Senior Process Engineer

Senior Process Engineer - Manufacturing Excellence

A leading global manufacturer in the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) industry is seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Process Engineer to join its team at a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Indianapolis. This is an on-site role offering the opportunity to drive innovation and operational excellence in a fast-paced, high-impact environment.

Role Overview

The Senior Process Engineer will serve as a technical leader, supporting manufacturing and process systems to enhance equipment effectiveness, streamline operations, and integrate new products and technologies. This role requires close collaboration across engineering, quality, and production teams to deliver measurable improvements in capacity, cost efficiency, and product quality.

Key Responsibilities

Production Support

• Oversee equipment maintenance and repairs, ensuring adherence to manufacturer protocols.
• Develop and refine standard operating procedures (SOPs) to improve product quality, consistency, and yield.
• Train and certify personnel on new or modified processing lines.
• Support process expansions to meet growing customer demand.
• Collaborate with quality teams to resolve field performance issues and ensure product specifications are met.
• Provide hands-on expertise with mechanical systems including pumps, motors, and valves.
• Supervise technical staff and provide mentorship as needed.
• Apply knowledge of aseptic manufacturing and utilities (CIP, SIP, steam barriers, sterility maintenance).
• Lead installation and optimization of process equipment.

Process Improvement

• Guide teams in reducing waste, enhancing process reliability, and increasing overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
• Define specifications for processes and equipment, and lead raw material trials to improve quality and productivity.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities through process redesign, tooling enhancements, and material optimization.
• Evaluate product designs for manufacturability and recommend improvements.
• Optimize plant layout and workflow to enhance efficiency and ergonomics.
• Analyze production data and present actionable insights to leadership.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce variation and elevate customer satisfaction.

Operational Alignment

• Maintain clear communication across departments to ensure alignment on project goals and responsibilities.
• Conduct food safety and defense inspections, reporting and resolving deficiencies.
• Perform root cause analyses and implement corrective/preventative actions (CAPA).
• Ensure compliance with internal procedures and regulatory standards (FDA, GMP, HACCP).
• Promote a culture of safety and support environmental programs.
• Assist in updating P&IDs, schematics, and layout drawings.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support plant operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, or Chemical).
• 5-10 years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven project management skills.
• Supervisory experience preferred.
• Experience in food-grade manufacturing with high-speed packaging equipment required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform physical tasks including climbing, kneeling, lifting (up to 40 lbs), and walking throughout the facility.
• Comfortable working extended hours, including overtime and occasional weekends.
• Capable of working at a computer for prolonged periods and documenting technical records.
• Must possess visual acuity for detailed inspections and documentation.