Job Description

Senior Manufacturing Engineer – SMC Specialist

Location: South Bend, IN

Molding Products, a division of IP Corporation, is a leading manufacturer of thermoset molding compounds, including Sheet Molding Compound (SMC) and Bulk Molding Compound (BMC). With decades of experience in composite material innovation, we serve a wide range of industries including automotive, electrical, and industrial markets. Our commitment to quality, technical excellence, and customer satisfaction has made us a trusted partner in the composites industry.

What You’ll Do at Molding Products:

As the Senior Manufacturing Engineer – SMC Specialist, you’ll lead initiatives to optimize and standardize our Sheet Molding Compound (SMC) manufacturing processes. This role will focus heavily on hands-on training, process documentation, and the implementation of best practices for SMC production across our teams. You will serve as the subject matter expert for all SMC-related operations, partnering with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Maintenance teams to improve performance, enhance safety, and drive innovation on the production floor.

Key Responsibilities:

• Train and mentor operators, supervisors, and engineers on SMC molding techniques, materials handling, defect prevention, and troubleshooting.
• Develop and document work instructions, SOPs, best practices, and process guides specific to SMC manufacturing.
• Drive continuous improvement in areas such as product consistency, cycle time reduction, material yield, and equipment utilization.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement capital improvements and process changes that support SMC efficiency and quality goals.
• Track and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) related to SMC operations including downtime, scrap, productivity, and quality metrics.
• Conduct root cause analysis and lead corrective action efforts for any SMC-related production or quality issues.
• Partner with the HSEQ team to support safety, regulatory, and ISO program compliance.
• Champion initiatives to reduce process variation and promote Lean/Six Sigma practices specific to SMC operations.

What We’re Looking For:

• BS Degree in Industrial, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering (required).
• Minimum 5–7 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with at least 3 years specifically in SMC or compression molding.
• Proven experience developing and leading training programs in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of batch chemical processes, compression molding equipment, and composite materials.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Teams.
• Proven project management experience, including the ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage timelines and budgets, and deliver results in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on, “roll-up-your-sleeves” approach to troubleshooting and process improvement.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey technical knowledge to diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, 6S, DMAIC, CAPA, and other continuous improvement methodologies.

Why IP Corporation?

• Positive, challenging, and supportive work environment.
• Freedom to innovate and make a direct impact in a company that values continuous improvement.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, vision, PTO, and 401(k) with company match.

The salary range below is a general guideline. Final compensation will consider the scope and responsibilities of the role, your experience, education, location, and other business considerations.

Pay Transparency Range

$105,818.00—$121,433.00 USD