Process Engineer

Kco Resource Management - Syracuse, NY

Full-time

Syracuse, NY

Truck Transportation

About the position

We are seeking an experienced Process Engineer to lead the startup and development of a new aseptic manufacturing facility located in Central New York, Cayuga County. This role is critical as it will provide technical expertise specifically for Ultra High Temperature (UHT) processing, which is essential for ensuring the success of this state-of-the-art facility. The Process Engineer will be responsible for overseeing strategic and technical projects in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, ensuring that all processes meet the highest standards of quality and efficiency. In this position, the Process Engineer will serve as the primary resource for UHT processing, focusing on excellence in thermal processes, product quality, and equipment reliability. The role involves engineering sustainable solutions through continuous improvement methodologies, collaborating closely with technical engineers, maintenance teams, and operations personnel to resolve any issues that arise. Additionally, the Process Engineer will work with plant vendors to reverse engineer critical equipment components, ensuring that quality parts meet specifications while maintaining precise documentation. The successful candidate will lead the planning and implementation of various technical projects, developing project plans, managing budgets, scheduling timelines, providing direction and support to teams, and monitoring processes. Reporting to stakeholders and implementing changes to achieve project goals will also be key responsibilities. The Process Engineer will plan, coordinate, and monitor the work of maintenance and processing departments, identifying root causes of issues, implementing improvements, and providing technical support as needed. A significant aspect of this role is to foster a culture of continuous improvement across all departments, utilizing data tools to drive innovation and conduct root cause analysis.

Responsibilities

• Oversee strategic and technical projects in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Serve as the primary resource for UHT processing, ensuring excellence in thermal processes, product quality, and equipment reliability.
• Engineer sustainable solutions using continuous improvement methodologies.
• Collaborate with technical engineers, maintenance, and operations teams to resolve issues.
• Work closely with plant vendors to reverse engineer critical equipment components, ensuring quality parts meet specifications and maintaining precise documentation.
• Lead the planning and implementation of technical projects, developing project plans, managing budgets, scheduling timelines, providing team direction and support, and monitoring processes.
• Report to stakeholders and implement changes to achieve project goals.
• Plan, coordinate, and monitor the work of maintenance and processing departments.
• Identify root causes, implement improvements, and provide technical support as needed.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement across all departments, using data tools to drive innovation and root cause analysis.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related discipline required.
• 6+ years of production engineering experience.
• Experience in aseptic processing, including UHT systems, homogenizers, separators, filtration plants, valves, motors, and pumps.
• Ability to update P&IDs, mechanical/electrical prints (CAD preferred).
• Proficient in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
• Skilled in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating SOPs and PMs, and developing and implementing new strategies.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Capable of making administrative and procedural decisions on sensitive, confidential issues.
• Ability to supervise and train staff, including organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
• Proficient in understanding and modifying PLC logic (Allen Bradley platform), and network switches.
• Ability to assess and address training and development needs.
• Familiarity with computerized systems used in quality assurance, maintenance, and ERP applications.
• Able to interpret and utilize engineering drawings, operating manuals, and blueprints.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, occasionally lift a minimum of 40 lbs., and work at elevations up to 75 feet.
• Comfortable handling ambiguity and thriving in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
• Willingness to work all shifts, including off shifts.
• Familiarity with USDA, State, and Federal regulations for a food manufacturing facility.