Process Engineer

Gehl Food & Beverage•Lathrop, CA

just now

About The Position

The Process Engineer leads process design, validation, and improvement initiatives in an aseptic manufacturing environment. This role develops process flow diagrams (PFDs), P&IDs, SOPs, and batch instructions, evaluates equipment and production capability, and supports plant operations, troubleshooting, and cost-reduction projects.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in food engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering
5+ years of food processing or food manufacturing experience
Experience scaling processes from pilot plant to commercial production
Working knowledge of aseptic processing and sanitary design principles
Ability to create PFDs and P&IDs using CAD software
Experience with PLC and HMI automation systems
Knowledge of equipment sizing and specification for food processing equipment
Experience writing technical documentation, operating instructions, and project proposals
Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis skills
Advanced computer skills (Microsoft Office, spreadsheets, and CAD tools)
Strong communication, organization, and collaboration skills
Ability to work cross-functionally with operations and customers
Desire to learn and support continuous improvement initiatives

Responsibilities

Develop process flow diagrams (PFDs) and P&IDs for pilot and commercial aseptic food production lines
Create and manage project plans, schedules, and technical documentation
Ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)
Write and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and batch records
Lead equipment qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) and process validation programs
Establish operating parameters and acceptable process ranges
Evaluate manufacturing system capability for new and existing products
Support new product development and customer product trials
Troubleshoot processing and production performance issues
Drive continuous improvement and yield optimization initiatives
Collaborate with Quality, Production, Maintenance, and Supply Chain teams
Identify and implement cost-savings projects, new technologies, and equipment upgrades
Develop ROI justifications and technical proposals for capital projects
Assist in training operators and maintenance teams on equipment operation, sanitation, and maintenance
Support pilot plant operations and scale-up from pilot to commercial production