Ironwood Plant - Process Engineer, Encapsys

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES 

Process & Quality Performance

• Develop a detailed understanding of process equipment, chemistry, and quality data systems.
• Monitor daily process and quality trends; adjust critical process inputs to maintain target performance.
• Lead and participate in investigations to identify root causes of equipment, process, or product quality issues and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Document and communicate process and product performance to appropriate plant and customer stakeholders.
• Support Encapsys Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to quality, cost, delivery, safety, and operational excellence.

Continuous Improvement

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives for assigned product lines.
• Manage change management systems and ensure improvements are effectively implemented and sustained.
• Assess and recommend improvements in safety, cost, quality, and performance.

Collaboration & Communication

• Collaborate closely with the Quality team to ensure compliance with applicable safety and quality standards.
• Communicate effectively with associates, leadership, customers, vendors, and contractors.
• Be visible and accessible to associates in production, office, and support areas.

SAFETY, HEALTH & WELLNESS RESPONSIBILITIES

• Adhere to all plant safety policies and regulatory requirements.
• Actively participate in the site safety process by completing safety audits, participating in safety projects, identifying hazards, and contributing to safety improvements.
• Serve as a safety team coach, sponsor, or project leader as assigned; attend and actively participate in site safety meetings.
• Ensure emergency preparedness, including clear fire exit routes, accessible fire doors, and properly located fire‑fighting equipment.
• Support associate wellness by ensuring access to first aid, occupational health resources, nurse support, and mental health services.
• Complete all required annual safety training.

QUALITY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Understand and comply with the Milliken Quality Policy, applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ISO 9000 standards, and relevant company policies.

RESPONSIBLE CARE & ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Understand and comply with the Responsible Care Management System (RCMS) and RC‑14001 requirements.
• Recognize significant environmental aspects related to job responsibilities and ensure appropriate controls are in place.
• Identify and implement opportunities to minimize waste, prevent pollution, and conserve energy.
• Understand the potential consequences of deviations from operating procedures.
• Immediately report accidents, incidents, or releases per company escalation protocols.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of environmental, health, safety, security, and Responsible Care performance.

HAZARDOUS WASTE HANDLING

• Comply with all company policies and regulatory requirements related to hazardous waste management (RCRA, OSHA).
• Follow proper procedures for handling, labeling, transporting, and disposing of hazardous waste.
• Understand spill response procedures and notification requirements.
• Complete required training provided by the hazardous waste manager or designee.

QUALIFICATIONS - REQUIRED

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in chemical manufacturing or specialty manufacturing.
• Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to define problems, facilitate teams, identify root causes, and implement long‑term solutions.
• Proficiency in data analysis, change management, investigations, etc.
• Working knowledge of statistical methods and trend analysis.
• Ability to interact effectively with production personnel, leadership, and customers.
• Ability to occasionally push, pull, or carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to wear respiratory protection as required by job duties or chemical safety data sheets.
• Ability to travel domestically as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS - PREFERRED

• Knowledge of process control systems and cost‑benefit analysis.
• Experience applying scientific and engineering principles to complex manufacturing processes.
• Understanding of liquid and polymer chemistry, chemical kinetics, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and mass transfer.
• Experience working in a cGMP environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

SUCCESS PROFILE

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Strong application of engineering principles to solve complex performance issues.
• Initiative, adaptability, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• A collaborative, self‑directed work style with a strong work ethic.
• Confidence communicating across all levels of the organization and with external stakeholders.