Process Development Engineer

About the Job

The Process Development Engineer will optimize the process design for new products using our pilot extrusion coating line for R&D prototyping of polyurethane-coated fabrics. This role combines hands-on equipment operation with process problem-solving, working closely with Product Development Engineers to translate product specifications into scalable manufacturing processes. The successful candidate will drive process optimization, troubleshoot coating issues, conduct testing, and ensure new products meet performance and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize the operation of the pilot extrusion coating line for R&D prototype production.
• Work collaboratively with Product Development Engineers to execute coating trials, optimize process parameters, and scale processes from pilot to production.
• Maintain detailed trial reports, communicating findings and recommendations to engineering and product development teams. Work safely in a laboratory and manufacturing setting.

Qualifications

• B.S. Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or similar technical field
• 2-5 years of technical industrial R&D experience
• Self-starter with a passion for innovation
• Creative and analytical technical problem solving
• Deep knowledge of polymer chemistry
• Ability to perform hands-on work with industrial machinery
• Curiosity and ability to rapidly learn new materials, processes and testing methods
• Excellent oral & written communication skills
• Knowledge of Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, Statistical Analysis and 5S are a plus
• Global environmental knowledge (REACH / RoHS, Global Harmonization) preferred
• Proficient in MS Office: (PowerPoint, Access, Excel)
• SAP/AS400 experience or similar ERP system preferred

Travel Requirements

• Occasional travel within U.S., with potential international travel as necessary.
• Work on site at location in Forest City, NC.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Annual variable bonus plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Generous benefits package: Health, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, Life, 401k
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
• Employee assistance program
• A rewarding career with greater opportunity for impact

Trelleborg is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, including but not limited to lactation), sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression (including transgender status), ancestry, national origin, citizenship, age physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.