Shift Engineer

This role serves as both the technical expert and a leader for the continuous production operations in the designed process area.  The Shift Engineer is responsible for the overall performance of the process, which includes monitoring, optimizing, and troubleshooting various chemical manufacturing production lines.  This role partners with the shift supervisor to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant production while addressing technical issues, maintaining equipment, and leading the shift team to meet production goals.  The Shift Engineer also assists with trials and new product development as they are transitioned to commercial processes.

Duties and Responsibilities: 

 Safety and Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, and plant-specific safety and environmental regulations.
• Conduct risk assessments, participate in safety audits, PHA’s and PSSR’s, and enforce proper use of PPE and safety protocols.
• Issue Safe Work Permits in accordance with company policies.
• Respond to emergencies, such as chemical spills or equipment failures, following established procedures.

Quality Control:

• In partnership with the shift supervisor and the crew, responsible for writing, updating, and ensuring adherence to procedures, work instructions, and forms.
• Oversee product quality by monitoring process conditions, analyzing testing data, and ensuring adherence to specifications within acceptable tolerances.
• Collaborate with quality assurance teams to address non-conformances and implement corrective actions.

Team Collaboration and Reporting:

• Work closely with supervisors, operators, technicians, and other shift personnel to ensure smooth operations.
• Act as a direct stand in for the shift supervisor, as necessary, performing all required job functions.
• Provide technical guidance and training to staff and operators.
• Document shift activities, incidents, and production data in logs and reports 

 Continuous Improvement:

• Participate and lead 5S and Kaizen events to improve safety and eliminate waste.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements, cost reduction, or energy efficiency.
• Participate in root cause analyses and contribute to plant-wide improvement initiative
• Implement corrective actions to maintain continuous operation and prevent downtime.

Process Monitoring and Optimization:

• Monitor chemical processes, equipment performance, and production metrics using DCS, PLC’s and manual records.  
• Optimize process parameters to maximize yield, quality, and efficiency while minimizing waste and energy use.
• Diagnose and resolve process-related issues, such as equipment malfunctions, product quality deviations, or production bottlenecks.
• Analyze real-time data to identify and address deviations from standard operating conditions.

Equipment Maintenance and Reliability:

• Coordinate with maintenance teams to perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and repairs during the shift.
• Identify and report equipment issues that could impact production or safety.

 Required Experience & Qualifications:
 

Education:  Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or chemical engineering.

• Experience: 0-3 years in chemical manufacturing, prior co-op or internships preferred.
• Technical Skills:
  • Knowledge of process control systems (DCS, PLC, SCADA).
  • Knowledge of chemical process design, unit operations, and thermodynamics.
  • Familiarity with P&IDs, process flow diagrams, and equipment specifications.
• Soft Skills:
  • Strong leadership skills
  • Problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Ability to work under pressure and make decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to work rotating or night shifts, stand for extended periods, and occasionally lift 50 lbs. Must be comfortable working in industrial environments with exposure to chemicals, noise, and temperature variations.