Process Engineer
Actalent
About the Role
The Process Engineer examines equipment, processes, operations, and procedures to identify and implement improvement opportunities in safety, quality, throughput, and cost. This role leads process development and optimization initiatives, supports production through troubleshooting and continuous improvement, and collaborates closely with cross-functional teams to ensure equipment operates in like-new condition and manufacturing processes remain efficient, stable, and cost-effective.
Key Responsibilities
- Examine equipment, processes, operations, and procedures to identify opportunities for improvement in safety, quality, throughput, and cost.
- Implement process changes and modify operating standards to enhance performance and consistency.
- Evaluate vendor proposals for new equipment purchases and recommend appropriate solutions.
- Select and implement suitable manufacturing processes that support competitive product cost and quality.
- Apply modern organizational and manufacturing principles to streamline production and reduce waste.
- Identify and optimize current and new manufacturing processes using continuous improvement methodologies.
- Work closely with production and maintenance teams to ensure equipment operates in a like-new condition and meets performance expectations.
- Conduct capability studies to assess process performance and stability.
- Perform time studies to analyze and improve cycle times and labor efficiency.
- Develop and refine processes, including creating clear visual work instructions to support standardization.
- Provide ongoing production support and troubleshoot process issues to minimize downtime and defects.
- Drive cost reduction initiatives, including reducing scrap, rework, and cycle time.
- Specify tools, jigs, and fixtures required to support efficient and repeatable manufacturing processes.
- Coordinate projects from concept through implementation, ensuring timelines, deliverables, and quality targets are met.
- Handle daily troubleshooting activities to resolve operational and process-related problems promptly.
- Participate in continuous improvement events and initiatives to foster a culture of operational excellence.
Requirements & Tech Stack
- Experience in manufacturing engineering, process engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- Demonstrated knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Understanding and practical application of Six Sigma or similar structured problem-solving approaches.
- Ability to conduct capability studies and perform time studies to evaluate and improve processes.
- Proficiency in process improvement techniques, including process mapping and optimization.
- Experience with root cause analysis and corrective action implementation.
- Bachelors degree in Mechanical, Chemical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering, or equivalent combined related experience.
- Capability to take a project lead role and drive initiatives from concept to completion.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively across teams.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects with aggressive deadlines while maintaining quality and accuracy.
- Detail-oriented mindset with the ability to understand and manage complex process interactions.
- Computer literacy with familiarity in Microsoft Office applications.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- 2-4 years of engineering project experience in a metal manufacturing or finishing environment is preferred.
- Experience with lean manufacturing techniques, capability studies, process mapping, FMEA, and root cause analysis.
- Comfort working in a fast-moving, continuous improvement-focused culture.
- Experience specifying tools, jigs, and fixtures for manufacturing processes.
- Knowledge of visual work instruction development to support standardized work.
- Proficiency in Creo and AutoCAD is a strong plus.
Work Environment
The Process Engineer works in a manufacturing environment focused on metal production and finishing, where continuous improvement, safety, and quality are top priorities. The role involves frequent interaction with production and maintenance teams on the shop floor to observe processes, assess equipment performance, and implement improvements. Typical work includes conducting studies and data analysis at a workstation using Microsoft Office, as well as using engineering design tools such as Creo and AutoCAD when developing or modifying tools, jigs, fixtures, and layouts. The environment is fast-paced and project-driven, with multiple concurrent initiatives and aggressive deadlines, requiring strong organization and adaptability. Standard professional attire appropriate for a manufacturing setting is expected, along with any site-specific safety gear as required by plant operations.
Job Type & Location
- This is a Permanent position based out of Ripon, WI.
- This is a fully onsite position in Ripon, WI.
Pay And Benefits
- The pay range for this position is $95,000.00 - $120,000.00/yr.
- Competitive benefits package, often featuring comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision) with coverage starting shortly after hiring.
- Employees generally enjoy a stable work environment with opportunities for overtime, 401(k) plans, paid time off.
Application Deadline
- This position is anticipated to close on Nov 2, 2026.