Production Process Engineer (Utilities Focus)

Job Description

We are seeking a motivated and hands-on Production Process Engineer (Utilities Focus) to join our team at our Wilmington, NC manufacturing facility. In this role, you will support the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of site utility systems while partnering closely with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering teams to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence. 

This position is ideal for an engineer who enjoys working in a manufacturing environment, solving real time operational challenges, and developing broad plant experience across utilities and production support. 

Utilities Operations Support:  

• Support daily operation of site utilities including steam, condensate, water, compressed air, power distribution, and wastewater interfaces. 

• Monitor utility performance and investigate deviations in reliability, efficiency, and availability.

• Assist with troubleshooting utility upsets and abnormal operating conditions alongside Operations and Maintenance teams.

• Support operating procedures, startups, shutdowns, and seasonal operating adjustments.
• Identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency, reliability, and environmental performance. 

Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence : 

• Analyze utility usage, downtime, material losses, and operating performance data.

• Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action development.

• Support development of standard work, operating limits, and visual management tools.

• Track and help close action items from audits, investigations, and improvement initiatives. 

Qualifications

• 5+ years of manufacturing experience or relevant co-op/internship experience preferred.

• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work effectively with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering teams.

• Understanding of manufacturing KPIs and continuous improvement principles preferred. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with utility systems such as steam, boilers, cooling water, and compressed air.

• Knowledge of process safety, LOTO, permits, and PSM-regulated environments.

• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement programs.
• Strong interest in plant operations and hands-on field support. 

Education

Chemical Engineering Degree

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What Success Looks Like:  

• Utility systems operate safely, reliably, and efficiently.

• Operational issues are identified quickly and resolved through structured problem-solving.

• Strong partnerships are built with Operations, Maintenance, and Production teams.

• Continuous improvement opportunities are identified and implemented to improve site performance. 

Work Environment:  

• Combination of office and manufacturing plant environment.

• Significant field presence supporting day-to-day plant operations.

• Regular exposure to outdoor conditions, heavy industrial equipment, and PPE requirements.

• Occasional off-shift support during plant upsets, startups, and project activities may be required. 

Why Join Us?  

• Gain broad exposure to plant operations, utilities, and manufacturing systems.

• Work alongside experienced Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering professionals.

• Help drive improvements that directly impact safety, reliability, and operational performance.

• Build a strong foundation for future technical and leadership opportunities within chemical manufacturing. 

Apply today to join Stepan Company and help shape the future of our Wilmington site.  

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Established in 1932, Stepan Company is a major manufacturer of basic and intermediate chemicals including surfactants, polymers, as well as specialty ingredients that go into consumer, household, and institutional products such as laundry detergents, shampoos, and surface cleaners. Stepan Company currently has 19 global manufacturing locations and over 2,400 employees. We have a strong record of growth. Our growth allows us to provide meaningful career opportunities and stability to our team members. We have big goals at Stepan and know every team member will be crucial to achieving our objectives. Regardless of function, we are looking for team members who bring with them a growth mindset, an entrepreneurial spirit, and the ability to thrive in an evolving environment.

We celebrate diversity at Stepan and are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive environment. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetic information, disability, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.