Process Engineer

Tessenderlo Group•Davenport, IA

43d•$60,000 - $85,000•Onsite

About The Position

This role is responsible for optimizing and controlling the gelatin production process, supporting all production operations from raw material treatment through to finished goods and by-products. The primary focus is on improving yield, quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. This position leads process improvement initiatives, supports engineering projects, and ensures compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in chemical or food engineering or related field preferred.
3+ years of experience in process engineering or production optimization in a chemical, food, or pharmaceutical environment.
Problem-solving mindset with a continuous improvement approach.
Effective communication and collaboration abilities.
Proficient in MS Office and ERP systems.

Nice To Haves

Technical education provides a strong foundation in process chemistry or engineering principles relevant to gelatin production.
Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

Monitor gelatin process performance and ensure key performance indicators (KPIs) remain under control.
Analyze production yield and capacity; identify and implement improvement opportunities.
Evaluate usage of production resources (e.g., utilities, chemicals, supplies) and lead cost-saving initiatives.
Measure product quality throughout the process; support quality improvement activities.
Lead process improvement initiatives in collaboration with South America Operations Technical Support.
Assist in plant validation activities and global Manufacturing Excellence (ME) programs.
Follow project management principles and collaborate with the Global Technology Manager on the implementation of new technologies or process changes.
Support the development and execution of process improvement projects, including those requiring capital investment.
Design experiments and managing product/process improvement trials.
Collaborate with production and maintenance teams to execute improvement initiatives.
Ensure accurate process data is used in project design and implementation.
Coordinate with QA/QC to ensure improvements meet quality standards.
Oversee commissioning and ensure successful performance of implemented projects.
Ensure adherence to safety, health, environmental, food safety, and GMP guidelines.
Participate in HACCP studies and activities.
Contribute to Process Safety Management (PSM) and Risk Management Plan (RMP) programs.
Develop and maintain process standards and training documentation.
Ensure knowledge is documented and shared within the plant to support continuous improvement.
Stay current with technological advancements and apply them within the department.
Participate in and support safety and food safety training initiatives.
Deliver process training to relevant plant personnel.
Document all process changes and improvements in SOPs before implementation.
Promote Manufacturing Excellence principles across the operation.