Process Engineer

IKO•Kankakee, IL

14d•Onsite

About The Position

The Process Engineer at IKO Industries is responsible for optimizing manufacturing processes to improve safety, quality, efficiency, and overall plant performance. This role works closely with production, maintenance, and quality teams to identify process improvements and implement sustainable solutions. The Process Engineer analyzes production data, troubleshoots operational challenges, and leads continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste and increase productivity. The position also supports capital projects, equipment upgrades, and process standardization efforts across the facility. Success in this role requires strong problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and a commitment to operational excellence in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This is a safety sensitive position.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment with a proven record of driving measurable improvements.
Strong understanding and practical application of Total Quality Management (TQM) and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) principles.
Basic knowledge of AutoCAD and PLC systems (ControlLogix/RSLogix preferred).
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Experience leading projects from planning and design through implementation and completion.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, troubleshooting, and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Excellent communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills, with strong attention to detail and a proactive approach to complex assignments.

Nice To Haves

Experience in roofing, building materials, or other heavy manufacturing industries is preferred.
Lean Six Sigma knowledge and continuous improvement experience preferred

Responsibilities

Defining and resolving process problems through individual and team-based continuous improvement activities and structured problem-solving methods.
Developing standard work and ensuring operators and supervisors are engaged and trained in running plant processes consistently.
Commissioning new production equipment and processes, monitoring modifications, upgrades, and troubleshooting existing processes.
Working closely with the plant engineer to monitor and improve the efficiency, output and safety of the plant; Making observations and taking measurements directly, as well as collecting and interpreting data from the other technical and operating staff involved in order to develop and implement process improvement.
Provides technical leadership for environmental monitoring and ongoing performance of plant environmental controls and processes.
Working closely with the operators and staff who oversee quality control of raw materials, finished products, plant maintenance, product specifications and production schedules.
Identifying root causes and recommending the appropriate corrective actions proactively.