Process/Production Engineer - Des Moines, IA

Process/Production  Engineer – Des Moines, IA

Job Summary:
Responsible for providing technical expertise for the process by being embedded in the day-to-day operations of the location, supporting site & company goals that touch safety, quality, efficiency, throughputs, and technology improvements. This role interfaces with operators, supervisors, and managers both on-site, as well as with other functions remotely. This position is responsible for process improvements for production in all facets of operation through direct contributions to project development from conception through start-up. The role assists in leading day-to-day operations, tracking and understanding department costs, yields, quality, and processes; as well as updating standard operating procedures. This position may work with contractor management for the completion of projects within the department. This role spends time daily in the field as part of standard work expectations.

Essential Job Functions:

• Oversight of specific processes that may include projects. Project management may require, purchasing of materials and supplies, equipment installation, budget tracking, employee training, and startup of projects.
• Recommendations for improvements to company facilities, equipment, and safety programs.
• Interacts directly with shift supervision to produce desired operational results and employee development.
• Conducts review of paperwork (i.e. operational & Shift Supervisor, quality reports, and Production Review), as assigned.
• Participate in Human Safety, Environmental, Quality and the Food Safety Management for the site.
• Assist in daily operations/shift coverage as needed including some holidays and weekends.
• Participate in the On-Call rotation schedule
• Project design, development, and management that are specific to the operations
• Process and cost tracking
• Participate in, and lead Performance Excellence teams initiatives

Job Requirements:

• B.S. in chemical, mechanical, electrical, agricultural/biological systems, and industrial technology engineering preferred, (or candidates who are currently pursuing a B.S. degree in previously stated Engineering disciplines, or who possess the equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Plant/Industrial experience preferred but not required
• Project management experience/background is helpful
• Concern for Quality
• Strong Dedication to Safety
• Proven leadership
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to look beyond the task at hand, anticipate challenges, and develop options to overcome them
• Valid Driver’s license is required

Working Conditions:

• Dust
• Chemicals / Irritants
• The scope of the position requires exposure to and use of chemicals, solvents, and cleaners that may be hazardous and/or cause injury if specific instructions regarding their mixture, use, and disposal/storage are not accurately followed!
• Spring / Summer: Temperatures in some areas of the facility will be up to or exceed 100 degrees. Outside temperature may also reach 100 degrees with the potential for high humidity. You may be exposed to inclement weather conditions including, but not limited to, rain and wind.
• Fall / Winter: Temperatures inside and outside of the location may be at or below freezing. Outside you may face inclement weather including, freezing rain, sleet, snow, and wind.
• Some manufacturing processes within the facility are highly reliant on machinery and other processing equipment and, as a result, noise levels may reach or exceed 85 decibels and require the use of hearing protection for most of the work shift.

Physical Requirements:

• Able to lift and transport materials and equipment weighing up to 30 pounds frequently, up to 50 pounds on an occasional basis, and up to 55 pounds overhead on an occasional basis.
• Lifting or carrying weights over 50 pounds is rare. Employees are encouraged to request assistance in lifting or carrying objects that weigh more than 50 pounds.
• Able to traverse up to two (2) miles during the course of a work day.
• Able to move about or to a work site by stooping, bending, kneeling, or squatting frequently. May also require periods of prolonged sitting or standing.
• Able to operate equipment or diagnose/detect issues of machinery that may be located at different heights. May require work on ladders, scaffolding, or other work at heights.
• Requires a full range of physical motion to operate manual and electrically powered tools and test equipment, to move throughout the facility, including climbing stairs in all buildings, and to work at heights.