Process Engineer – Finish Packaging and Automation

Job Summary:

We are seeking a Process Engineer – Finish Packaging and Automation to lead the design, operation, and optimization of finished goods packaging processes within our fast-growing magnet manufacturing start-up. This role will oversee automated magnetizing, part handling, crating, and palletizing operations, ensuring process reliability, efficiency, and system maintainability. You'll play a key role in integrating automation across packaging processes while supporting consistent product quality and smooth downstream operations in a dynamic, high-growth production environment.

Key Responsibilities

·       Own operation and design of packaging lines, automation systems, and material handling processes.

·       Ensure accurate, efficient, and safe packaging of finished products.

·       Oversee automated magnetizing, transfer, and palletizing systems.

·       Maintain SOPs, FMEAs, and process documentation for packaging and automation.

·       Collaborate with maintenance on preventive maintenance and troubleshooting of automation systems.

·       Interface with other process areas to support potential automation integration.

·       Participate in equipment procurement, FAT/SAT, and vendor management.

·       Monitor quality and process metrics to ensure accuracy and efficiency.

·       Train operators and junior engineers on packaging automation and safety protocols.

·       Drive continuous improvement initiatives in packaging throughput, reliability, and ergonomics.

Qualifications

·       Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).

·       Experience in packaging operations, automation, or material handling.

·       Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including data analysis and SPC.

·       Proficiency in designing, operating, and optimizing automated packaging lines.

·       Knowledge of SOPs, FMEAs, and quality metrics for packaging processes.

·       Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced start-up environment.

·       Experience with equipment procurement, vendor management, and training operators.

·       Focus on continuous improvement in throughput, reliability, and ergonomics.

Physical Demands 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and distance vision. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to walk, stand, move, sit, carry, bend, kneel, reach, push, pull, lift, use hands and fingers, handle, or feel and talk and hear. May be required to lift and move boxes or packages not exceeding 20 pounds in weight. Some work stress inherent to the position and extended work hours may be required. 

Work Environment:
The work environment will be a mix of a typical office environment, laboratory space, manufacturing floor and construction site.   

Noise level: 

Exposure will vary and include normal office noise, typical laboratory sounds (e.g., ventilation systems, equipment operation), manufacturing floor noise (e.g., machinery, forklifts), and construction site noise depending on project phase and location.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills required of personnel so classified. The reporting relationship may not reflect the most recent changes to the corporate reporting structure.

USA Rare Earth proudly supports Equal Employment Opportunities

USA Rare Earth's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and will provide reasonable accommodations according to applicable federal, state, and/or local laws.

For assistance applying for employment through this site due to disability, please contact Human Resources, , to discuss reasonable accommodations.