Process Engineer (Projects Focus)

Stepan Company • Wilmington, NC

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Process Engineer (Projects Focus) provides process engineering leadership for capital projects, supporting the Wilmington site from project conception through start-up. This role ensures that projects are safe, technically sound, and aligned with business objectives, enabling improvements in capacity, cost, quality, and environmental performance. Working closely with Project Managers, Operations, and Engineering leadership, this role applies Front-End Loading (FEL) principles and strong process design expertise to deliver practical, effective solutions in a manufacturing environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering
• +5 years of experience in chemical manufacturing or process engineering
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Front-End Loading (FEL) and capital projects
• Batch chemical process experience
• Strong background in process design and modeling
• Experience working with external engineering contractors
• Knowledge of PSM-regulated environments and industry standards

Responsibilities

• Serve as the process engineering lead on capital projects from feasibility through start-up
• Develop and deliver core engineering design packages (PFDs, P&IDs, MEBs, and equipment requirements)
• Ensure designs are safe, operable, and cost-effective
• Support commissioning and start-up to ensure systems meet design intent
• Apply FEL methodologies to define scope and evaluate alternatives
• Provide expertise in process design, including reaction systems, separations, and thermodynamics
• Translate business and operational needs into practical engineering solutions
• Support plant operations with troubleshooting and process optimization
• Use process data to drive improvements in throughput, efficiency, and reliability
• Participate in site initiatives for safety, environmental, and cost improvements
• Partner with Project Managers on scope development and execution alignment
• Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, and EHS teams to ensure successful project delivery
• Work with external engineering firms and contractors, ensuring quality and accountability
• Promote and support a strong safety culture
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, NFPA, EPA, and other regulatory requirements
• Integrate process safety and environmental considerations into all project work

Benefits

• Opportunity to work on high-impact capital projects
• Exposure to end-to-end project lifecycle from concept to start-up
• Collaborative team environment focused on continuous improvement and technical excellence

What This Job Offers

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