Industry: Manufacturer
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Salary: $90-100K
Visa Sponsor: No
Language: English: Native Level
Detail: Technical Operations Engineer-(Automotive Decorative & Resin Materials)
Employment Type: Exempt
Location: Greater Detroit Area, Michigan (Home-based initially)
Department: Automotive Materials Division
Company Overview
We are the U.S. subsidiary of a global materials and technology company with strong expertise in decorative films, resin-based materials, and advanced surface solutions.
Our automotive business supports OEMs and Tier 1 / Tier 2 suppliers with high-quality materials and technical solutions for interior and exterior applications.
In North America, we work closely with customers and global engineering teams to develop and expand next-generation automotive materials.
Position Summary
This position is ideal for an early- to mid-career engineer with a background in plastics or chemical engineering and hands-on experience in the automotive industry.
The Technical Operations Engineer will support automotive customers by providing technical assistance related to decorative films, PP resin-based products, and exterior film applications.
The role will initially report to a senior engineer based in the Greater Detroit area who is scheduled to retire next year. Over time, this position is expected to take over a portion of that role’s responsibilities and grow into a key technical resource within the regional team.
There is also a possibility that this position may transition to office-based work if a local office is established in the future.
Key Responsibilities
Provide technical support to automotive OEMs and Tier 1 / Tier 2 suppliers related to resin molding, decorative films, and exterior film materials
Assist in troubleshooting manufacturing and processing issues at customer and supplier facilities
Support the development and improvement of processing conditions for interior decorative films and PP resin-based products
Participate in customer visits, plant trials, and technical meetings in coordination with senior engineers and sales staff
Communicate technical findings and customer feedback to internal global engineering teams
Support the introduction of new materials and applications for automotive interior and exterior components
Gradually assume responsibilities from a senior engineer as part of a planned knowledge transfer
Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Plastics Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a related field
2–3 years of experience in the automotive industry (OEM, Tier 1, Tier 2, or related suppliers)
Hands-on experience or strong interest in resin molding, plastic materials, or chemical-based products
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
Ability to communicate effectively with customers, suppliers, and internal teams
Self-motivated and able to work independently in a home-based environment
Willingness to travel domestically (and occasionally internationally)
Valid driver’s license and ability to use a personal vehicle for business travel
Japanese language skills are NOT required
Experience working with Japanese companies or in a multicultural environment is a plus, but not required
Compensation
Salary range: USD 90,000 – 100,000 (maximum)
Additional benefits offered in accordance with company policy
