Product Development Technician - (req51771)

Company: Kohler Company
Location: Kohler
Posted on: May 28, 2023

Job Description:

Product Development TechnicianWork Mode: OnsiteLocation: Onsite at Kohler, WI OpportunityUnder the direction of the Staff Engineer NPI, develop new products following the Vitreous Development Management System (VDMS). Cast New product block molds, produce product for qualification testing, develop ware boards, bowl horseshoes, special props and punching gauges. Suggest alterations necessary to improve product manufacturability. Work as liaison between Model, Block and Case and Pottery Cast shop in introducing new and improving current manufacturing methods and yields. Assist Cast shop as directed to resolve product problems. Dry finish, transport, spray, fire and inspect new product for qualification testing. Develop procedures for finishing, dryer and transportation propping, spray setters, gauges, firing props, decks and special methods to improve product manufacturability. Work as liaison between Product development and the Pottery ware processing departments to introduce new products and improve current product manufacturing methods and product yields. Assist the Processing Departments as directed to resolve product problems. Specific ResponsibilitiesCast new product block molds, develop and document casting procedures for Pottery cast shops.Suggest mold and casting procedure changes, work closely with Model, Block and Case on mold alterations to rapidly develop correct fitting molds.Develop casting, finishing and hole punching methods and make method changes as required by product engineering or manufacturing.Maintain Excel data collection files of all products, casting method changes, mold alterations and special tool dimensions during the development stage to include a daily record of methods and alterations on each new product cast.Develop punching gauges and, with the assistance of Model, Block and Case, make punching gauges.Create temporary JIC's for mold preparation and casting methods using Microsoft Word.Photograph and/or videotape mold preparation and casting methods.With the Foreman, Product Development, review JIC's and videos with manufacturing personnel prior to the first production molds being put unto service.Dry finish all products produced by Product Development and develop dry finishing procedures necessary to produce good product.Transport new products to the dryer using current equipment wherever possible. Develop any special transportation props and drying times and methods required to produce good pieces.Inspect product after drying and record defects found by location. Review these defects and develop procedures to eliminate the problems.Transport product to the Spray department and help develop spray methods, setters, and gauges.Transport product to the Kiln Department and develop kiln placing locations, methods, firing props and setters as required. Development of drop-in lavatory firing rings is a major responsibility.Inspect fired product for problems and defects. Record all defects and critical dimensions in an Excel file/Excel concentration diagram, which are used to help reduce and eliminate product defects and cull.Record all processing methods and special items required to produce good product, in both computer files and photographic form.Maintain a computer file for each product of the development process and proper processing methods for future reference.Develop and implement logo gauges for production use.Assist manufacturing in the pilot run stage of the new product introduction to ensure proper procedures and methods are followed, changing procedures as necessary to improve product quality.Assist manufacturing in the troubleshooting of manufacturing problems on both new and existing vitreous products as directed by the Foreman - Product Development.Travel to the satellite potteries when necessary to assist them with the introduction of new products at qualification and /verification.Develop products for pressure cast by operation the development pressure cast machine. Being able to make machine adjustments as necessary to change casting properties.Develop machine setting, demolding setters and pressure cast process procedures for new and recase products.Participate in process and design FMEA on new products/current products.Skills/RequirementsMinimum qualifications:High School Graduate or equivalentAble to perform basis computer skills in Excel, Word, etc.Experience in a Manufacturing EnvironmentRegularly lifting, traveling up and down stairs, sitting, squatting and bending in various positions - traveling in and out of work areas, walking and being on your feet for a majority of the work day. Desired qualifications: Pottery experience such as casting, model, block, and case, ware spraying or kiln loading. Applicants must be authorized to work in the US without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.Why Work at Kohler Co.?Kohler Co.'s mission is to contribute to a higher level of gracious living for those who are touched by our products and services. We understand that it takes investment in our associates' development to make that happen. So, we offer ongoing investment in each individual's personal development and the opportunity to collaborate with others across functions and roles at Kohler. In addition to the investment in your development, Kohler offers a benefits package including a competitive salary, health, vision, dental, 401(k) with company matching, and more! About UsBeyond the competitive benefits and compensation, Kohler proudly offers a rich history, steeped in creativity and a commitment to our associates and communities. We invite you to learn more about our culture and company at www.kohlercompany.com. It is Kohler's policy to recruit, hire, and promote qualified personnel in all job classifications without regard to race, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran. If, as an individual with a disability, you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact kohlerjobs@kohler.com. Kohler Co. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We invite you to learn more about equal employment opportunity by reviewing the Federal EEO is the Law and the EEO is the Law Supplement . PDN-993554c1-aeed-4784-8f2c-36541cca3f75

Keywords: Kohler Company, Milwaukee , Product Development Technician - (req51771), Professions , Kohler, Wisconsin