Process Engineer

Job Type

Full-time

Description

Position Title: Process Engineer

Reports To: Director of Engineering

FLSA Status: Exempt

Job Grade: 11

Pay Range: $114,000- $146,000

Position Overview:

The Process Engineer supports the optimization of manufacturing processes, equipment performance, and automation systems across Cayuga Milk Ingredients' operations. This role works closely with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and Engineering teams to improve safety, quality, efficiency, and reliability throughout the production process.

The Process Engineer analyzes process performance, troubleshoots operational issues, supports continuous improvement initiatives, and assists with capital projects and process modifications. This position provides an excellent opportunity to develop expertise in dairy processing, automation, and manufacturing operations while contributing to the company's commitment to operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Process Improvement & Operations Support

• Monitor process performance and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, yield, quality, and throughput.
• Analyze production data and assist in identifying trends, losses, and process improvement opportunities.
• Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action activities for process and equipment issues.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, productivity, and cost reduction.
• Assist with process documentation, standard operating procedures, and work instructions.

Manufacturing & Process Engineering

• Provide engineering support for dairy processing systems including milk receiving, pasteurization, membrane filtration, evaporation, drying, packaging, and utility operations.
• Work with Operations and Maintenance teams to troubleshoot process upsets and equipment performance issues.
• Support process validation, startup activities, and implementation of process changes.
• Assist with maintaining process flow diagrams, P&IDs, and technical documentation.

Automation & Controls Support

• Support troubleshooting and optimization of PLC, HMI, SCADA, and process control systems.
• Assist with automation upgrades, system testing, and commissioning activities.
• Work with engineering and maintenance teams to improve process monitoring and control capabilities.
• Support collection and analysis of process and automation data.

Capital Projects & Continuous Improvement

• Assist with capital projects, equipment installations, and process improvement initiatives.
• Support equipment evaluations, vendor interactions, and project implementation activities.
• Participate in startup, commissioning, and validation efforts for new equipment and systems.
• Contribute to efforts that improve equipment reliability and operational performance.

Food Safety, Quality & Compliance

• Support compliance with FDA, PMO, SQF, OSHA, environmental regulations, and company standards.
• Assist in identifying and mitigating process risks that could impact product quality or food safety.
• Support food safety and quality initiatives through process monitoring and continuous improvement efforts.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Food Engineering, or a related technical field.

Experience

• 3+ years of engineering experience in manufacturing, food, dairy, beverage, or related industries.
• Experience with continuous improvement or process optimization initiatives is a plus.

Technical Skills

• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and engineering principles.
• Familiarity with process control systems, PLCs, instrumentation, or automation technologies preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and data analysis tools.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, and technical documentation.
• Knowledge of food manufacturing or dairy processing is beneficial.

Core Competencies

• Problem Solving & Analytical Thinking
• Continuous Improvement Mindset
• Attention to Detail
• Teamwork & Collaboration
• Technical Learning Agility
• Communication Skills
• Initiative & Accountability

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to navigate all areas of the facility, including office spaces, warehouse areas, and the exterior perimeter.

• Must wear required…