Process Control Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Process Control Technician

Department: Operations
Reports To: Maintenance, Equipment, and Systems Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time, Hourly (Non-Exempt)

Position Summary

The Process Control Technician is responsible for monitoring, controlling, operating, and adjusting all automated plant equipment to ensure smooth and efficient material flow throughout the production process. Working from the central control room, this role oversees equipment settings, material transfers, and production parameters, including extrusion operations and changeovers. The Process Control Technician works closely with material handlers and maintenance staff to maintain consistent quality, maximize throughput, and minimize downtime.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Process Monitoring & Control

• Monitor and control the plant's automated systems and equipment through computer interfaces and control panels, including PLC systems, ERP software, SPC charting applications, camera systems, and automated gates
• Adjust settings and parameters within multiple processes (extruding, granulation, online analytics, metal separators, raw material transfers) to maintain optimal operating conditions
• Ensure production processes run within specified parameters and adjust as needed to maintain product quality and efficiency
• Identify, report, and remove out-of-control processes during shift in collaboration with the team

Extruder Machine Operation

• Set up, operate, and maintain extruder machines to process plastic materials according to production specifications and schedules
• Take ownership of product quality in terms of granulation and perform adjustment measures prescribed by quality control
• Monitor the quality of extruded plastic products by performing routine checks, ensuring consistency in product specifications
• Execute changeovers efficiently to minimize downtime and maintain production schedules

Data Collection & Reporting

• Collect, record, and analyze process data to ensure compliance with operational standards
• Conduct basic quality checks using laboratory equipment (e.g., melt flow indexer)
• Prepare and maintain logs, reports, and records of equipment performance, production output, and incidents
• Report any deviations, equipment malfunctions, or safety concerns to appropriate personnel promptly

Troubleshooting & Maintenance

• Identify and diagnose issues within the production process or with control systems and report accordingly through maintenance management systems
• Perform minor maintenance or repairs as required, or escalate to the maintenance team for more complex issues
• Work collaboratively with the Maintenance Department to perform routine user maintenance on extruder machines and other equipment, ensuring proper lubrication, cleaning, and calibration as needed
• Execute routine maintenance tasks including cleaning magnets, blade changes, changing die plates, removing blockages, and similar activities
• Participate in routine inspections and testing of equipment to ensure operational readiness

Safety & Compliance

• Adhere to all safety regulations and protocols, ensuring a safe working environment for all personnel
• Ensure production activities comply with environmental, health, and safety standards
• Maintain clean and orderly working areas in accordance with 5S principles

Communication & Coordination

• Communicate effectively with the operations team (from raw material receiving to product dispatching), maintenance personnel, and supervisors to ensure smooth plant operations
• Coordinate activities within the shift to maintain steady production and operations through warehouse, unloading, loading, and packaging processes
• Ensure seamless handover between shifts, sharing critical information on process conditions and any ongoing issues
• Work closely with the quality control team to ensure final products meet quality standards and work independently when lab technicians are off-site

Continuous Improvement

• Suggest and implement process improvements to enhance plant efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality
• Stay informed about new technologies and best practices in process control and plastics manufacturing
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing activities

Required Competencies

Adaptability
Accepts constructive criticism and feedback; adapts to changes in work environment; adjusts approach or method to best fit the situation; effectively manages competing demands.

Communication
Exhibits strong listening and comprehension skills; demonstrates strong interpersonal abilities; keeps others adequately informed; selects and uses appropriate communication methods for each situation.

Cooperation
Displays a positive outlook and professional manner; establishes and maintains effective working relationships; exhibits tact and consideration; offers assistance and support to colleagues; works actively to resolve conflicts; collaborates effectively in team situations.

Dependability
Commits to excellence in all tasks; follows instructions accurately; keeps commitments; maintains excellent attendance and punctuality; responds promptly to requests for service and assistance; takes ownership and accountability for actions.

Problem Solving
Develops alternative solutions when faced with challenges; gathers and analyzes information effectively; identifies problems proactively and in a timely manner; resolves issues in early stages; contributes effectively to group problem-solving efforts; demonstrates strong attention to detail, technical aptitude, and ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues to ensure efficient and safe plant operations.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Option 1:

• Bachelor's or Associate's degree (or technical certification) in Process Technology, Industrial Automation, Engineering, or related field
• Experience working with extruders and automated control systems

Option 2:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum 5 years of experience working with extruders and automated control systems

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in operating extruders and process control systems
• Exposure to and understanding of lean manufacturing concepts
• Strong technical aptitude and troubleshooting abilities
• Excellent attention to detail

Technical Skills

Language Ability:

• Fluency in English required
• Additional languages are a plus

Computer Skills:

• Proficiency in ERP systems (enterprise resource planning software)
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to learn and operate specialized manufacturing software and control systems
• Experience with PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) systems preferred

