Principal Process Engineer

Job Description

The Process Engineer is responsible for overseeing the engineering aspects of complex projects from conception through completion. This role serves as the senior technical lead, overseeing the design, development, and implementation of projects that ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations. The position involves working closely with multidisciplinary teams, acting as lead engineer on assigned programs, and providing expertise to support the design, commissioning, and operation of high-risk processes while ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Leadership

• Serve as the senior technical lead for projects involving energetic materials and propellant production.
• Develop, review, and approve engineering designs, specifications, and process documentation for manufacturing and facility systems.
• Support procurement by reviewing technical bids and vendor deliverables.
• Develop and review detailed engineering designs, specifications, and calculations.
• Manage risk identification, mitigation, and resolution of engineering issues.
• Ensure compliance with industry codes, standards, and company policies.

Project Management

• Lead and manage projects focused on process improvements, new technology implementation, and capability expansion related to energetic materials.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure project requirements, schedules, budgets, and quality standards are achieved.
• Plan, execute, and deliver complex modernization and capital improvement projects on time, within budget, and to specification.
• Develop and manage detailed project schedules, budgets, and resource plans.
• Act as the primary technical point of contact between project management, clients, and contractors.
• Collaborate with Program Managers to align engineering efforts with overall project objectives.

Training and Development

• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering technical excellence within the team.
• Provide training on processes and systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of progressive engineering experience, including at least 5 years in process engineering leadership roles within the chemical, explosives, or energetic materials industry.
• Expert knowledge of process design, optimization, and control.
• Proficiency with engineering software such as AutoCAD, Aspen HYSYS, process simulation tools, and project/risk management software.
• Proven track record managing complex modernization or capital projects in chemical, defense, or aerospace manufacturing environments.
• Experience with the design, construction, and commissioning of modern chemical manufacturing facilities, including:
• Equipment selection
• Process control system architecture and functionality verification
• Hazard analyses (PHA, LOPA, etc.)
• P&ID development and review
• Environmental systems
• Equipment commissioning activities
• In-depth knowledge of PSM, PHA, and other process safety protocols.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated leadership, project management, and stakeholder engagement capabilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Engineering or MBA.
• PMP or equivalent project management certification.
• Deep knowledge of process design, safety standards, and regulations relevant to explosives and energetic materials, including:
• NFPA 70
• NFPA 495
• DOD 4145.26M
• DESR 6055.09
• ATF regulations
• OSHA PSM 29 CFR 1910.119
• Safety certifications such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or OSHA 30-hour.

Other Requirements

• Travel: Approximately 20%, including international travel.
• Work Environment: Combination of office and manufacturing settings, including exposure to energetic materials. Strict adherence to safety protocols is required.
• Background Investigation, Drug Screen, and U.S. Person status: Required.