Lead Process Engineer — Sugar Beet Processing & Efficiency

Western Sugar; Scottsbluff (NE); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Western Sugar Cooperative seeks a Process Engineer to support all main processing lines in the Scottsbluff, NE facility, including the molasses de-sugarization unit. You will lead technical problem-solving and drive continuous improvement across safety, quality, and throughput.

The role requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering and 3–5 years of plant-process experience, with strong communication and teamwork. Knowledge of Lean Sigma and root-cause analysis is valued; travel is minimal.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering required; mechanical or chemical preferred.
• 3–5 years industrial process experience preferred.
• Demonstrated improvements in safety, productivity, and quality.
• Excellent communication with all staff levels including hourly workforce and senior management.
• Willing to learn Lean Sigma and Root Cause Analysis.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Responsibilities

• Lead safety leadership and model core values across the plant.
• Direct shift processing personnel in sugar beet processing to optimize performance.
• Collaborate with shift supervisors to communicate process changes.
• Ensure employees are trained in process controls and SPC.
• Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Compile data and reports to improve process, quality, and throughput.
• Engage with employees across areas to troubleshoot and improve performance.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Organizational skills

Planning

Lean Sigma

Root Cause Analysis

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

Word

Outlook

Job description

Western Sugar Cooperative seeks a Process Engineer to support all main processing lines in the Scottsbluff, NE facility, including the molasses de-sugarization unit. You will lead technical problem-solving and drive continuous improvement across safety, quality, and throughput.

The role requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering and 3–5 years of plant-process experience, with strong communication and teamwork. Knowledge of Lean Sigma and root-cause analysis is valued; travel is minimal.