Process Engineer

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and optimize continuous production and manufacturing processes to achieve the output, quality, and cost goals of the organization.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, and 5S principles to improve plant productivity and process efficiency.
• Actively develop and manage cost-reduction projects.
• Identify and implement cost-reduction strategies and process enhancements.
• Lead and manage capital investment projects related to processing equipment and plant optimization.
• Collaborate with corporate and plant departments (Sales, Finance, Planning, Production, R&D, etc.) to optimize manufacturing processes, increase throughputs and achieve cost savings.
• Analyze performance metrics and KPIs to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Serve as functional lead for process optimization using statistical data, including performing design of experiments on the production line and the development of functional process control models.
• Identify process bottlenecks and devise solutions to resolve issues and improve processes.
• Collect production data and apply standard scientific and statistical methods to analyze, document, and diagram production processes.
• Assist with the introduction of new processes or equipment.
• Identify equipment requirements to improve productivity and meet capacity increases as necessary.
• Assist in initiation and implementation of the preparation of new or revised product specifications, process parameters, and procedures.
• Work alongside cross-functional team members to facilitate new product trials and start-ups.
• Evaluate new product trials/market samples through sampling and sensory appraisal.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP, CFIA, OHS, and internal quality standards.
• Collaborate with Health & Safety and Quality staff to ensure site manufacturing processes are safely designed, audited, and operated in accordance with policies and procedures.
• Conduct process improvement training across relevant departments.
• Coordinate technical documentation, analyze data, and prepare detailed reports.
• Maintain and organize operational documents, including SOPs and Line Operating Standards.
• Collect and interpret downtime data to determine root causes and recommend solutions.
• Identify performance metrics to maintain/improve reliability across the plant.

REQUIRED SKILL, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Post-secondary education in Food Science, Science, Engineering, Culinary, or related field.
• Minimum 5-10 years of experience in Process and Product Development role in the food industry; meat industry experience preferred.
• Project Management experience with the ability to utilize Gantt charts and Stage Gate processes.
• Advanced knowledge of engineering concepts, practices, standards, and systems.
• Experience implementing continuous improvement and best practice initiatives.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing processes (Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, etc.).
• Familiarity with HACCP, CFIA, and other quality standards/requirements.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills to interact with and motivate a diverse group of people.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to troubleshoot, problem-solve, and facilitate change management.
• Ability to analyze data, write reports, and present information.
• Strong computer/technical skills including high proficiency in Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Excellent customer service orientation and results-driven mindset.
• Self-starter with a passion for product development.
• Creative and flexible with a willingness to learn and adopt new ideas.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Comfortable working in production areas with hourly and salaried staff.
• Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Able to work flexible shifts as needed.
• Driver’s license and access to a personal vehicle for travel to other facilities (asset).
• Food manufacturing experience required

COMPETENCIES AND ATTRIBUTES:

• Strong critical thinking and communication skills to share ideas and influence others, including senior management, based on data analysis.
• Collaboration with colleagues in corporate and plants departments.
• Ability to lead and implement the Process Optimization initiatives.
• Coach and motivate employees across relevant departments.  

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work on the plant floor with occasional work in cold environment with slippery floors.
• Tolerant of working with raw meat products.
• Must be capable of the physical job requirements – standing, climbing ladders, maneuvering under and over equipment safely.