Sr. Process Engineer

Oterra • Sturtevant, WI

8h

About The Position

As a Senior Process Engineer at Oterra, you will serve as the primary technical catalyst for our North American manufacturing operations. With 10+ years of expertise, you will bridge the gap between R&D innovation and high-volume production, driving the scalability and quality of our liquid and powder color portfolios. You will partner with cross-functional teams to solve complex formulation challenges and implement high-impact efficiency improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Food Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 10+ years in specialty chemicals, food ingredients, or color manufacturing.
• Deep knowledge of unit operations, specifically mixing, milling, spray drying, heat transfer, filtration, and homogenization.
• Proven track record in troubleshooting complex processes using Lean or Six Sigma methodologies.

Nice To Haves

• Expertise in botanical extractions, natural/synthetic pigments, or encapsulation stability.
• Proficiency in Design of Experiments (DOE) using Minitab, JMP, or Stat-Ease to solve variability issues.
• Familiarity with B2B regulatory compliance and food safety standards.
• Ability to see the "big picture" of a production lifecycle.
• A passion for sharing knowledge and elevating the technical skills of the wider team.
• A result-oriented "can-do" attitude that thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Direct the design, optimization, and scale-up of diverse color systems, including emulsions, powders, and encapsulated formulations.
• Collaborate with R&D to lead seamless technology transfers from pilot stage to full commercial production, ensuring both feasibility and cost-efficiency.
• Participate in capital projects, managing equipment selection, commissioning, and validation (IQ/OQ/PQ).
• Serve as the lead technical expert in resolving complex manufacturing issues such as batch variability, pigment stability, filtration bottlenecks, and thermal treatment failures.
• Drive initiatives to increase Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) by reducing changeover times and optimizing batch cycle sequences.
• Define and implement robust process control strategies, SOPs, and technical best practices to ensure gold-standard product quality.
• Execute Lean and Six Sigma projects to maximize yield, minimize waste, and reduce energy consumption across production lines.

Benefits

• Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance available upon hire
• Generous paid time off plus 11 company-paid holidays
• Retirement contributions to help support your future
• Monthly employee engagement events and team celebrations
• A collaborative culture that encourages career growth, professional development, and internal opportunities
• The chance to be part of a supportive team where your contributions make an impact

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior