Moulding Process Engineer in Devon, Exeter

TQR are working exclusively with a global Manufacturer based at their Plymouth site to recruit an experienced Process Engineer. As a key member of the Engineering function, the successful candidate will support safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the site's moulding and extrusion processes and associated equipment. The role combines technical problem solving with process optimisation, driving quality, repeatability, and productivity through robust process control, standardisation, and technical support.

You will work closely with Production, Maintenance, and Quality, and will lead technical initiatives that enhance first-time yield, reduce cycle time, minimise scrap by strengthening mould performance, improve process capability (CP/CPk) and advancing machine-setting practices.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, document, and optimise moulding process parameters to achieve consistent quality and performance.
• Lead troubleshooting of process-related issues on moulding machines, tooling and auxiliary equipment, ensuring rapid root-cause identification and sustainable corrective actions.
• Support the introduction, commissioning, and validation of new moulds and tooling, ensuring correct set-up, safe handover, and adherence to the tooling commissioning process.
• Champion the use of scientific moulding techniques and data-driven decision making to enhance process robustness.
• Collaborate with Maintenance and the CI Lead to drive TPM activities focused on process capability and equipment uptime.
• Implement and support SMED activities to reduce changeover times and increase flexibility.
• Support the development and maintenance of process documentation (SOPs, setup sheets, validation reports).
• Provide technical training and coaching to setters and operators to build process understanding and ownership.
• Participate in trials, automation integration and continuous improvement projects that enhance quality, throughput, or cost efficiency.
• Support engineering change management and ensure process alignment with Quality and Validation standards.
• Promote a culture of right-first-time performance, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Essential Experience & Candidate Attributes Required:

• A minimum of a HNC (or equivalent) in a relevant engineering discipline. In the absence of this qualification a time served Process / Manufacturing Engineer may also be considered.
• Proven experience in moulding or extrusion process engineering (rubber, silicone, or plastic moulding environment).
• Strong understanding of moulding principles, tooling design, and machine control systems.
• Hands-on experience with process optimisation, validation, and troubleshooting techniques.
• Knowledge of TPM, SMED, Lean/CI principles and Six Sigma.
• Data-driven approach to problem-solving, comfortable using SPC, capability studies, and DOE where applicable.
• Effective communicator and team player, able to influence across departments and work collaboratively with production and maintenance teams.
• Methodical, safety-conscious, and resilient under pressure.

This is a day shift position working Monday to Thursday 08:30 to 17:00 and Fridays 08:30 to 14:30. Please note, our client does not hold a skilled worker visa sponsorship licence, therefore it is essential that candidates must have the immediate right to work in the UK.

If you are an experienced Process Engineer from a moulding background and are looking for a new challenge, please submit an up to date CV by using the apply button below.

By applying for this position, you confirm that you consent to the processing of your personal data in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for the purposes of recruitment, employment and working finding service.