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with SPC (Statistical Process Control) software
• Knowledge of plastics manufacturing processes
• Lean Six Sigma training or certification
• Experience with preventive maintenance programs

Work Environment

• On-site position at manufacturing plant
• Production environment with exposure to moderate noise levels and moving machinery
• Climate-controlled control room with regular presence on production floor
• Some travel may be required, including potential international travel
• Must be able to work flexible hours, including overtime and shift work as operational needs require
• May include rotating shifts, weekends, or holidays based on production schedules

Physical Demands

• Periods of standing and walking on the shop floor throughout the shift
• Extended periods of sitting in control room monitoring systems
• Ability to lift and move materials up to 50 pounds
• Manual dexterity for operating control systems and equipment
• Visual acuity for reading monitors, gauges, and documentation
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders to access equipment as needed

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities but requires coordination and collaboration with operations team members, maintenance staff, and quality control personnel.

Additional Information

The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Team members will follow any other instructions and perform any other related duties as assigned by their supervisor to support operational excellence and continuous improvement initiatives.

Global materials leader with 40+ years expertise. State-of-the-art NC facility. Innovation-driven culture. Career growth. Meaningful impact.

Company Description

About Our Company
We are a global leader in advanced materials manufacturing with over four decades of expertise in developing specialized compounds and solutions for mission-critical applications. Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in North Carolina combines cutting-edge technology with proven innovation to serve industries where safety, reliability, and performance are non-negotiable.
What We Do
Our tailored material solutions are trusted across diverse sectors including electronics, automotive, healthcare, industrial manufacturing, and packaging. We specialize in developing high-performance compounds that solve complex technical challenges—from static discharge prevention to electromagnetic shielding and precision sensor applications. With thousands of proprietary formulations in our portfolio, we deliver custom solutions that enable our customers to build safer, smarter, and more sustainable products.
Our Culture
As a family-owned international organization, we maintain an agile, people-centered culture where innovation thrives and every voice matters. We believe diverse perspectives drive better outcomes, and we foster an environment where curiosity, collaboration, and professional growth are encouraged. Our team is passionate about making a meaningful impact through materials science, and we take pride in contributing to solutions that protect people and advance technology across industries worldwide.
Our Commitment
Innovation and sustainability are at the core of everything we do. We invest heavily in research and development to stay at the forefront of materials technology, while simultaneously working to reduce environmental impact through recyclable materials and circular economy principles. With a strong international foundation and expanding North American operations, we offer stability, career development opportunities, and the chance to work on projects that truly matter.
Why Work With Us

Cutting-edge technology and advanced manufacturing capabilities
Global reach with local impact and support
Career growth through training, development, and professional advancement
Meaningful work that contributes to safer products and sustainable solutions
Collaborative environment where innovation and continuous improvement are valued
Stability and values of a family-owned business with international presence

Join us in shaping the future of advanced materials technology.

Company Description

About Our Company\r\nWe are a global leader in advanced materials manufacturing with over four decades of expertise in developing specialized compounds and solutions for mission-critical applications. Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in North Carolina combines cutting-edge technology with proven innovation to serve industries where safety, reliability, and performance are non-negotiable.\r\nWhat We Do\r\nOur tailored material solutions are trusted across diverse sectors including electronics, automotive, healthcare, industrial manufacturing, and packaging. We specialize in developing high-performance compounds that solve complex technical challenges—from static discharge prevention to electromagnetic shielding and precision sensor applications. With thousands of proprietary formulations in our portfolio, we deliver custom solutions that enable our customers to build safer, smarter, and more sustainable products.\r\nOur Culture\r\nAs a family-owned international organization, we maintain an agile, people-centered culture where innovation thrives and every voice matters. We believe diverse perspectives drive better outcomes, and we foster an environment where curiosity, collaboration, and professional growth are encouraged. Our team is passionate about making a meaningful impact through materials science, and we take pride in contributing to solutions that protect people and advance technology across industries worldwide.\r\nOur Commitment\r\nInnovation and sustainability are at the core of everything we do. We invest heavily in research and development to stay at the forefront of materials technology, while simultaneously working to reduce environmental impact through recyclable materials and circular economy principles. With a strong international foundation and expanding North American operations, we offer stability, career development opportunities, and the chance to work on projects that truly matter.\r\nWhy Work With Us\r\n\r\nCutting-edge technology and advanced manufacturing capabilities\r\nGlobal reach with local impact and support\r\nCareer growth through training, development, and professional advancement\r\nMeaningful work that contributes to safer products and sustainable solutions\r\nCollaborative environment where innovation and continuous improvement are valued\r\nStability and values of a family-owned business with international presence\r\n\r\nJoin us in shaping the future of advanced materials technology.