At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise extrusion processes for a top manufacturing company.
- Company: Dynamic manufacturing business in Chesterfield with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: £40,000 salary, 25 days holiday, private healthcare, and pension contributions.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the plastics industry while developing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering and 3-5 years of hands-on process engineering experience.
The predicted salary is between 38056 - 46512 £ per year.
We're recruiting an experienced Extrusion Process Engineer specialising in plastics to support and optimise extrusion operations for a leading manufacturing business in Chesterfield. You'll take ownership of process parameters, troubleshoot production issues, and drive continuous improvement across HDPE pipe and compression extrusion lines. This is a technical, hands-on engineering role working closely with Operations, Quality, Maintenance and Production to ensure high levels of efficiency, product quality and process reliability.
Key Responsibilities
- Process Optimisation & Technical Leadership
- Define, standardise and optimise extrusion parameters (temperature profiles, melt pressure, screw speed, line speed, cooling rates) for HDPE
- Lead root-cause analysis for product defects and implement corrective actions
- Improve line speeds, throughput and material yield without compromising mechanical properties
- Support scrap-reduction and sustainability initiatives, including PCR/PIR integration and optimisation
- Equipment & Tooling Management
- Work with Maintenance and equipment suppliers on preventive maintenance
- Support the design, specification and commissioning of new extrusion lines and associated equipment
- Improve SOPs, setup sheets and troubleshooting guides for operators and technicians
- Quality & New Product Introduction (NPI)
- Collaborate with Technical and Quality teams to evaluate and improve process capability
- Oversee trial runs, process validations and scale-up activities for new product launches
- Ensure processes meet mechanical, dimensional and performance standards
Requirements
- Degree/HNC/HND in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Engineering or similar
- 3-5 years hands-on process engineering experience in continuous plastics extrusion (pipe extrusion)
- Strong technical knowledge of Polyethylene (HDPE), melt rheology and thermal behaviour
- Solid understanding of single-screw extruders and gravimetric dosing systems
- Experience with industrial automation and PLC systems
- Strong analytical, problem-solving and process-optimisation skills
Desirable
- Experience with multi-layer co-extrusion
- Knowledge of plastics testing standards (ISO/BV/FM) tensile strength, MFI, density
- Experience improving process capability and statistical process control
Working Conditions
- Engineering / manufacturing environment
- Cross-functional collaboration with Operations, Quality, Maintenance and Production
- Hands-on involvement in trials, validations and process optimisation
- Occasional supplier or site visits as required
Benefits
- £40,000 salary
- 37.5 hours per week
- Monday-Friday, 08:30-17:00 (1 hour unpaid lunch)
- 16-week probation period
- Company sick pay after 6 months
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays + birthday off
- Additional leave for long service
- Christmas shutdown
- Employer pension contribution: 5%
- Life assurance: 1.75 annual salary
- Free onsite parking
- Private healthcare after probation
Apply Today
Process Engineer in Chesterfield employer: Confidential
As a leading employer in the data centre operations sector, we offer an exceptional work environment that prioritises employee growth and development. Our collaborative culture fosters innovation and accountability, while our commitment to safety and operational excellence ensures that you will be part of a team that values your contributions. With opportunities for international travel and the chance to lead critical operations across the EMEA region, this role provides a unique platform for impactful leadership and career advancement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Process Engineer in Chesterfield
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Confidential, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Process Engineer in Chesterfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Confidential specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Confidential
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Confidential, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Confidential value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
