Sonoco

Process Engineer

Sonoco • $92K — $117K *
Milwaukee, WI 53215In-Person
Manufacturing & Automotive
Less than 5 years of experience
Today
Be an Early Applicant
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • B.S. in Engineering or A.S. in Engineering with relevant experience
  • 3-5 years in a leadership role in manufacturing
  • Strong mechanical systems and automation knowledge
  • Proficient in Word, Excel, CAD, and project management software
  • Knowledge of OSHA safety standards and mechanical safety practices
  • Familiarity with regulatory compliance and food safety standards
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Responsibilities

  • Lead plant environmental compliance and regulatory reporting
  • Support planning and execution of capital improvement projects
  • Administer plant safety programs to meet compliance standards
  • Provide engineering oversight for utility systems and production equipment
  • Coordinate preventative and predictive maintenance programs
  • Manage maintenance activities for plant facilities and infrastructure
  • Respond to after-hours equipment failures and facility emergencies
  • Lead root cause investigations to improve equipment reliability
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance plant performance
  • Manage contractor relationships to ensure project completion

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance with FSA/HSA options
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Access to wellbeing resources, including an Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Variety of insurance options, including life and disability coverage
  • Tuition reimbursement program
Full Job Description
The Plant Process Engineer is responsible for leading the plant's environmental compliance and sustainability initiatives while supporting the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of manufacturing processes and plant infrastructure. This position provides engineering support for manufacturing equipment, facilities, utilities, and safety programs, while assisting with the planning, coordination, and execution of capital improvement projects. Working collaboratively with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and Safety teams, the Process Engineer III develops and implements solutions that improve equipment reliability, process performance, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. The role also coordinates contractors, supports continuous improvement initiatives, and provides technical support to ensure uninterrupted plant operations.

What you will be doing:
  • Lead and manage plant environmental compliance by monitoring key performance metrics, maintaining required documentation, and assisting with regulatory reporting and audits.
  • Support capital improvement projects, including project planning, budgeting, implementation, tracking, and completion.
  • Administer and support plant safety programs to ensure compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
  • Provide engineering oversight for plant utility systems, facility infrastructure, and production support equipment to maximize reliability and operational efficiency.
  • Coordinate preventative and predictive maintenance programs for assigned equipment and systems.
  • Manage and oversee maintenance activities for plant facilities, including building infrastructure and critical support systems.
  • Coordinate equipment inspections, repairs, and maintenance activities with internal maintenance personnel and external contractors.
  • Provide engineering support for manufacturing equipment by identifying opportunities to improve reliability, efficiency, safety, and equipment performance.
  • Maintain 24/7 on-call availability to provide engineering support for critical manufacturing operations. Respond to after-hours equipment failures, process issues, and facility emergencies to minimize downtime and ensure the safe, reliable operation of the plant.
  • Lead root cause investigations and implement corrective actions to reduce equipment downtime and improve process reliability.
  • Develop and maintain equipment standards, maintenance procedures, and engineering documentation.
  • Monitor equipment and process performance using data analysis and key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Safety, and Engineering teams to support production goals and improve overall plant performance.
  • Ensure assigned projects and equipment comply with company standards, environmental regulations, and applicable safety requirements.
  • Manage contractor relationships and ensure work is completed safely, on schedule, and within budget.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on increasing productivity, reducing costs, improving reliability, and enhancing operational performance.
  • Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.


This position will be located at our Milwaukee, WI facility.

We'd love to hear from you if:
  • B.S. in Engineering (or A.S in Engineering with equivalent experience)
  • 3-5 years experience in a leadership role within a manufacturing environment.
  • Strong background in mechanical systems, electronics/automation, and chemical processes.
  • Advanced computer skills in Word, Excel, CAD, and other project management software.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of OSHA safety requirements, with a strong emphasis on mechanical safety practices, machine guarding, energy isolation, lockout/tagout (LOTO), confined space entry, fall protection, and safe work procedures.
  • Knowledge of regulatory compliance, food safety standards, and environmental controls.
  • Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes, equipment, and quality control standards.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.


Compensation:

The annual base salary range for this role is as follows:

Engineer II, Plant Process is from $92,800 to $104,400, plus a quarterly target bonus of 12.5% of base salary.

Engineer III, Plant Process is from $104,800 to $117,900, plus a quarterly target bonus of 12.5% of base salary.

An annual incentive is awarded to eligible employees upon attaining various business and individual goals as defined by the Company and the department leader. This annual incentive is discretionary, and the Company has sole discretion to determine the amount of the award.

At Sonoco Products Company, we offer a comprehensive total rewards package, including competitive pay and benefits. *Benefits listed below are for employees located in the U.S. Specific benefits and wellbeing programs may vary depending on your location (within the U.S. or global), or if you are a union employee.

Benefits
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Wellbeing tools and resources to support holistic health, including an Employee Assistance Program with a variety of services
  • Paid time off and holidays to recreate, rejuvenate and care for the health of yourself and family
  • Variety of company paid and voluntary employee-paid insurance plans including life, personal accident, and disability insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement


About Sonoco

Sonoco is a supplier of packaging and recycling services. Their products include rigid paper containers, rigid plastic packaging, blister packaging, metal packaging, tubes, reels, plastic plugs, ink cartridges, uncoated recycled paperboard, foam packaging, fast packs, protection for paper rolls, molded foam components, medical packaging solutions, medical packaging equipment, temperature assurance packaging, etc. They serve markets including automotive, healthcare, household, food and beverages, construction, textiles, and more.

Sonoco Careers

Join Sonoco, a global leader in packaging solutions, and become part of a team that thrives on innovation, leadership, and diversity. At Sonoco, we offer more than just job opportunities; we provide a platform for professional growth and development in an environment that values each individual's contribution.

Work You’ll Do

At Sonoco, we are committed to driving progress in the packaging industry through innovative solutions. By joining our team, you will collaborate with skilled professionals to solve complex challenges and help our clients achieve sustainable success. Our commitment to leadership and diversity training ensures that every team member is equipped to lead, inspire, and grow.

Explore Career Paths

Whether you are looking for an internship, a full-time position, or a leadership role, Sonoco offers a range of career paths to suit your professional goals. Our hiring process is designed to identify and nurture talent, ensuring that the right skills are matched with the right opportunities.

Innovate and Lead

Be part of a culture that fosters innovation and continuous improvement. At Sonoco, you will work alongside industry experts to develop groundbreaking solutions that make a real difference. Our leadership programs offer the tools and training you need to advance your career and lead with confidence.

Benefits and Growth

Sonoco is dedicated to the growth and well-being of its employees. We offer competitive benefits, including health, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. Our focus on career growth means we support you every step of the way, from refining your resume to preparing for your next interview.

Join Our Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. At Sonoco, every position offers the chance to make an impact.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest in career opportunities and company news. Join our networking events, participate in diversity initiatives, and connect with other professionals who share your passion for innovation and excellence.

Job Alert Emails

Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Sonoco. Explore the possibilities with Sonoco and build a career that you can be proud of. Join us in making a global impact through innovative packaging solutions.
Learn more about Sonoco
Size
20,500 employees
Market Cap
$5.8 billion
Industry
Food & Beverages
Net Income
$207.4 million
Founded
1899
5 Year Trend
+3.2%
Revenue
$5.2 billion
NASDAQ
SON
* Ladders Estimates

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