Process Engineer

Position Overview

Reporting to the Engineering Manager, the Process Engineer is primarily responsible for understanding and optimizing the organization’s processing systems.  Additional responsibilities will include developing, directing and providing recommendations to acquire innovative technology and deliver competitive advantage through new processes or products, quality/shelf life and yield improvements in order to impact overall cost reductions.

Job Responsibilities:

• Maintains knowledge of the organization’s current product lines and develops activities that assist in contributing to new processes and product development from concept to commercialization.
• Performs data collection and trend analysis of Loss of Sterility (LOS) and spoilage incidents.
• Participates in the review of test results and recommends procedure and process improvements in collaboration with appropriate Quality, Production, and Engineering team members to increase process efficiency and product output.
• Investigates and recommends on the procurement of equipment in addition to actively participating in equipment development for new product initiatives.
• Manages capital projects from concept to commissioning, including FDA validation of equipment and packaging materials.
• Participates in Loss of Sterility (LOS) Root Cause Analysis (RCA) including data and trend analysis, assist internal Process Authority during LOS investigations.
• Designs, installs, and commissions new production units, monitors modifications and upgrades, and troubleshoots existing processes in order to meet production needs.
• Supports the IQ, OQ, PQ, and FDA validation process for new equipment and packaging materials, including data collection for FDA filing.
• Develops strong vendor relationships in order to recommend and engage in cost savings initiatives and communicate results to key stakeholders.
• Applies advanced statistical tools and flow diagrams for staff education in order to identify key areas of improvement and ensure the organization is producing at optimum levels of performance.
• Functions as a change agent to help guide and cultivate a continuous improvement culture in both the department and throughout the organization.
• Ensure compliance with corporate and plant safety standards and with applicable regulatory requirements while following the company’s Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Leads projects comprised of cross-functional resources ensuring internal and external customer needs are met.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering
• Strong project planning and management skills
• Self-motivated, detail oriented, organized, and exhibits excellent analytical abilities
• Demonstrated ability to multitask under pressure and limited supervision
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse populations by promoting and maintaining an inclusive work environment and culture that is respectful and accepting of diversity.
• Ability and means to travel if needed; must posses a valid driver’s license and proof of valid insurance, including liability and property damage coverage.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Engineering
• 3 years food industry engineering experience ideally in an aseptic environment
• 3 years of knowledge and experience with food or beverage thermal processing
• Proficient with AutoCAD software for design layout and communication
• Proficient with Microsoft Office software suite
• Engineering license in the state of Wisconsin
• Certification in project management
• Knowledge of FDA rules and regulations