OVERVIEWThe Process Engineer II provides engineering services for sugar processing for the refinery , with a focus on improving current operations. This is done by advancing process efficiency through the development and execution of sustainable process improvements in an older refinery. This position requires a hands-on engineering approach, a strong field presence, and the ability to support daily operations while improving melt throughput, reliability, recovery, and sucrose loss performance.
DETAILED ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES - Responsible for developing methods to improve existing processes through automation, process development, and the application of new technologies.
- Works with Control Engineers to optimize process controls and fine-tune control points to achieve improved efficiency, stability, and product quality.
- Assists Process Superintendents and Supervisors with troubleshooting process issues and implementing practical, sustainable solutions.
- Provides hands-on technical support in the field and routinely engages operators, supervisors, and maintenance personnel to identify and implement process improvements.
- Identifies and implements opportunities to increase melt throughput, improve recovery, and reduce sucrose losses throughout the refinery process.
- Uses operating data, laboratory results, field observations, and process trends to identify root causes and support data-based decisions.
- Develops, trains, coaches, and mentors operators and newer employees to strengthen process knowledge, troubleshooting capability, and operational consistency.
- Works collaboratively with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Reliability, and Engineering teams to drive sustainable improvements and operational excellence.
- Manages process projects and tasks as assigned by the Process Managers, including scope development, coordination, execution, and follow-through.
- Performs laboratory testing and process trials to support troubleshooting, validation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Provides operational support outside normal business hours during critical startups, shutdowns, process interruptions, and other high-priority operating situations.
- Works within all safety, environmental, food safety, and food security procedures.
WORK EXPERIENCES - Five years of Chemical or Process Engineering experience desired; experience in food manufacturing, consumer packaged goods, refining, chemical processing, or a continuous-process environment is preferred.
- Previous experience developing or assisting in the development of new processes, operating procedures, and sustainable process improvements.
- Demonstrated success identifying and implementing improvements in throughput, reliability, recovery, quality, energy use, or cost performance.
- Prior involvement in supporting multiple capital projects and coordinating work across operations, maintenance, and engineering functions.
- Experience training, coaching, or mentoring operations personnel is highly desirable.
- Experience supervising employees or leading projects involving employees in a unionized work environment is a plus.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS - B.S. degree (or higher) in Engineering, with Chemical Engineering preferred, or a related engineering field from an accredited college or university.
ESSENTIAL CAPABILITIES (KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES) Strong engineering fundamentals with proven abilities and practical experience in the following areas:
- Process optimization and continuous improvement
- Data-based decision-making using information from multiple sources
- Lean Six Sigma methods for triggered events and proactive improvements
- Unit operations, process fundamentals, and continuous improvement
- Process measurement, lab analysis, automation, and control systems
- Maintenance techniques and systems that support reliable operation
- Troubleshooting equipment, controls, and process performance
- Managing multiple projects, tasks, and deadlines in a fast based environment
- Organizational skills, attention to detail, and follow-through on agreed actions
- Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Visio; Wonderware and SAP experience are advantageous
- Food manufacturing requirements, GMPs, HACCP, SQF, safety standards, and applicable regulations
- Ability to communicate effectively and build productive working relationships across all levels of the organization
- Ability to balance technical analysis with practical field execution
- Creative problem-solving skills and the ability to challenge existing practices constructively to improve operational performance
- Self-directed work habits with a strong sense of ownership, urgency, and accountability during operational upsets
- Ability to learn the processes associated with refining and processing sugar cane
- Willingness to maintain a boots-on-the-ground presence to maximize the reliability and performance of an aging facility
- Ability and willingness to work flexible hours or various shifts, including nights and weekends when needed, to support melt delivery and high-pressure operating scenarios
