A Manufacturing Engineer II specializing in extrusion is a critical mid-level engineering professional focused on the heart of polymer and composite material production. This role sits at the intersection of design, process optimization, and day-to-day manufacturing excellence, making it a sought-after position for engineers passionate about hands-on problem-solving and continuous improvement. For professionals seeking to advance their technical careers, extrusion engineer jobs offer a dynamic environment where material science meets practical application. Typically, individuals in this profession are responsible for the entire extrusion process lifecycle. This begins with the selection, specification, and installation of extrusion equipment, including complex tooling like dies and screws. A core duty involves developing and optimizing process parameters—such as temperature, pressure, and line speed—to achieve target product quality, dimensional consistency, and production throughput. They are the primary troubleshooters, diagnosing and resolving issues related to material flow, output rates, and final product defects to minimize downtime. Furthermore, Manufacturing Engineer II roles require the design and execution of experiments to evaluate new materials, processes, or equipment upgrades, driving innovation on the production floor. Beyond the machinery, these engineers are stewards of quality and efficiency. They develop and maintain comprehensive process documentation, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and work instructions, and are responsible for training production operators to ensure consistent, safe practices. Utilizing statistical process control (SPC), capability studies (Cp/Cpk), and other quality tools is standard for monitoring performance and implementing corrective actions. A strong emphasis on lean manufacturing principles is common, aiming to reduce waste and enhance overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). Collaboration is key, as these engineers regularly work with cross-functional teams including R&D, quality assurance, maintenance, and supply chain to launch new products and resolve systemic production challenges. The typical skill set for these jobs includes a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, or Plastics Engineering. Several years of hands-on experience in a manufacturing setting, preferably with thermoplastic polymers, is a standard requirement. Foundational knowledge of polymer rheology, material properties, and extrusion equipment (single/twin-screw, die design) is essential. Successful candidates possess strong analytical and root-cause analysis abilities, proficiency with CAD software for tooling design, and a data-driven mindset. Excellent communication and project management skills round out the profile, enabling them to lead improvement projects and effectively translate technical concepts. For engineers who thrive on turning raw materials into precision products, Manufacturing Engineer II, Extrusion jobs provide a challenging and rewarding career path with a significant impact on manufacturing success.
