Sr. Process Engineer, Paint (m/fd) - Gigafactory Berlin-Brandenburg

Description

The Senior Process Engineer – PTED will act as the technical subject matter expert for the assigned Pretreatment and E-Coat processes. You will determine the most effective processing methods, improve cycle times, reduce downtime, lower costs, develop more efficient processes, and drive continuous improvements in overall paint quality to ensure sustained high performance of the process.

Responsibilities

• Lead process KPIs and process quality to meet and exceed expectations.
• Prepare, lead, and conduct technical overview meetings with suppliers (weekly/biweekly) focused on material, process, and equipment improvements.
• Lead process modifications and the introduction of new parameters, methods, and technologies.
• Perform fact-based analysis and structured problem-solving for Pretreatment and E-Coat processes.
• Train process engineers, quality engineers, and technicians.
• Support process technicians in day-to-day operations.
• Perform audits and inspections of processes, equipment, and finished product.
• Support production ramp-up, line availability/performance, and improvements in Direct Run Rate (DRR).
• Analyze current processes and drive improvement projects covering Safety, Quality, Throughput, Efficiency, Environment, and Cost.
• Collaborate with, guide, and lead suppliers, Maintenance, and Quality teams to contain, correct, and permanently resolve product quality issues.
• Ensure critical process parameters are properly documented, controlled, and tracked using Statistical Process Control (SPC) methods.
• Develop and continuously improve control plans, start-up plans, and lineside check routines.
• Support new model, product, and material introductions in close coordination with other stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline (or equivalent experience). Master’s or PhD is a plus.
• Minimum 5 years of solid, hands-on experience in PTED (Pretreatment and E-Coat) processes. Experience with sealer application and Betafoam is a plus.
• Strong ability to apply fundamental engineering principles.
• Proven ability to provide technical guidance and coaching to process and quality technicians.
• Self-starter who can work independently in a fast-changing environment while remaining a strong team player.
• Experience managing cross-functional projects.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills when working with internal teams and external suppliers/vendors.
• Proactive mindset with a drive to take processes to the next level of performance.
• Fluent English (written and spoken). German is a plus.