NPD Sample Technician

PURPOSE: The New Product Development Sample Technician is responsible for coordinating engineering/development sample activities from scheduling through inspection, documentation, disposition, shipment, and system closeout. This role works closely with Process Engineering, Tooling, Program Management, Quality, Production, Post Molding Operations, and shipping to ensure samples are prepared, reviewed, documented, shipped, and transitioned effectively.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Coordinate weekly engineering sample schedules, including work orders, resin requisitions, and shift reporting.
• Perform first-piece reviews and initial visual inspections of engineering samples.
• Document cosmetic and physical attributes of sample parts; dimensional as required
• Manage sample disposition for customers, Program Management, Quality, tooling, and retained samples.
• Coordinate timely shipment of sample products to customers and follow up with Program Management as needed.
• Receive, review, process, and disposition outsourced samples manufactured by our outside tooling vendors
• Maintain accurate system updates in ERP, including QA logs, MRO information, shipped sample inputs, and sample process documentation.
• Initiate work instructions for new parts and related press or Post Molding Operations activity, working closely with the Manufacturing Engineers, Quality Engineers, and Program Managers

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Partner with scheduling, Lead Process Engineer, and NPD Team to establish weekly sample schedules and prepare required work orders and resin requisitions.
• Report materials used for sampling after sample completion and ensure production records are accurate.
• Communicate daily sample run status, issues, and requirements with Program Management, Tooling, Process Engineering, and Quality.
• Inspect engineering samples and document observed attributes for use in part approval documentation.
• Prepare sample parts, forms, and supporting documentation for customer sample submissions.
• Manage sample shipments, update ERP records, communicate shipment details, and follow ups
• Create and maintain required tagged sample parts from each engineering sample run, including retained samples.
• Support a seamless transition from engineering samples to first production runs by coordinating with Production, Program Management, Tooling, Process Engineering, Post Molding Operations, and Quality.
• Enter and maintain QA Log and MRO information and ensure sample process sheets are scanned, populated, and maintained as required.
• Working with the Process Engineers and Manufacturing Engineers, help with work instructions for new parts, including press-side and post-molding work requirements.
• BOMs updates after development completion, review changes with Production Planning, and complete closeout activities after sample completion.

LMA RESPONSIBILITIES:

• This role does not have direct people-management responsibilities

QUALITIES FOR SUCCESS:

• Demonstrates Seaway Plastics Core Values
  • We are customer focused
  • We execute
  • We win together
  • We are respectful
• Self-starter with strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with good manufacturing practices, quality initiatives, and quality management systems.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented manufacturing environment.
• Proficient with hand-held measuring instruments, including micrometers, height gauges, calipers, indicators, and optical comparators.
• Knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing principles and the ability to interpret related requirements.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and help resolve nonconforming materials, parts, or production issues.
• Ability to support QMS improvements, customer demand, sales growth, and ISO standard requirements.
• Strong computer skills, including working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• 3-5 years of manufacturing experience preferred.
• Injection molding industry experience preferred.
• Professional, respectful, adaptable, and able to develop workable solutions in a changing environment

• Must be able to lift at least 30 pounds unaided
• Must be able to stand for long periods and occasionally bend, stoop, reach, push, pull, grasp, climb steps, walk, and stand on concrete surfaces
• Competitive spirit but plays within the rules