Process Engineer

Process Engineer

At Danone, manufacturing the best products and supplying them to meet demand is a key driver for our plant teams. We are currently seeking a Process Engineer to support and strengthen technical capability, problem-solving, and performance across plant operations.

In this role, the Process Engineer is responsible for building and delivering technical training and leading problem-solving activities within the business units to eliminate process losses, establish standards, and drive continuous improvement.

Leadership & Daily Management

• Serve as backup to the Line Leader and lead Daily Direction Setting (DDS) when the Line Leader is unavailable
• Participate in DDS by reporting results, flagging issues, and requesting resources
• Own critical Daily Management Systems (DMS)
• Deliver on SQCDMN daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly objectives

Process Improvement & Reliability

• Identify, prioritize, and eliminate process losses
• Lead discussions on losses and monthly Top 3 Plans during DDS
• Use Reliability Engineering tools to drive centerlining and loss elimination
• Eliminate or reduce prioritized losses through process or work system changes
• Design, implement, and maintain systems to collect and analyze critical process and product data
• Collaborate with management to prioritize improvement opportunities

Technical Standards & Change Management

• Define and standardize equipment and work processes
• Own the Change Management (CM) system for designated processes
• Update process control strategies and operating procedures as changes occur
• Direct and coach change management and validation processes
• Provide feedback to design on materials and product initiatives
• Lead smart standardization deployment

Coaching, Training & Capability Building

• Build and coach technical troubleshooting capability for process failures
• Lead and coach process benchmarking and reapplication
• Prepare and deliver training on process and equipment changes
• Share and reapply learning across processes, modules, and plants
• Train and become proficient in all basic line team roles
• Develop self through corporate and external training

Floor & Line Support

• Spend 60–80% of time on the production floor
• Participate in planned stops and changeovers as needed
• Standardize and improve changeovers and Clean-In-Place (CIP) activities
• Collaborate closely with frontline workers, site, and regional equipment/process owners
• Become the technical expert for a designated process

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to safety standards and regulations (WISE)
• Maintain compliance with all plant standards and procedures

Physical Demands

• Frequent standing, walking, reaching, bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling
• Frequent use of hands for handling tools, objects, or controls
• Ability to lift 10–50 lbs regularly; occasional team lifting above 50 lbs
• Extended standing on concrete surfaces for 8-, 10-, or 12-hour shifts
• Ability to climb stairs, step ladders, or stools when required
• Normal hearing and vision (including color vision)
• Ability to work up to 12-hour shifts

Work Environment

• Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts and wet or humid conditions
• Possible exposure to fumes, airborne particles, and caustic or toxic chemicals
• Moderate to loud noise levels typical of a manufacturing environment
• Occasional exposure to extreme cold, electrical hazards, vibration, and elevated work areas
• Reasonable accommodations may be provided for individuals with disabilities

Integrated Work Systems (IWS) Engagement

The Process Engineer is expected to actively participate in and help deploy Danone's Integrated Work Systems (IWS), including:

• Leadership Foundation
• Daily Direction Setting
• Driving Operational Excellence
• Autonomous & Planned Maintenance
• Focused Improvement
• Education & Training
• Environmental, Health & Safety
• Quality
• Organization & Supply Network
• Early Equipment Management

This role is accountable for owning their area, performance (Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery, Mobilization, and Nature), and continuous improvement.

Danone North America additionally offers a performance-based bonus and has a strong benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Drug Coverage, 401k Plan, Wellness Program, Life Insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, Flexible Time Off, and Paid Parental Bonding Leave, among other benefit plan options. (**For worker level roles: Review for applicability for each site**).

The ideal candidate will bring a combination of education, experience, and skills that enable success in this role.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree required, preferably in an engineering discipline
• Prior experience in a manufacturing environment with demonstrated technical aptitude and leadership capability
• Minimum of 2 years' experience developing technical talent and building capability

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to identify issues, draw conclusions, and recommend effective solutions
• Fundamental influencing and persuasion skills
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trusting relationships
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously
• Proficiency with SAP and Microsoft Office applications, including Excel and PowerPoint
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, fluid environment
• Self-directed with minimal supervision
• Flexibility to support 24/7 manufacturing operations, including overtime, night shifts, and weekends as needed