Assembly Line Process Engineer in Pearland, Texas at Solvchem Inc.

The mission of the Process Engineer is to design, optimize, standardize, and continuously improve manufacturing assembly processes to increase efficiency, improve product quality, reduce waste and operating costs, enhance safety, and support reliable production performance. This role analyzes production data, applies Lean and Six Sigma principles, develops standardized processes, and collaborates with cross-functional teams to improve equipment, automation, workflows, and overall assembly line effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze existing assembly line workflows to eliminate bottlenecks and reduce cycle times.
• Implement Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping) to minimize waste.
• Conduct time and motion studies to establish standard work instructions and line balancing.
• Design, evaluate, and implement assembly tooling, fixtures, and automated equipment.
• Collaborate with automation engineers to integrate robotics, sensors, and PLC systems into the assembly line.
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and qualification of new manufacturing equipment.
• Identify root causes of production defects using tools like FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) and 6M problem-solving.
• Establish and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) and scrap rates.
• Work closely with the Quality Assurance team to ensure products meet regulatory and internal standards.
• Create and maintain detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs), manufacturing routing, and rework instructions.
• Train assembly line operators and technicians on new processes, tooling, and safety protocols.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field, required.
• 0-3 years of experience as a process or manufacturing engineer, specifically within a high-volume assembly line environment.
• Ability to work on-site in Greater Houston, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and communicate clearly in both technical and non-technical contexts.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish is highly preferred.
• Certifications in Lean Six Sigma (Green or Black Belt) are highly preferred.

Preferred Background

• Experience in a high-volume assembly line or manufacturing environment highly preferred.
• Experience in chemical manufacturing, distribution, or related industrial environment, with familiarity with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards (e.g., OSHA, EPA, NACD Responsible Distribution) highly preferred.
• Experience applying Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, continuous improvement, or process optimization methodologies highly preferred.
• Experience with automation, robotics, sensors, and PLC control systems preferred.
• Experience with data analysis software, including Minitab or similar analytical tools, preferred.
• Experience with ERP, MES, or related manufacturing business systems preferred.
• Experience developing SOPs, work instructions, manufacturing routings, or process documentation preferred.

Desired Skills and Competencies

• Advanced Analytical Skills to interpret data, diagnose process issues, conduct root cause analysis, and recommend effective process improvements.
• Proficiency in Process Design and Process Control, including developing process flow diagrams, specifying equipment, and establishing control strategies for safe and reliable operation.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and capability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, line balancing, standard work, Lean principles, and continuous improvement methods.
• Strong technical aptitude with the ability to understand equipment, tooling, automation, and manufacturing process requirements.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with production employees, technicians, engineers, managers, and cross-functional stakeholders.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic manufacturing environment.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to safety, quality, accuracy, and continuous improvement.
• Proactive disposition with strong initiative, follow-through, adaptability, and willingness to take ownership of process improvement opportunities.