Process Engineer - Pratt Industries : Job Details

Process Engineer The Process Engineer is responsible for driving process improvements, optimizing automation, and enhancing manufacturing efficiency. This role will report to the Operations Manager/General Manager and work cross-functionally with production, maintenance, and engineering teams to implement data-driven improvements, troubleshoot inefficiencies, and integrate automation solutions. The ideal candidate is passionate about automation, lean principles, and continuous improvement, with a solid foundation in manufacturing operations. Key ResponsibilitiesAutomation & Process Optimization

• Identify opportunities for automation to improve production efficiency and reduce manual tasks.
• Work with controls and engineering teams to enhance process control systems, including PLCs and automation software.
• Analyze production data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and improvement opportunities.
• Support the implementation and optimization of new technologies and equipment to enhance process reliability.
• Troubleshoot process bottlenecks and automation challenges to drive continuous improvement.

Continuous Improvement & Lean Manufacturing

• Apply Lean and Six Sigma principles to improve manufacturing processes and reduce waste.
• Lead and participate in Kaizen events, root cause analysis, and structured problem-solving activities.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for new processes and automation improvements.
• Direct product changes and assist with start-up procedures.
• Support operator training on new automation technologies and process best practices.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with production, maintenance, and engineering teams to develop and implement process improvements.
• Develop and maintain training technical program, troubleshooting guidelines and process control
• Support training of processes for new hires and current employees, keeping proper documentation of training.
• Assist with capital projects, process modifications, and equipment upgrades to enhance operational efficiency.
• Work closely with maintenance teams to increase equipment reliability and reduce downtime.
• Perform all work in accordance with established OSHA, EPA and safety regulations.
• Work environment: This position will spend approximately 80% of the time in a production floor environment of a manufacturing plant. During time spent in the manufacturing plant floor, this position is subject to moderate noise levels, high and low temperatures and other standard elements of a manufacturing environment.

Education and/or Experience

• B.S. degree in Engineering preferred.
• Working knowledge of statistical process control, design of experiments and quality systems.
• Background in continuous improvement process and principles - prior experience participating in and preferably leading focused improvement teams is a must.
• Ability to coach and train at all levels in the organization.
• Experience working within a team environment, and experience in motivating, and leading current and new employees.

Physical Demands While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee may occasionally be required to sit. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Work Environment While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. Pratt Industries is America's 5th largest paper and packaging company with more than 9,000 highly skilled green collar employees dedicated to the environment and sustainability. Pratt Industries is one of the largest corrugated packaging companies in America, with sophisticated manufacturing facilities in more than twenty states. The company operates several of the most modern, cost effective paper mills in the country, as well as a series of sheet and box plants strategically placed throughout the United States offering a wide range of creative packaging solutions. Pratt Industries is committed to recycling and the environment by harvesting the urban forest. Pratt Industries offers competitive compensation plans with incentive opportunities, full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, All State, Pre-Paid Legal, and 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, paid holidays, and childbearing and parental leave.