Ironwood Plant - Process Engineer, Encapsys

Milliken & Company•Portage, MI

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Milliken & Company is a global manufacturing leader whose focus on materials science delivers tomorrow’s breakthroughs today. From industry-leading molecules to sustainable innovations, Milliken creates products that enhance people’s lives and deliver solutions for its customers and communities. Drawing on thousands of patents and a portfolio with applications across the textile, flooring, chemical and healthcare businesses, the company harnesses a shared sense of integrity and excellence to positively impact the world for generations. Discover more about Milliken’s curious minds and inspired solutions at Milliken.com and on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn . POSITION TITLE Process Engineer – Encapsys (Ironwood Plant) POSITION OVERVIEW The Process Engineer is responsible for monitoring and improving manufacturing process performance, product quality, and operational reliability at the Ironwood Plant. This role focuses on daily analysis of process and quality trends, optimization of critical process parameters, investigation of process deviations, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Process Engineer partners closely with plant leadership, engineering, quality, and operations teams. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic manufacturing environment and demonstrate strong analytical, statistical, and problem‑solving skills while applying sound engineering principles.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering.
Minimum of 3 years of experience in chemical manufacturing or specialty manufacturing.
Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to define problems, facilitate teams, identify root causes, and implement long‑term solutions.
Proficiency in data analysis, change management, investigations, etc.
Working knowledge of statistical methods and trend analysis.
Ability to interact effectively with production personnel, leadership, and customers.
Ability to occasionally push, pull, or carry up to 50 pounds.
Ability to wear respiratory protection as required by job duties or chemical safety data sheets.
Ability to travel domestically as needed.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of process control systems and cost‑benefit analysis.
Experience applying scientific and engineering principles to complex manufacturing processes.
Understanding of liquid and polymer chemistry, chemical kinetics, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and mass transfer.
Experience working in a cGMP environment.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

Process & Quality Performance
Develop a detailed understanding of process equipment, chemistry, and quality data systems.
Monitor daily process and quality trends; adjust critical process inputs to maintain target performance.
Lead and participate in investigations to identify root causes of equipment, process, or product quality issues and implement sustainable corrective actions.
Document and communicate process and product performance to appropriate plant and customer stakeholders.
Support Encapsys Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to quality, cost, delivery, safety, and operational excellence.
Continuous Improvement
Drive continuous improvement initiatives for assigned product lines.
Manage change management systems and ensure improvements are effectively implemented and sustained.
Assess and recommend improvements in safety, cost, quality, and performance.
Collaboration & Communication
Collaborate closely with the Quality team to ensure compliance with applicable safety and quality standards.
Communicate effectively with associates, leadership, customers, vendors, and contractors.
Be visible and accessible to associates in production, office, and support areas.
SAFETY, HEALTH & WELLNESS RESPONSIBILITIES
Adhere to all plant safety policies and regulatory requirements.
Actively participate in the site safety process by completing safety audits, participating in safety projects, identifying hazards, and contributing to safety improvements.
Serve as a safety team coach, sponsor, or project leader as assigned; attend and actively participate in site safety meetings.
Ensure emergency preparedness, including clear fire exit routes, accessible fire doors, and properly located fire‑fighting equipment.
Support associate wellness by ensuring access to first aid, occupational health resources, nurse support, and mental health services.
Complete all required annual safety training.
QUALITY RESPONSIBILITIES
Understand and comply with the Milliken Quality Policy, applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ISO 9000 standards, and relevant company policies.
RESPONSIBLE CARE & ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Understand and comply with the Responsible Care Management System (RCMS) and RC‑14001 requirements.
Recognize significant environmental aspects related to job responsibilities and ensure appropriate controls are in place.
Identify and implement opportunities to minimize waste, prevent pollution, and conserve energy.
Understand the potential consequences of deviations from operating procedures.
Immediately report accidents, incidents, or releases per company escalation protocols.
Contribute to continuous improvement of environmental, health, safety, security, and Responsible Care performance.
HAZARDOUS WASTE HANDLING
Comply with all company policies and regulatory requirements related to hazardous waste management (RCRA, OSHA).
Follow proper procedures for handling, labeling, transporting, and disposing of hazardous waste.
Understand spill response procedures and notification requirements.
Complete required training provided by the hazardous waste manager or designee.