Chemical Process Engineer

Gateway Search Associates; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

12 paid holidays

Relocation assistance may be available

Job summary

Gateway Search Associates in Richmond, VA is seeking a hands-on Process Engineer to support solvent recovery operations in a 24/7 manufacturing facility. This role emphasizes plant performance, safety, and reliability, working closely with operations on the shop floor to troubleshoot issues and drive improvements.

The ideal candidate has direct, hands-on manufacturing experience on a production line, a chemical engineering degree, and strong troubleshooting skills.

Qualifications

• Hands-on manufacturing/production experience on a plant floor.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with distillation processes preferred.
• Exposure to Process Safety Management environments.
• Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement experience.

Responsibilities

• Drive operational performance.
• Monitor daily KPIs, process trends, and alarms to maintain stable operations.
• Identify performance gaps and implement improvements to increase throughput and quality.
• Utilize process automation and manufacturing technology tools to optimize operations.
• Lead troubleshooting and problem solving; act as first technical escalation for plant issues.
• Diagnose and resolve process and equipment challenges in real time; perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Support plant safety and compliance; maintain safe operating practices on the production floor.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Problem solving

On-floor collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Job description

Richmond, United States | Posted on 05/24/2026

• Position Description Engineering; Manufacturing & Production
• Account Manager Susan Strickland
• Industry Manufacturing
• Job Type Full time
• Work Model ONSITE
• Country United States
• Date Opened 05/24/2026

Job Description

We are seeking a hands-on Process Engineer to support and optimize solvent recovery operations at a 24/7 manufacturing facility. This is a high-impact role focused on plant performance, safety, and reliability. The ideal candidate will be a go-to technical resource on the floor, partnering closely with operations to troubleshoot issues, drive improvements, and ensure consistent production.

This is not a design role. Candidates must have direct, hands-on manufacturing or production experience.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive operational performance
• Monitor daily KPIs, process trends, and alarms to maintain stable and efficient operations
• Identify performance gaps and implement improvements to increase throughput and quality
• Utilize process automation and manufacturing technology tools to optimize operations
• Lead troubleshooting and problem solving
• Act as the first point of technical escalation for plant issues
• Diagnose and resolve process and equipment challenges in real time
• Perform root cause analysis and implement sustainable corrective actions
• Support plant safety and compliance
• Maintain strong presence on the production floor to reinforce safe operating practices
• Ensure compliance with Process Safety Management requirements and plant permits
• Support and lead Management of Change activities
• Partner with operations and production
• Collaborate with production and supply chain teams on scheduling and plant performance
• Develop and update operating procedures based on best practices
• Train and support operators using process knowledge and technical expertise
• On call support
• Provide on call support as part of a 24 7 operation and serve as the first line of de escalation during plant issues

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering required.

2 to 3 years of hands-on manufacturing or production experience

Experience working directly in a plant environment

Strong troubleshooting and problem solving skills

Preferred

Experience with distillation processes

Exposure to Process Safety Management environments

Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement experience

Our client offers a comprehensive,flexible benefits program that enables you to create a personalized package of benefits for you and your family.

• 12 paid holidays each year
• Relocation assistance may be available