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