Senior Process Control Engineer

Senior Process Control Engineer

Job Description

A manufacturing facility in Monticello, AR is seeking a Process Control Engineer to join its team. This is a full-time, salaried exempt position reporting to the Maintenance Manager.

In this role, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams to design, implement, and maintain automation systems within manufacturing processes. As the site’s subject matter expert in automation platforms, you will play a key role in improving operational efficiency and effectiveness. You will also support, consult on, and occasionally lead site-specific projects, while maintaining a strong focus on safety and clear communication.

You are a proactive problem-solver, effective collaborator, and influential team member. You are passionate about safety, continuous improvement, and people development. Your background in manufacturing or related fields enables you to drive operational excellence while maintaining high standards of performance.

The organization promotes a safety-first culture, values inclusion, and empowers employees to contribute ideas. Success is driven by teamwork, shared accountability, and guiding principles that shape daily operations and decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support the application of process control best practices, including development of short- and long-term automation strategies
• Identify and implement opportunities for process optimization, variability reduction, and cost savings
• Provide technical leadership and training on process control technologies, including support for PLC technicians
• Serve as a key resource for implementing new automation technologies, including documentation and training
• Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend solutions for manufacturing applications
• Collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers to enhance process control systems
• Align project initiatives with business and operational goals
• Mentor and support the development of engineers and technicians

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Chemical, Electrical, Industrial, Computer, Mechanical) with 5+ years of experience, OR
• Associate degree with 8+ years of experience, OR
• 10+ years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree
• At least 5 years of experience in process control within manufacturing environments
• Proven experience improving processes and reducing costs through automation solutions
• Advanced knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, and automation systems, including programming and configuration
• Strong leadership and collaboration skills across multiple organizational levels
• Solid understanding of process dynamics and control principles
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and project management skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in wood products manufacturing or similar industries
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills for complex processes
• Experience in controller design and tuning methods
• Familiarity with advanced control strategies such as Model Predictive Control (MPC)
• Experience with process historian systems and tools (e.g., Aspen IP/21, GE Proficy)
• Knowledge of tuning and analysis tools (e.g., Expertune, ProTuner, Entech)
• Programming experience (e.g., Visual Basic, C, Java) and database knowledge (SQL Server)
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing principles
• Familiarity with Windows systems, networking, and industrial automation platforms (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Wonderware)