Process Engineer jobs in Kingsport, TN

We are a leading developer and manufacturer of mechanical and electronic locking systems as well as car access and authorization systems for the global automotive industry. Founded in 1908 in Velbert, Germany, we are an independent, family-owned company with around 7,300 employees at locations in Europe, America and Asia and achieved sales of more than EUR 1 billion in the financial year 2022.

Your Role:  

Quoting, planning, building and implementing as well as continuously improving processing equipment for our Plastic Injection Molding.  Performing the various tasks of the Process Engineering Department as a team member in order to achieve manufacturing processes within the time and cost targets in mostly self- directed activities as described below.

Essential Functions

• Interact with customer, suppliers and internal technical teams to understand their process/manufacturing Requirements/standards.
• Determinate estimated cycle times on new projects.
• Interact with tool supplier and initiate tool improvement.
• Review 3D Tool design and blue prints.
• Carry out tool trials at supplier
• Analyze mold flow, part advisor analysis, finite elements analysis and stress/fatigue analysis on plastics.
• Design plastics injection mold process.  
  1. ( Establish parameter for an optimal, robust and cost efficient molding process )
• Define efficient sequence for part removal.
  1. (interaction between IMM / Robot)
• Defining of quality monitoring parameters at the production equipment
• Create trial reports and master protocols.
• Analyze date and present statistical analysis.
• Evaluate measurement reports.
• Develop and implement manufacturing specifications and training manuals and document Procedures.
• Recommend measures to optimize and ensure line set up and capacity meet projected volumes.
• Provide training to production staff/set-up tech/material handler/operator.
• Define machine and peripheral equipment and get quotations.
• Assist with the development of concept/design of automation equipment. Including the selection, order and delivery tracking of automation components including:                   
  • . Electrical (sensors, wire/cables, connectors, PLCs, stepper motors, etc.)
  • . Pneumatic Valves and actuators
  • . Mechanical components
  • . Safety Guarding
• Support EOA (End of Arm) Design.
• Carry out acceptance test runs at machinery supplier.
• Track progress of in-house machined components for projects.
• Create/Maintain Bill of Material for automation equipment projects and monitor and compare purchased component costs.
• Set-up, maintain and troubleshoot machines with in-depth understanding of:
  • . Vision Systems
  • . Electrical Wiring
  • . PLC
  • . Mechanical assembly of equipment
  • . Hydraulic system
• Interpret company policies to workers and enforces safety regulations.
• Monitor consumables in process engineering department and re-order as needed. (pneumatic connectors, pneumatic hose, tubing and electrical supplies).
• Remain in contact with vendors to keep up-to-date with the latest technology advances.
• Establish and maintain standards.

Educational Requirements:  Bachelor’s degree in an engineering or mechatronics manufacturing field and/ or 10 year’s equivalent experience.

Experience/Knowledge/Skills:

• PLC programming skills required
• Previous robotic experience in programming and installation of equipment
• Basic machining in mill, lathe, bench grinder, drill press, etc
• Equipment and process validation experience
• Able to understand a broad range of equipment functions
• In-depth knowledge of assembly processes      
• Understanding of process cycle times, quality systems ISO 14000 and TS 16949 
• Strong analytical, numerical, and reasoning abilities
• Ability to work with all levels of the organization

 Benefits:

• Full comprehensive health insurance, dental, vision, flexible spending account
• Disability insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid Time Off

If you are interested in becoming a member of our organization, please apply online at http://careers.hufna.com 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.