Optimization Engineer

Optimization EngineerLocation: Des Moines, IADepartment: Manufacturing Engineering / Process EngineeringReports To: Technical Engineering ManagerPosition SummaryThe Cure Optimization Engineer is responsible for improving the performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of the tire curing process through data-driven process optimization and engineering projects. This position will lead initiatives focused on cure cycle optimization, bladder life improvement, curing equipment performance, and process capability while working closely with Manufacturing, Quality, Maintenance, Technical Services, and Product Engineering.The primary objective of this role is to reduce manufacturing costs, improve productivity, increase press capacity, and enhance product quality by optimizing the curing process across all tire product lines.Preferred QualificationsBachelor's degree in Materials Engineering or Mechanical Engineering1 – 5 years of manufacturing or process engineering experienceExperience in rubber processing, tire manufacturing, polymers, or process optimization is preferredStrong analytical and statistical problem-solving skillsExperience with SPC, DOE, Six Sigma, Minitab, Power BI, or similar analytical tools is desirablePrimary ResponsibilitiesLead cure optimization projects that improve throughput, quality, and manufacturing efficiency.Develop and implement cure cycle improvements that reduce cure times while maintaining product performance and regulatory compliance.Optimize bladder selection, operating parameters, and replacement intervals to maximize bladder life and reduce consumable costs.Analyze bladder failures and implement corrective actions to eliminate recurring issues.Utilize cure alarm data to identify process abnormalities, equipment issues, and opportunities for preventive action.Develop dashboards and KPI reporting for curing process performance.Work closely with production personnel to improve process consistency and reduce variation.Support new tire introductions by developing optimized curing parameters.Partner with Production and Quality to reduce cure-related scrap and warranty risks.Support Maintenance in improving curing press reliability and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).Standardize curing best practices across all curing operations.Document process changes and update manufacturing specifications.Key Performance IndicatorsCure-related scrap reductionBladder life improvementCure cycle time reductionPress throughput improvementOverall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)Cost savings from cure optimization projectsReduction in cure alarms and process variationYield improvementReduction in consumable costsRequired CompetenciesStrong engineering and analytical skillsStatistical data analysisRoot Cause AnalysisProject managementCross-functional collaborationContinuous improvement mindsetExcellent communication skillsAbility to manage multiple projects simultaneously