Process Engineer

Process EngineerLocation - Stratford WI or Willmar MNOnsite, Hybrid or Fully Remote - Onsite/Hybrid Hybrid / RemoteStatus - Full-timeReports To - Process Engineering ManagerFLSA Status - ExemptManagement Position - NoCompensationPosition Overview: This position will apply engineering principles to design, analyze, optimize, and support industrial food and dairy processing systems. The role supports liquid and cheese projects from conceptual design through commissioning and startup, working closely with customers, regulation authorities, sales, project management, mechanical design, automation, manufacturing, and field teams.Responsibilities:Sales Support:Participate in audits and process reviews of customers' existing process linesCollaborate on conceptual design of cheese process according to customer requirementsInterpretation and advising on customer information and the influence of these input parameters on engineered solutions (ex. product rates, utilities available, product mix)Support proposal development with technical input, equipment sizing estimations, high level process flow diagrams (PFDs), process and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs)Assist sales team with on-site and remote customer meetings for equipment and solutions presentations and discussionsReview proposals prior to delivery to customersProcess Design and Engineering:Prepare detailed calculations for mass and energy balances, heat transfer for both production and CIPCCollaborate with other engineers and equipment vendors to specify process equipment such as pumps, valves, heat exchangers, piping systemsPrepare technical documentation including complete P&IDs, process descriptions, and specifications for use in project executionPrepare components lists for procurementProject Support and Execution:Support fabrication reviews, automation reviews, and factory acceptance testing (FAT)Collaborate with project engineers, automation engineers, installation technicians, and contractors to ensure installation meets design specificationsAssist with plant teams and governing regulators to assemble required documentation and complete testing (HTST timing, system design specs, product quality safeguards, personnel safety)Support commissioning, startup, and performance verification at customer sitesTroubleshoot process and equipment performance issuesAssist with training for operators, maintenance technicians, and customer technical teamsMaintain lessons-learned to apply to future projectsProcess Optimization and Continuous Improvement:Analyze operational data to improve efficiency, reliability, and product qualityPerform root cause analysis and implement corrective actionsSupport standardization and best engineering practicesOther Duties:Assist after-sales team and customers with inquiries, issues, warranties, upgrades as neededOn request, give technological support and advice to coworkers in the organization and/or customer's organizationAttend relevant continuing education classes and/or industry events (i.e. CDR classes, equipment training, Cheese Con, WCMA events)Other projects as assigned by supervisorTravel: Anticipate 20-30% travel required, including client site visits during pre-sales, project kick off, occasional visit during installation as needed, commissioning, periodic trade shows. Potential for international travel 1-2 times per year.Skills / Qualifications:Education: Bachelors degree in chemical, mechanical, bio-systems, or electrical engineering requiredMust have 2+ years' experience in the sanitary food, beverage or dairy process industry and a working knowledge of liquid process system design, including mass and heat transfer calculations, piping system flow/pressure calculations, pump/valve/line sizingAbility to manage multiple projects simultaneouslyStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsStrong verbal and written communication skillsStrong teamwork skills to collaborate with cross-functional teamsKovalues:Customer Focus: Our decisions and actions are aligned with client needs, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty.Integrity & Compliance: Establishes trust and credibility, ensuring that actions and communications are transparent and ethical. Comply with all applicable laws and regulations.Teamwork: Foster collaboration and efficiency, leading to innovative solutions and a supportive work environment.Humility & Respect: Build a positive culture by valuing diverse perspectives and fostering a respectful workplace.Entrepreneurial: Eliminate bureaucracy and non-value-added processes. Encourage innovation, promote a sense of urgency, and identify and promote our competitive advantage.Benefits Summary:Kovalus offers a comprehensive package that includes: Medical (3 plan options), Dental (2 plan options) and Vision plan insurances; 401K (6% company match & fixed company contribution based on seniority); health savings and flexible spending accounts; company provided basic life insurance policy with the option of selecting additional voluntary life insurance for self, spouse or dependents; disability insurances (short-term policy is company paid & long-term is split between company and employee); voluntary insurance plans for Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity; business and personal travel insurance; 10 paid holidays; vacation time starting at 3 weeks; 48 hours sick time; employee assistance program; educational assistance program; referral bonus; bereavement leave.All benefits are subject to applicable plan and program terms (including eligibility terms) and may be subject to change.