Plastics Manufacturing Process Optimization Engineer

Company: Pretium Packaging | Location: St. Louis, MO

Who we are

• Founded in 1992; leader in injection‑blow molded plastic containers.
• 20 sites across North America serving brand owners in the U.S. and Canada.
• Known for quality, value, service, and high‑performance packaging innovation.

Role snapshot

Be the hands-on process owner who keeps our molding lines performing to spec—driving uptime, quality, and throughput through disciplined engineering and rapid problem-solving.

Core responsibilities

• Startup and commission equipment; perform loop checks; calibrate; troubleshoot to confirm proper operations.
• Address emergency work orders; diagnose software/hardware issues; implement verified fixes.
• Lead installation of new systems; ensure specification adherence and safety compliance for internal teams and vendors.
• Develop internal quality control plans, including gauging strategies and inspection intervals.
• Support new project setups, tool changes, and program adjustments to hit launch targets.
• Resolve production process deviations; recommend alternatives to protect schedules and meet quality standards.
• Update/modify existing systems (software and circuitry) to meet project goals.
• Recommend improvements for safe, reliable operation of new equipment.
• Audit daily check sheets; correct inaccuracies and trigger corrective actions for anomalies.
• Oversee and verify timely, proper changeovers.
• Confirm preventive maintenance is executed per plan and documented accurately.
• Champion 5S/housekeeping and safe work practices.
• Ensure weekly setup sheets are complete; investigate variances and follow through to closure.
• Lead product quality investigations and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Troubleshoot equipment breakdowns; rebuild/replace components as required.
• Complete machine setups: align/install molds; set cycles, air pressures, water temperatures; position labelers; change/adjust reamers and trim stations; configure material inspection systems; synchronize sequence timing.
• Coordinate production schedules for optimal efficiency and productivity.
• Identify and execute line improvements to elevate productivity and product quality.
• Process new molds/tooling and lock in efficient operating windows.

Qualifications

• BS or AS in mechanical/plastics engineering or related discipline.
• Experience with reheat blow processes and automation.
• Proficiency with Aoki (ISBM/IBM/IM), Uniloy (IBM), and Zhongya (IM) equipment.
• Root cause analysis and hands-on troubleshooting capability.
• Oven profile setup expertise.
• Experience with infeed/outfeed conveyor systems.
• Leadership and decision-making skills; proven ability to lead cross-functional project teams.
• Highly organized, accurate, and detail-driven.
• Lean Manufacturing training or experience.
• Willingness to travel and train as needed across the region.

Why join Pretium

• Make products for some of the most recognized brands.
• Work in facilities focused on safety, performance, and continuous improvement.
• Bring your ideas to a team that values practical innovation and operational excellence.

Desired technical strengths

• Continuous Improvement
• Process Engineering
• Plastics – PA6 Experience
• Plastics – PA66 Materials Experience
• Plastic Extrusion Experience