Oilseed Crushing Process Engineer – Continuous Improvement

Perdue Farms, Inc.; Chesapeake (VA); On-site; USD 89,000 - 133,000; Full time

Job summary

Perdue Farms Inc. is seeking a Crush Oilseeds Process Engineer to optimize oilseed crushing operations. You will improve safety, reliability, efficiency, product quality, and plant performance while partnering with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, EH&S, Engineering, Finance, and leadership.

A hands-on, analytical problem-solver mindset is essential for continuous improvement and accountability. The role offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, with a clear emphasis on operational

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in chemical, mechanical, agricultural, or closely related engineering discipline.
• 2–4 years of experience in industrial process engineering or related field.
• Ability to analyze process data, troubleshoot issues and implement improvements.
• Experience with process optimization and root cause analysis.
• Strong communication and project management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and production data systems.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and optimize oilseed crushing processes to improve throughput and yields.
• Analyze operating data to identify constraints and improvement opportunities.
• Monitor performance across preparation, pressing, and oil handling steps.
• Set targets, SOPs, and control strategies for process operations.
• Identify opportunities to reduce losses and improve energy and material use.
• Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and Engineering teams.
• Provide technical support during process upsets and deviations.
• Lead or participate in root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Support safety, environmental, and food safety compliance activities.
• Identify and justify capital projects and process upgrades; support design and startup.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Project management

Continuous improvement

Education

Engineering degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Production reporting systems

Process control systems

Manufacturing data systems

Job description

Perdue Farms Inc. is seeking a Crush Oilseeds Process Engineer to optimize oilseed crushing operations. You will improve safety, reliability, efficiency, product quality, and plant performance while partnering with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, EH&S, Engineering, Finance, and leadership.

A hands-on, analytical problem-solver mindset is essential for continuous improvement and accountability. The role offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, with a clear emphasis on operational