Manufacturing Process Engineer

"We connect science to life for a better future."
With 50,000 patents, 20,000 employees and 58 locations worldwide, LG Chem is one of the largest science and chemical companies in the world. With its rapid growth, LG Chem endeavors to become a 'Global Top 5 Chemical Company' with a balanced business portfolio that has a competitive advantage across the globe, including business divisions in petrochemicals, advanced materials, life sciences, and a subsidiary specializing in batteries.
LG Chem is a leading chemical company in Korea that has continuously achieved growth through relentless challenges and innovation since its establishment in 1947. From the infrangible facial cream lid to the world's most advanced batteries, LG Chem has turned dreams into reality and enriched our lives for 70 years. Building upon a balanced and globally competitive business portfolio, LG Chem manufactures a wide range of products from high-value added petrochemicals to renewable plastics, specializing in cutting-edge electronic and battery materials such as cathodes, as well as drugs and vaccines to deliver differentiated solutions for its customers.
Beyond a chemical company, LG Chem will become a leading science-oriented corporation that creates value for our customers and is committed to reaching carbon-neutral growth by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050 by managing the impacts of climate change and making positive contributions to society through renewable energy and responsible supply chains.
JOB SUMMARY
Reporting to the Production Team Leader, the Manufacturing Process Engineer is accountable for the planning, development, design, and coordination of manufacturing improvements in the LGCOP's ABS Manufacturing plant in Ravenna, Ohio. Specific accountabilities include: Optimizing the polymer compounding processes, improve work flow, ensuring efficiency, quality, and safety across production operations. This role involves monitoring, analyzing, and improving production processes to meet production targets, improve quality, and reduce costs, while ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations. Additionally, the Manufacturing Process Engineer will be involved in business planning, cost management, and fostering a sustainable production team culture through collaboration with various departments.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manufacturing operations support including mixing, extrusion, packaging and shipment of completed product.
• Provide support to all three production shifts, this may involve periodically modifying your work schedule to meet with and work with team members on the off-shifts.
• Assist in achieving manufacturing objectives.
• Assist in technical support and troubleshooting for manufacturing operations.
• Monitor manufacturing variances so that problem solving, and improvement opportunities are identified.
• Provide timely resolution of product, process and equipment problems in the form of creative short- and long-term solutions.
• Maintain financial controls to ensure approved Capex/Opex Budgets are not exceeded
• Assist in development, testing and improving manufacturing processes for new and existing products that optimize operation, reduce product variability and increase yields.
• Assist in planning, coordinating, developing, and executing test protocols, experiments, process characterization and process validations (IQ,OQ,PQ) on new and revised products and processes.
• Develop machine specifications, identify and evaluate suppliers, then procure, install and de-bug equipment from outside supplier for general manufacturing and secondary processes.
• Assist in writing and updating standard operating procedures and other documentations required.
• Consult or provide technical advice to team members on product and process issues.
• Work closely with the Quality Control (QC) team to ensure the production of materials that meet the required quality standards.
• Analyze product defects or inconsistencies and recommend process improvements.
• Implement corrective actions when quality issues arise.
• Develop and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and work instructions for all process-related activities.
• Ensure accurate documentation of process changes and production performance metrics.
• Analyze and manage direct and indirect production costs to maintain profitability.
• Conduct cost tracking and implement cost-saving measures while ensuring operational efficiency.
• Analyze utility consumption and manage its optimization to reduce waste and costs.
• Participate in the development of business plans, production targets, and budget forecasts.
• Prepare and present weekly and monthly production, cost, and performance reports to management.
• Assist in the organization and ordering of inventory in the maintenance of manufacturing supplies and materials.
• Assist in the maintenance and upkeep of manufacturing equipment in accordance with LGCOP company policies.
• Demonstrate commitment to ISO 9001/16949/14001/45001 standard in all business practices by policies and actions. Good documentation practices are key to compliance with the standard along with ongoing training activities.
• Identify and report non-conformances as they are encountered.
• Maintain good manufacturing practices including maintaining accurate and timely documentation.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma) to enhance process efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality.
• Conduct process trials and experiments to improve product performance and operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with EHS regulations and standards throughout the production process.
• Participate in safety audits and risk assessments, and implement measures to mitigate risks.
• Work with R&D, procurement, and supply chain teams to integrate new materials, technologies, and equipment into the production process.
• Collaborate with customers and suppliers to ensure the timely and cost-effective delivery of materials and products.
• Periodically present manufacturing progress and project activities to stakeholders.
• Work with LGCOP team to determine project goals and plan/execute against set project goals independently while maintaining communication with manager.
• Other duties as assigned

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Education/Certification: B. Sc in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Polymer, or Plastics Engineering or other related engineering discipline required.
• At least two (2)+ years experience in a plastics manufacturing environment (extrusion, injection, compression, hot embossing, compounding).
• Working knowledge of the following manufacturing process preferred: Twin screw polymer compounding
• Working knowledge and application with the following concepts; polymer material properties, plastic molding, surface treatment and functionalization, heat transfer, and other related topics.
• Lead by using the MBWA (Management by Walking Around) style to ensure the system is performing. Continually demonstrate the highest level of code of conduct leadership behavior.
• Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills.
• Strong initiative, self-directed and takes action on opportunities.
• Proven problem-solving ability, good documentation skills, and good manufacturing practices.
• Demonstrated knowledge of 3D modeling software and ability to model moderately complex parts is desired

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.