Production Process Engineer II Nutrients

Company Description

Kaneka North America, a subsidiary of Kaneka Corporation of Osaka, Japan, produces various chemical products including resins, pharmaceutical intermediaries, food supplements, synthetic fibers, and fine chemicals. Located in Pasadena, TX, Kaneka North America includes Kaneka Texas Corporation and Kaneka Nutrients L.P. As a leading manufacturer of pharmaceutical bulk, intermediates, fine chemicals, and nutritional supplements like CoQ10 and Ubiquinol, Kaneka has been a technological pioneer since the 1960s. The company also offers advanced photovoltaic systems and has a significant global presence with subsidiaries in multiple countries.

Role Description

Monitor, audit daily, and if necessary, troubleshoot: Plant operating condition, Production rate, Quality of product, Yield. Maintain cross-functional relationship with Q.C. Lab. Provide training and assistance to meet process requirements.; Perform weekend duty coverage when scheduled. Propose modifications to the existing process. By working through the Capital Project Manager at KNA, ensure correct installation of new equipment and modifications. Work on special process studies, capital projects, and process safety projects as assigned. Perform training functions such as writing operating procedures and training operators and new technical employees. Prepare action plans through direction and team planning with the Production Manager.

Qualifications

• Monitor daily the operating plant process conditions for opportunities to improve safety, productivity, quality, and cost.
• Plan and conduct tests for the purpose of obtaining information useful to increasing production rates and/or improving quality and yield. Follow the procedure for conducting plant trials and use the Plant Trial form when applicable.
• Suggest modifications to existing process equipment. Generate PIR where applicable. Follow the PIR procedure for the Handover of New or Modified Installations.
• Plan, coordinate, and carry out new product/ grades and plant trials as required.
• Troubleshoot process and equipment performance.
• Lead and/or participate in problem-solving teams as requested.
• Use SPC tools to enhance process problem solving.
• Write operating procedures and conduct training of personnel when needed or requested.
• Develop a functional knowledge of the plant process computer control systems sufficient to perform troubleshooting.
• Train personnel on the process computer and process as requested.
• Assist the SHE Department in the preparation of environmental reports when requested by the Production Manager.
• Prepare monthly progress reports to the Production Manager, which include comparisons and analysis of production results versus budget targets for his/her area of responsibility.
• Perform Process Safety Management tasks as requested, such as updating P&IDs, completing PSSRs, updating process safety information (PSI) records, and participating in HAZOP teams.
• Must demonstrate the following emotional intelligence skills:
• Emotional Empathy
• Positive Attitude
• Excellent Communication Skills
• Flexibility / Adaptability
• Interpersonal Skills
• Maintain complete and open lines of communication with other personnel, functions, or departments to facilitate operations and interaction in the organization.
• Keep the supervisor informed of status and progress, ensuring that regular and periodic communication takes place.
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing professional publications, establishing personal networks, and keeping abreast of industry trends and related compliance issues within the area of responsibilities.
• Maintain professional conduct, attendance, and high ethical standards in the workplace, complying with the company’s policies and procedures.
• Fulfill mandatory training requirements applicable to the department and job duties as appropriate.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related field
• Experience in the nutrient or pharmaceutical industry is a plus