency to help control production costs.

SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes, particularly in the blown film extrusion and winding processes.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong attention to details.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in analyzing production data using tools like Microsoft Excel, ETP Systems, etc.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering or mechanical engineering required.
• Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably plastic films.
• Proven experience in implementing process improvements, troubleshooting, and working in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• 1-2 years' experience with AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT, MATLAB, or Python.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to stand or walk for prolonged periods of time.
• Ability to lift up to 50lbs on your own.
• Exposure to loud noise, fluctuating temperature, and dust.

Seniority level

• Entry level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Engineering and Information Technology

Industries

• Manufacturing

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