Entry-Level Process Engineer

Harba; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Harba is seeking a hands-on Chemical Process Engineer based in Indianapolis, Indiana. This position entails supporting the development, scale-up, and optimization of specialty chemical products. The role requires collaboration with engineers, scientists, and manufacturing teams to enhance process performance.

Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and will enjoy both laboratory and manufacturing environments. Responsibilities include design and execution of laboratory studies, troubleshooting process issues, and evaluating raw materials.

Qualifications

• 0–2 years of relevant experience in chemical manufacturing preferred.
• Knowledge of Design of Experiments (DOE) concepts is a plus.
• Ability to analyze and interpret technical data.

Responsibilities

• Support scale-up and implementation of chemical products.
• Design and execute laboratory studies and manufacturing trials.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing issues with a focus on safety.
• Evaluate alternative raw materials through testing.

Skills

Interest in chemical processes

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Statistical analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a hands-on Chemical Process Engineer to support the development, scale‑up, and optimization of specialty chemical products and manufacturing processes. This role offers the opportunity to work closely with engineers, scientists, technicians, and manufacturing teams to improve process performance, troubleshoot production challenges, and help bring new products from development into commercial manufacturing.

The ideal candidate enjoys spending time in both laboratory and manufacturing environments, solving technical problems, analyzing data, and driving process improvements. Approximately 80–90% of time will be spent in the laboratory and on the manufacturing floor supporting testing, process development, scale‑up activities, and manufacturing operations.

Job Responsibilities

• Support the scale-up and implementation of new and existing chemical products into manufacturing.
• Design and execute laboratory studies, analytical testing, and manufacturing trials.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing and process‑related issues with a focus on safety, quality, efficiency, and reliability.
• Conduct root cause investigations and develop data‑driven solutions to technical and customer‑related issues.
• Evaluate alternative raw materials and suppliers through testing and qualification activities.
• Perform chemical, analytical, and quality control testing to support product development and manufacturing operations.
• Support pilot plant and production‑scale trials, including data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Apply statistical tools and Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies to optimize processes and improve product performance.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, and Technical teams to support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, and safe working practices while supporting ongoing laboratory operations.
• Prepare technical reports and communicate findings, recommendations, and project updates to stakeholders.

Job Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Polymer Science, or a related engineering/scientific discipline.
• 0–2 years of relevant experience in chemical manufacturing, process engineering, laboratory testing, pilot plant operations, or related environments preferred.
• Strong interest in chemical processes, manufacturing operations, process optimization, and problem‑solving.
• Experience working in laboratory, pilot plant, manufacturing, or industrial environments preferred.
• Knowledge of basic statistical analysis and familiarity with Design of Experiments (DOE) concepts.
• Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret technical data and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including technical documentation and reporting.
• Ability to work effectively in cross‑functional team environments.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel and Word.
• Comfortable working in laboratory and manufacturing environments and spending significant time supporting hands‑on operations.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.