Process Engineer (Food)

Job Title: Food Process Engineer
Location: Mount Prospect, IL

Job Summary:
The Food Process Engineer role is an exciting opportunity to work alongside a dynamic team. This position will take the lead on project initiatives involving the development of new formulations, optimizing or modifying processes, and enhancing equipment efficiency. The successful candidate will work closely with production teams to resolve processing challenges and improve business continuity across multiple facilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with Product Development and Engineering teams to lead internal process development and scale-up for new products and processes.
• Deliver high-quality products and processes to internal manufacturing facilities.
• Lead project work focused on formulation/reformulation and manage the engineering aspects of project delivery.
• Assist with the implementation of process improvements, measurement tools, and sensors aimed at reducing costs, improving quality, and boosting line performance.
• Troubleshoot issues related to formula development and manufacturing, particularly at the intersection of food and machine processes.
• Consider process rates and efficiencies to assess the cost impact on production.
• Travel up to 40% to collaborate with cross-functional teams, partners, and facilities.
• Participate in testing, trials, and startups, with the ability to lift and maneuver up to 50 lbs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Food Engineering, Agricultural/Biological Engineering, or a related field.
• 2-5 years of experience in food processing, including manufacturing processes, equipment, and materials, as well as process engineering and continuous improvement.
• Experience in formula development is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills with the ability to develop creative solutions.
• Knowledge of Food Safety protocols and the ability to document thermal and non-thermal information for proper filing/documentation.
• Technical certifications (Better Process Control School, Thermal Processing, Product Development, Culinary) are considered an advantage.
• Experience with fermentation and acetation processing is a plus.