Process Engineer - Plastics

Job Description

Job Description

Process Engineer – Plastics

Build your future with a company that values precision, teamwork, and growth.

Ready to make things move? At IMS Gear, we don’t just manufacture components—we power motion worldwide.

We’re looking for a hands-on Process Engineer – Plastics who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and enjoys solving real production challenges.

In this role, you’ll work directly with injection molding processes, automation, and robotics —helping drive efficiency, improve quality, and keep production moving. If you like being on the floor, owning problems, and continuously improving processes, this is the role for you.

Why This Role Stands Out

• Work directly with injection molding, automation, and robotics systems
• Make a real impact on scrap reduction, cycle time, and process stability
• Opportunity to lead process improvements and new equipment implementation
• Be part of a collaborative team across production, quality, and engineering
• Strong opportunity for career growth in a stable manufacturing environment

What You’ll Do

You’ll be at the center of operations—owning processes, solving issues, and making improvements:

• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot injection molding processes to ensure consistent, high-quality parts
• Establish and maintain robust, repeatable process parameters using scientific molding principles
• Support and improve automation systems, PLC controls, and robotics
• Install, launch, and validate new production equipment and processes
• Analyze and improve OEE, cycle time, and scrap rates
• Troubleshoot complex issues on the floor—from machines to process variation
• Lead root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives
• Collaborate with production and quality teams to resolve issues quickly and effectively
• Support APQP, FMEA, and control plan development
• Create work instructions and train operators/technicians on new processes

What You Bring

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Plastics Engineering or equivalent experience
• 3+ years of experience in injection molding in a manufacturing environment
• Hands-on experience troubleshooting injection molding processes and equipment
• Strong understanding of thermoplastics and mold behavior
• Experience working in a fast-paced, high-volume production setting

Technical Skills

• Experience with injection molding machines (e.g., Arburg)
• Working knowledge of Siemens PLCs and automation systems
• Robotics integration experience (FANUC, KUKA, or similar)
• Ability to troubleshoot electrical systems, sensors, and control panels
• Ability to read electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics

What Will Make You Stand Out

• Experience with scientific molding and process validation
• Strong problem-solving mindset—you don’t stop at the first fix
• Experience with IATF 16949, FMEA, APQP, and control plans
• Continuous improvement or Six Sigma experience (preferred)

Work Environment

• Split between office and active manufacturing floor
• Exposure to machinery, noise, and production equipment (PPE required)
• Hands-on involvement is a key part of the role—this is not a desk-only job

Physical Requirements

• Lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs.
• Pushing and pulling up to 250 lbs. using material handling equipment

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching

Why IMS Gear

• Competitive pay and benefits
• 3 weeks of PTO
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with 4% company match
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Company paid short- and long-term disability coverage
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Ongoing training and career development opportunities
• Employee recognition and appreciation programs

This job description is not intended to be a complete list of duties or responsibilities. Responsibilities may change as business needs evolve.

IMS Gear is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We embrace individuals from all backgrounds and provide employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, or veteran status.