Process Safety Engineering

From a small family business to a multi-billion-dollar global company, Sonoco has been changing the face of products and packaging since 1899 — all while keeping the heart of “People Build Businesses” alive.

Today we are a world leader in global packaging solutions with diversified operations in over 34 countries. We’re extremely proud of our portfolio of brands, our achievements in sustainability and industrialization and the groundbreaking work accomplished by our people.

The Plant Process Engineer is responsible for leading the plant’s environmental compliance and sustainability initiatives while supporting the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of manufacturing processes and plant infrastructure. This position provides engineering support for manufacturing equipment, facilities, utilities, and safety programs, while assisting with the planning, coordination, and execution of capital improvement projects. Working collaboratively with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and Safety teams, the Process Engineer III develops and implements solutions that improve equipment reliability, process performance, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. The role also coordinates contractors, supports continuous improvement initiatives, and provides technical support to ensure uninterrupted plant operations.

Lead and manage plant environmental compliance by monitoring key performance metrics, maintaining required documentation, and assisting with regulatory reporting and audits.

Support capital improvement projects, including project planning, budgeting, implementation, tracking, and completion.

Administer and support plant safety programs to ensure compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.

Provide engineering oversight for plant utility systems, facility infrastructure, and production support equipment to maximize reliability and operational efficiency.

Coordinate preventative and predictive maintenance programs for assigned equipment and systems.

Manage and oversee maintenance activities for plant facilities, including building infrastructure and critical support systems.

Coordinate equipment inspections, repairs, and maintenance activities with internal maintenance personnel and external contractors.

Provide engineering support for manufacturing equipment by identifying opportunities to improve reliability, efficiency, safety, and equipment performance.

Maintain 24/7 on-call availability to provide engineering support for critical manufacturing operations. Respond to after-hours equipment failures, process issues, and facility emergencies to minimize downtime and ensure the safe, reliable operation of the plant.

Lead root cause investigations and implement corrective actions to reduce equipment downtime and improve process reliability.

Develop and maintain equipment standards, maintenance procedures, and engineering documentation.

Monitor equipment and process performance using data analysis and key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Safety, and Engineering teams to support production goals and improve overall plant performance.

Ensure assigned projects and equipment comply with company standards, environmental regulations, and applicable safety requirements.

Manage contractor relationships and ensure work is completed safely, on schedule, and within budget.

Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on increasing productivity, reducing costs, improving reliability, and enhancing operational performance.

Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

This position will be located at our Milwaukee, WI facility.
S. in Engineering (or A.S in Engineering with equivalent experience)

3-5 years experience in a leadership role within a manufacturing environment.

Strong background in mechanical systems, electronics/automation, and chemical processes.

Advanced computer skills in Word, Excel, CAD, and other project management software.

Comprehensive knowledge of OSHA safety requirements, with a strong emphasis on mechanical safety practices, machine guarding, energy isolation, lockout/tagout (LOTO), confined space entry, fall protection, and safe work procedures.

Knowledge of regulatory compliance, food safety standards, and environmental controls.

Knowledge of manufacturing processes, equipment, and quality control standards.

Engineer II, Plant Process is from $92,800 to $104,400, plus a quarterly target bonus of 12.5% of base salary. Engineer III, Plant Process is from $104,800 to $117,900, plus a quarterly target bonus of 12.5% of base salary. Specific benefits and wellbeing programs may vary depending on your location (within the U.S. or global), or if you are a union employee.

Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Wellbeing tools and resources to support holistic health, including an Employee Assistance Program with a variety of services

Paid time off and holidays to recreate, rejuvenate and care for the health of yourself and family

Variety of company paid and voluntary employee-paid insurance plans including life, personal accident, and disability insurance

Tuition reimbursement

We are an equal opportunity employer, and we strictly prohibit and do not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.

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