Process Engineer Rubber

Liberty Personnel
Ewing, New Jersey
Full Time

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Job Details:

Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly skilled Process Engineer with deep expertise in rubber, elastomers, liquid silicone rubber (LSR) molding, thermoset rubber processing, rubber extrusion, and rubber compounding, specifically for automotive applications. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience optimizing and troubleshooting processes used to manufacture precision components such as seals, gaskets, hoses, vibration control parts, and custom rubber profiles for automotive systems. This position plays a critical role in driving process efficiency, product quality, and compliance with industry standards like IATF 16949.

Key Responsibilities:

Design, develop, and optimize high-precision manufacturing processes for rubber, LSR molding, thermoset rubber molding, rubber extrusion, and rubber compounding, supporting the production of high level grade components.
Establish and validate process parameters for molding and extrusion operations, including material selection, tooling, curing profiles, and die specifications tailored to automotive performance requirements.
Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to mold performance, flow characteristics, cure cycles, dimensional accuracy, and surface defects.
Work closely with design, tooling, quality, and production teams to launch new automotive products and continuously improve existing processes.
Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for defects such as flash, voids, dimensional variation, and extrusion inconsistencies.
Create and maintain technical documentation including standard operating procedures (SOPs), process flow charts, and PFMEAs in line with automotive quality standards.
Select and qualify elastomeric materials (including LSR, FKM, EPDM, NBR, and other high-performance rubbers) based on OEM specifications, durability, thermal, and chemical resistance requirements.
Drive process improvements using Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to meet cost, quality, and delivery targets.
Ensure compliance with automotive industry standards, including IATF 16949, ISO 9001, safety, and environmental regulations.
Provide technical support for equipment troubleshooting and preventive maintenance of molding and extrusion systems to maximize uptime.

Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
5+ years of experience as a Process Engineer in a rubber-based manufacturing environment, working with elastomers, LSR, thermosets, or compounded rubber.
Proven experience with rubber molding technologies such as compression molding, transfer molding, LSR injection, and continuous/extrusion processes.
Strong understanding of rubber compounding, rheology, and how material properties affect processing and end-use performance in automotive applications.
Familiarity with automotive-specific documentation and quality practices (e.g., PPAP, APQP, control plans, SPC).
Proficiency in troubleshooting production defects and improving cycle times and process efficiency in high-volume automotive manufacturing.
Skilled in CAD and engineering tools (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CREO); process simulation experience is a plus.
Strong communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally in a team-based environment.

Preferred Skills:

Experience with robotics and automation in molding and extrusion lines.
Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification.
Understanding of OEM quality and validation requirements for automotive rubber components.
Experience working with Tier 1 or Tier 2 automotive suppliers.

Work Environment: