Process Engineer

Process Engineer IIPosition OverviewThe Process Engineer II will drive process performance, product quality, and operational efficiency across protein production lines. This mid-level engineering role focuses on optimizing manufacturing processes for rendering, further processing, and beef production while ensuring compliance with food safety and regulatory requirements. The position partners with operations, quality, maintenance, and supply chain to deliver measurable improvements in yield, throughput, safety, and cost.Key ResponsibilitiesAnalyze production data and lead root-cause investigations to reduce downtime, scrap, and variability in food manufacturing processes.Design, implement, and validate process improvements and control strategies for rendering, further processing, and protein-based product lines to increase yield and efficiency.Develop and maintain process documentation including SOPs, process flow diagrams, control plans, and validation records in accordance with GMP, HACCP, and regulatory requirements.Lead small capital projects from concept through commissioning, partnering with maintenance and project management to meet scope, schedule, quality, and budget targets.Apply Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement tools to drive structured problem solving and cost reduction initiatives.Work closely with Quality and Regulatory teams to ensure compliance with USDA/FDA requirements, food safety programs, and internal audit findings.Implement and maintain digital tools and MES workflows (experience with Redzone or similar systems preferred) to improve operator execution, shift handoffs, and performance tracking.Provide technical support and training to operations and maintenance teams to ensure correct process operation and equipment reliability.Participate in cross-functional teams for new product introductions and process scale-ups, ensuring robust transfer to manufacturing.Monitor safety performance and lead process safety reviews, risk assessments, and corrective action implementation to maintain a safe work environment.QualificationsBachelors degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Industrial, Food Engineering or related engineering discipline required.5+ years of engineering experience in food manufacturing, preferably within meat, beef, rendering, protein processing or further processing environments.Practical experience with rendering and protein production processes and a strong understanding of meat industry production challenges.Hands-on experience with plant data systems or MES platforms; familiarity with Redzone strongly preferred.Demonstrated ability to lead process improvement projects using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies; Green Belt or higher preferred.Knowledge of food safety systems (HACCP, GMP) and regulatory requirements (USDA/FDA) applicable to meat and protein production.Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis, process control, and troubleshooting (e.g., SPC, root cause analysis).Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with operations, quality, maintenance, and leadership.Project management experience including scope definition, budgeting, scheduling and commissioning of capital and improvement projects.Willingness to work in production environments, support multiple shifts as needed, and travel between plant sites when required.BenefitsAnnual Base Salary: $85,000 - $100,000Bonus PotentialHealth, Dental, Vision Insurance PlansLife, Short Term Disability, Long-Term Disability Plans401k Plan with Company MatchingPTO / Paid VacationPrivately Owned CompanyGrowth Opportunities