Process Engineer

Overview A leading manufacturing organization is seeking a Process Engineer to join its engineering team in Elwood, Indiana. This is a highly visible, project-focused role responsible for leading capital improvement and process optimization initiatives across multiple production facilities. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food or beverage manufacturing and a proven track record of managing engineering projects from concept through completion. This position offers the opportunity to work on major facility expansions, equipment installations, process improvements, and cost-reduction initiatives that directly impact manufacturing performance. This is a hands-on role requiring approximately 75% of time on the production floor working closely with plant operations, contractors, vendors, and maintenance teams. Key Responsibilities Project Management & Capital Improvements Lead capital engineering projects from initial scoping through startup and commissioning. Develop project scopes, budgets, timelines, and implementation plans. Manage equipment installations, production line expansions, facility upgrades, and machinery relocations. Coordinate activities with contractors, vendors, and internal stakeholders. Ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, and within budget. Develop bid packages and assist with contractor selection and contract negotiations. Provide project status updates to leadership and plant teams. Process Engineering & Continuous Improvement Identify opportunities to improve production efficiency, product quality, labor utilization, and material usage. Analyze manufacturing processes and recommend process improvements. Support safety, yield, quality, and cost-reduction initiatives. Develop and update process flow diagrams (PFDs), equipment specifications, and operating procedures. Research and implement new technologies that improve manufacturing capabilities. Technical Leadership Specify, design, and implement process equipment and systems. Support equipment startup, commissioning, and operator training. Collaborate with plant teams to troubleshoot process and equipment challenges. Serve as a technical resource for process design and manufacturing improvements. Qualifications Required 5+ years of engineering experience within a manufacturing environment. Experience managing capital projects from initiation through completion. Strong project management skills with demonstrated ability to execute projects on time and within budget. Experience working directly with production teams and plant operations. Strong communication and stakeholder management skills. Preferred Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field. Food and/or beverage manufacturing experience strongly preferred. Experience with pumps, valves, instrumentation, piping systems, and process equipment. Knowledge of sanitary process design and food safety requirements. Experience with AutoCAD, Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), and Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs). Experience with stainless steel fabrication, welding methods, and materials selection. Knowledge of heat exchangers, steam systems, HVAC systems, and process utilities. Familiarity with material handling systems and process optimization initiatives. Compensation & Benefits $90,000 - $110,000 Base Salary 10% Annual Bonus Opportunity 3 Weeks PTO Comprehensive Medical Benefits Company Vehicle Available for Travel Between Facilities Mileage Reimbursement When Applicable Stable, growing food manufacturing organization Opportunity to lead impactful, high-visibility engineering projects Ideal Candidate This role is best suited for an engineer who enjoys being on the plant floor, leading projects from concept through execution, and driving operational improvements. Candidates who thrive in collaborative manufacturing environments and take pride in seeing projects through to successful completion will excel in this position. #J-18808-Ljbffr Ripple Foods