Process Engineer

Department:
Operations

Reports To:

VP of Operations

FLSA Status:
Exempt Worker Category:
Full-Time

Schedule:

7 AM - 5 PM, MON - FRI, with occasional call-ins on weekends/after hours.

Pay:
Based on experience

Position Summary

The Process Engineer is responsible for optimizing and improving all phases of cottonseed processing, including seed preparation, hull separation, flaking, cooking, mechanical pressing, solvent extraction (if applicable), oil refining, and meal production.

This role focuses on maximizing oil yield, improving plant throughput, reducing solvent and steam consumption, maintaining product quality, and supporting safe, compliant operations within the oil mill.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

1. Process Monitoring & Optimization

• Monitor daily production metrics
• Conduct mass balance and heat balance calculations for processing equipment.
• Adjust process parameters to improve oil yield and reduce waste.
• Optimize dehulling, cracking, flaking, cooking, pressing, and extraction processes.
• Reduce bottlenecks and improve processing efficiency.

2. Solvent Extraction & Refining Support

• Monitor solvent recovery systems and minimize hexane loss.
• Support distillation, desolventizing-toasting (DT), and stripping systems.
• Optimize refining stages, including:
  • Degumming
  • Neutralization
  • Bleaching
  • Deodorization
• Ensure environmental compliance related to VOC emissions.

3. Continuous Improvement & Cost Reduction

• Lead projects targeting:
  • Steam reduction
  • Electrical consumption optimization
  • Downtime reduction
  • Yield improvement
• Apply Lean, Six Sigma, or other structured improvement methodologies.
• Develop SOPs and update operating parameters based on improvements.

4. Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with OSHA and environmental regulations.
• Participate in Process Safety Management (PSM) programs for solvent systems.
• Conduct hazard analyses for process modifications.
• Support safety audits and training initiatives.

5. Quality Control

• Work closely with QA to maintain oil quality specifications.
• Monitor free fatty acid (FFA) levels, color, moisture, and impurities.
• Investigate quality deviations and implement corrective measures.
• Maintain documentation for feed and oil regulatory compliance.

6. Capital Projects & Engineering Support

• Assist in designing and implementing equipment upgrades.
• Review and develop PFDs and P&IDs.
• Support plant expansions or debottlenecking projects.
• Coordinate with maintenance and external contractors during shutdowns.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in agricultural, industrial, or other engineering with relevant experience.

Experience

• 3+ years of experience in oilseed processing, edible oil refining, or similar manufacturing environment.
• Experience in high-temperature and solvent-based processing preferred.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of:
  • Oilseed preparation systems
  • Extraction systems
  • Heat exchangers and steam systems
  • Pumps and process controls
• Ability to perform data analysis and interpret production trends.
• Proficient in Excel and process monitoring software.

Physical Requirements

• Work in hot, industrial environments.
• Exposure to dust, noise, and moving equipment.
• Climb ladders and stairs frequently.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Occasional weekend or emergency support required.

Key Performance Indicators

• Oil yield percentage
• Residual oil in meal
• Solvent loss rate
• Steam and energy usage
• Production throughput
• Safety performance metrics

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Yes

• Review and approve timecards.
• Coach and reprimand direct reports when assigned
• Complete performance evaluations during the designated time period for direct reports.

USER-DEFINED:

• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
• Basic mechanical aptitude and the ability to interpret process flows
• Familiarity with SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) or HMI (Human Machine Interface) systems (preferred)
• Ability to handle pressure and resolve issues quickly
• Occasionally on-call to assist with operational matters

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

LANGUAGE SKILLS: Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.

REASONING ABILITY: Understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions.

ADDITIONAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job…