PROCESS ENGINEER – STERILIZATION
Location: Terre Haute, IN
Job Type: Full-Time
Sector: Food Manufacturing
Salary: Open to discussion depending on experience
This is a hands-on engineering position focused on optimizing thermal processing, improving equipment reliability, and driving product quality, productivity, and operational efficiency. The role will work closely with Engineering, Maintenance, Operations, and R&D teams to develop and optimize sterilization programs and ensure equipment consistently delivers quality products within required cycle times.
Experience working with retorts and process authority is highly desirable.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Investigate, troubleshoot, and develop solutions for equipment, hardware, software, and process-related issues.
• Analyze manufacturing processes and implement improvements to increase productivity, efficiency, and equipment uptime.
• Support machine reliability and performance through continuous improvement initiatives and equipment optimization.
• Analyze sterilization processes, including heat distribution and heat penetration.
• Work with process authority to support the development and validation of sterilization processes and ensure consistent product quality.
• Conduct deformation studies to establish the appropriate balance of heat and pressure and help ensure seal integrity.
• Partner with Engineering and R&D to develop sterilization programs, process flows, and equipment capabilities.
• Coordinate with R&D on new product development and modifications to existing products.
• Drive machine improvements and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and equipment availability.
• Develop and maintain technical and engineering documentation, including preventive maintenance procedures, technical manuals, troubleshooting guides, operating procedures, equipment specifications, and drawing revisions.
• Serve as the primary onsite engineering interface for equipment and system installation, testing, fabrication, commissioning, and related activities.
• Assist with the installation, validation, and acceptance of new equipment and systems.
• Install, monitor, test, and service equipment and systems as required.
• Identify operational and skill gaps within the organization and develop sustainable solutions.
• Support the development and standardization of efficient engineering and maintenance procedures.
• Participate in supplier training programs for new and existing equipment and systems.
• Maintain accurate training documentation and records as required.
• Drive continuous improvement by identifying inefficiencies and implementing corrective actions within Engineering and Maintenance operations.
• Ensure compliance with SQF requirements, including documentation standards, maintenance plans, production processes, and housekeeping standards.
• Maintain a strong working knowledge of company safety policies and applicable regulations to ensure safe work practices for yourself and others.
• Utilize Microsoft Office and other integrated software applications to support reporting, documentation, and process analysis.
• Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
• Strong experience in process engineering within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills related to manufacturing equipment, automation, hardware, software, and process systems.
• Ability to analyze processes and implement practical, data-driven improvements.
• Experience reading and understanding engineering drawings, electrical prints, hydraulic prints, and pneumatic prints.
• Understanding of preventive maintenance systems, engineering documentation, and technical procedures.
• Knowledge of food manufacturing standards and SQF requirements is preferred.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across Engineering, Maintenance, Operations, and R&D.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and integrated software applications.
• Strong technical and analytical capabilities with a practical approach to problem-solving.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to identify inefficiencies, develop solutions, and drive continuous improvement.
• Ability to communicate technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• More than 5 years of experience working with retorts and process authority is highly desirable.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
• Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical, or a related Engineering field, with experience working as part of a team preferred.
• Associate degree (A.S.) in Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical, or a related Engineering field, with 3–5 years of relevant experience considered.
• Candidates with strong relevant industry experience and specialized sterilization expertise are encouraged to apply.