Process Development Engineer; Manufacturing

Come join our team at DIS-TRAN Steel!

Our people – not our machinery - are our biggest assets. DIS-TRAN Steel’s leadership team lives by our company values, modeling our culture of respect and integrity each day.
We're a team that likes to have fun, but we also know how to get stuff done.

DIS-TRAN Steel is looking for a Process Development Engineer to join our team in Pineville, La. This is a hands‑on role for an engineer who wants to design, test, and implement manufacturing processes on the shop floor—not just analyze them from a desk. You will work directly with operations, welding, fabrication, and equipment teams to develop new processes, improve existing ones, and take ideas from pilot trials through full‑scale production.

If you enjoy solving real manufacturing problems in a heavy steel environment and seeing your work turn into tangible improvements in throughput, quality, and safety, this role was built for you.

• Develop and implement manufacturing processes by working hands‑on with welding, forming operations, cutting processes, fixtures, and emerging automation to improve throughput, quality, and safety.
• Evaluate operational processes, develop and implement optimization experiments, incorporate successful process improvements into designs and plans, develop new processes to support operational needs
• Evaluate proposed new equipment technology. Provide professional evaluation of manufacturing technology additions or changes. Conduct evaluations of system with a focus on safety, productivity and efficiency improvements.
• Be capable of testing and conducting thorough evaluation of changes with proposed productivity gains along with justifications.
• Conduct and lead pilot process implementation. Provide guidance, leadership, and support for both scaling new processes and technology. Provide direct oversight with operations team on process change implementation
• Will be required to conduct and participate in cross‑functional collaboration
• Must be adept in project management, including scope definition, scheduling, cost and resource planning
• This position may involve direct or indirect management of team members.

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, process development, or industrial engineering in a heavy manufacturing or fabrication environment.
• Proven experience with steel fabrication processes such as welding, plasma/laser cutting, forming, machining, and assembly.
• Experience with automation, robotics integration, and Industry 4.0 Initiatives
• Demonstrated success in leading process improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, etc.) and deploying new manufacturing technologies.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced, experimental environment.
• Proficiency with CAD, process simulation, and data analysis tools preferred.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and collaboration skills.

• Experience with pilot plant operations, prototyping, process creation, R&D manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with ERP & MES systems
• Familiarity with simulation tools and digital twin technology
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing, six sigma, and continuous improvement projects
• Familiarity with business financials
• Entrepreneurial experience

As strategists, operational experts, customer advocates and team players, we all believe in the power of our people. Explore how you can become a part of our team of strength and commitment that's built to last!

DIS-TRAN Steel is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information.

DIS-TRAN Steel is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request…