Process Engineer/CI Engineer

Process Engineer

We are seeking a proactive and analytical Process Engineer to drive continuous improvement initiatives in our food mixing plant. This role focuses on optimizing manufacturing processes, enhancing product quality, reducing waste, and improving overall operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will bring a strong foundation in process engineering, data analysis, and food manufacturing best practices.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate mixing, batching, and packaging processes to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
• Design and implement process changes to improve throughput, reduce cycle time, and enhance product consistency.
• Lead Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement projects across the plant.
• Facilitate root cause analysis and corrective action planning for recurring issues.
• Monitor and analyze production metrics, downtime reports, and yield data.
• Use statistical tools to validate process changes and improvements.
• Manage cross-functional improvement projects from concept through implementation.
• Coordinate with vendors and contractors for equipment upgrades and installations.
• Collaborate with QA to ensure process changes meet food safety and regulatory standards (e.g., HACCP, FDA, USDA).
• Maintain accurate documentation including SOPs, process maps, and validation protocols.
• Develop training materials and conduct sessions for operators and technicians on new processes and equipment.
• Provide ongoing technical support to production teams.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies or automation solutions to improve plant performance.
• Support digital transformation initiatives such as MES or real-time monitoring systems.

Essential Skills

• 5+ years of experience in process engineering within a food manufacturing or mixing environment.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement tools.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (Excel, Minitab, Power BI) and process modeling software.
• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Food Science, or related field.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.
• Familiarity with food safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with automated mixing systems and PLCs.
• Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher).
• Experience with ERP systems and MES platforms (Redzone preferred).

Work Environment

This position is onsite at our food mixing plant. The environment is focused on process improvement within a food manufacturing setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Independence, Missouri.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $114400.00 - $145600.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Independence,MO.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 28, 2025.