Description The Ceramics / Materials Science Front End (FE) Process Engineer is responsible for supporting front-end ceramic processing and manufacturing.  This includes not only keeping manufacturing processes fully functional and efficient, but also managing and implementing paths to higher part quality, increasing throughput, and providing higher yields.  This position would focus on all aspects of plate manufacturing through firing and finishing. Key Responsibilities Perform and lead tasks, projects and all processes for plate ceramic plate fabrication in support of manufacturing (batching, casting, green plate fab, bakeout, firing and finishing.

Focus will be on driving yields improvements and process efficiency

Instill proper data collection and statistical process control

Through expertise and the above, guide improvements to production processes

High level of collaboration with Ceramics and Process Transfer Teams, and with Front End Operations Manager

Significant collaborative engagement with engineers in back end processing (such as metallization) to help ensure that process improvements are fully vetted through final product.

Provide and execute qualification plans for process improvements

Provide and execute qualification plans for new equipment

Update operators (and technicians) on procedure changes, production and quality issues

Direct, train, and transfer skills/knowledge to operator, engineers and engineering technicians

Investigate new suppliers, technologies for improving production, quality, end cost and throughput.

Evaluate impact of Preventative Maintenance on yield/quality and co-ordinate execution of P.M. schedules; evaluate all maintenance and its possible indicators of problems.

Assist Purchasing, Maintenance, and Operations to determine proper purchase/supply of spare parts, maintenance equipment, and manufacturing equipment.

Update procedures based on changes in manufacturing or engineering improvements as well as environmental issues (ISO9001, ISO14001).

Execute FMEA, SPC, MSA  processes

Conduct problem troubleshooting (fishbone analysis etc)

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise BS or MS degree in engineering with an emphasis in industrial engineering, materials science, ceramic, or process engineering

Strong data management skills (data management, interpretation and SPC evaluations to guide improvements

Self-directed, highly professional and collaborative

Direct engagement with process transfer group

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Strong attention to detail and propensity for accuracy of work product

Accountability to the timelines of task completion

Able to manage multiple tasks and priorities within a fast-paced workplace

Strong problem solving skills

Experience in total quality, six sigma or other similar environments preferred.

Benefits What’s in it for you on Day 1 : Medical, dental and vision insurance plans

Prescription Drug Plans

Basic Life Insurance

401k plan with company match

Tuition Reimbursement Program

Security Clearance Incentive Program

Employee Referral Program

Overtime opportunities

Alternate work schedules available

Flex PTO and NYS Sick and Safe Leave

Paid Holidays

Exciting Onsite Perks: Free Starbucks coffee available at our café

Free access to our Fitness Center

Fresh food is available for purchase in the cafeteria store.

Employee Appreciation Events

Knowles is committed to providing a competitive and fair total compensation package for all employees. One element in our total compensation package is base pay. The starting salary for this role is targeted to be between $60,000 to $80,000.

Individual compensation decisions are based on a number of factors, including but not limited to previous experience and skills acquired prior to joining Knowles, cost of living in the assigned work location, assigned schedule, and salaries of similarly situated peers at the company. It is to be expected that candidates will come to us with different sets of skills and experiences and therefore will be paid at different points in the stated range. We recognize that the person(s) we select for hire may be less experienced or more experienced than the role as posted; if this is the case, any updates to available salary ranges will be communicated with candidates during the recruitment process.

Equal Opportunity Statement: Knowles Precision Devices prohibits pay discrimination and discrimination of any kind based on race, color, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, or other legally protected status.

ITAR Statement: Please note that this position may require access to technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants must be U.S. persons (citizens, lawful permanent residents, or individuals granted refugee or asylee status) or have the necessary authorization to access controlled technical data. Compliance with ITAR and EAR regulations is a condition of employment. Notice to Staffing Agencies, Search Firms and Recruitment Agencies: The recruitment process at Knowles is managed through the Human Resources department. Knowles does not accept resumes submitted from 3rd party agencies outside of our system. To submit resumes, 3rd party agencies will need to be a pre-approved vendor with a valid contract in place, be actively engaged by Knowles to recruit for a specific position and have agency log in credentials to submit candidates to our careers portal. Please do not submit resumes via e-mail, through our external website or directly to our employees. Any resumes submitted in this way become the property of Knowles and will not be eligible for any placement fee. About Knowles

Knowles is a leading manufacturer of specialty electronic components. We design parts that perform unique, critical functions for innovative technologies. Through extreme reliability, custom engineering, and scalable manufacturing, we enable businesses to succeed in the most demanding applications across medtech, defense, and industrial markets.

Our high-performance capacitors, RF and microwave filters, advanced medtech microphones, balanced armature speakers, and miniaturization products enable and enhance the performance of technologies with the power to change, improve, and save lives. Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Itasca, Illinois, Knowles has grown into a global organization with employees spanning 11 countries.