Process Engineer

Futamura USA • Topeka, KS

2d

About The Position

The Process Engineer works in the Technical Services Department and determines operations for producing products, developing processes that meet quality, cost, and efficiency requirements. The role troubleshoots production problems, takes corrective action, and researches equipment purchases and upgrades. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with flexibility based on business needs.

The engineer provides direct support to process areas and works with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and other engineering teams to maintain product quality and process reliability. The role applies process simulation, process equipment, fluid mechanics, rheology, slurry processing, film and web handling, and polymer-processing knowledge to improve operations. It also supports process safety, capital projects, commissioning, and the development and maintenance of engineering documentation and operating procedures.

Futamura makes NatureFlex and Cellophane packaging films from renewable wood pulp. These products are biodegradable and compostable. The company is expanding to meet growing demand for its products.

Requirements

• B.S. in Chemical Engineering.
• 1–4 years of process engineering experience in a chemical manufacturing environment.
• Experience troubleshooting process upsets and analyzing process information using statistical methods.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety and ability to promote safe work practices.

Nice To Haves

• Six Sigma certification.
• Minitab proficiency.
• Experience managing small to medium capital projects from conception through completion.
• Knowledge and experience in OSHA PSM.
• Experience with SAP software.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply process simulation models, including HYSYS or equivalent software, to evaluate process performance, troubleshoot operating issues, and support equipment design.
• Evaluate, troubleshoot, and improve process equipment, including homogenizers, rising film evaporators, adsorbers, distillation systems, condensers, mills, and solid material handling and conveying systems.
• Apply fluid mechanics and rheology principles to troubleshoot the mixing, pumping, and transport of non-Newtonian fluids.
• Evaluate and improve slurry preparation, mixing, and transfer operations to maintain consistent composition and reliable processing.
• Troubleshoot and improve film and web handling operations, including tension control, alignment, and wrinkle prevention.
• Apply knowledge of polymers and their processing behavior to improve product quality and process performance.
• Support process areas in coordination with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and other engineering teams to ensure consistent product quality and process reliability.
• Identify and implement process changes to improve safety, productivity, quality, and waste reduction.
• Participate in or lead PHA studies and investigate process and safety incidents.
• Develop or update standard process conditions.
• Monitor product quality, process conditions, and process efficiencies using statistical techniques.
• Issue reports that include data analysis, financial impact, and recommendations.
• Troubleshoot and investigate process upsets and product quality issues.
• Develop or update operating procedures and conduct training.
• Lead or support trials for new or modified products or processes and issue written reports of trial results.
• Support major capital projects and manage smaller capital projects within budget and schedule, ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, operability, and reliability requirements are met.
• Develop and implement MOCs for process changes and update documentation, including P&IDs, PFDs, and procedures.
• Use AutoCAD Plant 3D or equivalent design software to develop and maintain process equipment layouts, piping drawings, and supporting engineering documentation.
• Identify, develop, and justify capital projects using technical evaluations, cost estimates, and expected operating benefits.
• Assist with project commissioning.
• Lead and participate in PSSR reviews.
• Specify and size process equipment and piping.
• Assist in developing equipment and piping standards.
• Develop and maintain technical expertise in assigned process areas, share knowledge, and serve as a resource for plant teams and external partners.
• Follow applicable environmental and safety requirements and company procedures in engineering and operational activities.

Benefits

• Medical insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Dental insurance.
• Flexible spending account.
• Vision insurance.
• Prescription benefits.
• Generous paid time off.
• Company-paid disability insurance.
• Company-paid life insurance.

What This Job Offers

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