Process Improvement Engineering

Job Description Nichols Farms is one of the top processors of pistachios in the United States. For more than three decades, Nichols Farms has maintained superior quality and exceptional service in supplying pistachio and almond products to major retail and wholesale clients domestically and internationally. Nichols Farms maintains a state-of-the-art processing facility at their corporate headquarters in Hanford, California, employing over 350 employees. Join the Nichols Farms Team in their objective of continued growth. Nichols Farms possesses a strong employee-oriented environment dedicated to training and growth of team members.
The Nichols Farms Mission and Vision support a culture of striving for mutual success of our employees, suppliers, and customers through operational excellence and educational development.
We are seeking a results-driven Process Improvement Engineer to lead operational optimization initiatives across our raw processing departments. This role is responsible for identifying inefficiencies, streamlining workflows, and implementing sustainable process improvements that enhance productivity, reduce waste, improve quality, and lower operational costs.
The ideal candidate will leverage Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and data-driven methodologies to analyze performance, drive root-cause problem solving, and support cross-functional continuous improvement initiatives. This position will partner closely with production, maintenance, quality, and leadership teams to develop standardized processes, improve operational performance, and foster a culture of accountability, efficiency, and continuous improvement across the organization.
Use production and quality data to evaluate current processes and identify opportunities for improvement.
Develop a comprehensive understanding of raw processing operations, from silos through handsort.
Collaborate with engineering and fabrication teams to implement new processing projects.
Partner with production leadership to establish KPIs and performance metrics.
Develop and implement Standard Work, visual management systems, and 5S practices.
Work with production teams on continuous improvement tools and best practices.
Bachelor's degree in mechanical and/or Industrial Engineering.

• 2–5 years of experience in process improvement, manufacturing, operations, or engineering.
• Strong analytical skills, including proficiency with Excel and PowerPoint.
• Effective communication, facilitation, and project management skills.
• Experience in food processing or food manufacturing environments.
• Knowledge of automation, robotics, or digital transformation initiatives.
• Ability to work any day and/or shift, including weekends and holidays.

As part of the scope of this role duties may include being inside the plant manufacturing environment, which may include high levels of noise. When working outdoors conditions can include extreme cold, heat, or humidity; The employee will, at times, be required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as designated by the company. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
This document does not represent a contract of employment, and the Company reserves the right to change this job description and/or assign tasks for the employee to perform, as the Company may deem appropriate.