Process Engineer

Plantible; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive health benefits

Unlimited PTO

401k Program

Career development opportunities

Relocation support

Job summary

Plantible in Austin is seeking a Process Engineer to lead projects that optimize throughput and yield improvements. You will work closely with operators and scientists to enhance production processes.

The role involves analyzing data, implementing process improvements, and ensuring successful technology transfers. Candidates should have 3-7 years of experience in food or biotech manufacturing and a degree in Engineering.

Qualifications

• 3-7 years of experience in food, biotech, or ingredient manufacturing.
• Proven ability to lead process optimization and scale-up initiatives.
• Understanding of sanitary design and food safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Analyze plant and process data to identify inefficiencies.
• Design and implement process improvements in collaboration with teams.
• Scope and execute CAPEX projects to enhance performance.
• Monitor project progression and control budget.

Skills

Process optimization

Data analysis

Communication skills

Hands-on experience

Project management

Collaboration

Education

B.S. or M.S. in Process, Chemical, Mechanical, or Bioprocess Engineering

Tools

Aspen

SuperPro

AutoCAD

Job description

How you will contribute:

We are seeking a Process Engineer who combines analytical rigor with hands-on curiosity - someone who loves data as much as they love getting their boots dirty. Based in Austin but frequently on site at our Ranchito facility, you will lead projects that optimize throughput, drive yield improvements, and scale technologies from R&D into full commercial operation.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, high-impact startup environment—working shoulder to shoulder with operators, scientists, and engineers to continuously improve our production process from cultivation to packaging.

What you will be working on:

Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement

• Analyze plant and process data to identify inefficiencies in yield, throughput, and resource utilization.
• Design, implement, and validate process improvements in collaboration with operations, maintenance, and controls teams.
• Develop models, SOPs, and documentation to institutionalize process knowledge.
• Champion a data-driven, Kaizen mindset across the plant.

Technology Transfer

• Translate R&D findings into robust, scalable manufacturing processes.
• Develop detailed process documentation including PFDs, P&IDs, and mass/energy balances.
• Collaborate closely with pilot and R&D teams to design and execute scale-up trials.
• Support commissioning, validation, and troubleshooting of new process lines and equipment.

Capital & Engineering Projects

• Scope and execute CAPEX projects that enhance safety, reliability, and performance.
• Support the design and implementation of automation and control improvements.

What your week will look like:

• Work closely with the Engineering, Operations and Research teams to optimize current processes and scale up new developments.
• Spend time at the commercial facility working on process improvements & new engineering developments to successful tech transfers.
• Develop and communicate process designs using process flow diagrams, P&IDs, process narratives, and volume and mass balances.
• Monitor operations and project progression, resolve any issues that arise, and coordinate team activities to maintain the approved schedule.
• Update management team and other project engineers on project progress and requirements regularly in written reports and presentations.
• Control project pace and budget and manage project changes as needed.

What you bring to Plantible:

• B.S. or M.S. in Process, Chemical, Mechanical, or Bioprocess Engineering (or related discipline).
• 3-7 years of hands-on experience in food, biotech, or ingredient manufacturing; preferably in protein or fermentation systems.
• Proven ability to lead process optimization and scale-up initiatives.
• Familiarity with PFD/P&ID drafting, H&M balances, and process simulation tools (e.g., Aspen, SuperPro, AutoCAD, or equivalent).
• Understanding of sanitary design, food safety (HACCP, FSMA), and equipment standards (USDA, FDA).
• Strong communication skills; comfortable bridging R&D and plant operations.
• A proactive, “get-it-done” attitude with the flexibility to work on-site at Ranchito as projects demand.

Choose Plantible Foods

Joining Plantible means contributing to a sustainable future for all. We are a venture backed startup that is both spreading happiness amongst our employees and to current and future generations. We believe diversity creates uniqueness. Our team is composed of highly talented people with different interests and hobbies, which makes for a rich working environment.

At Plantible we are continually working on our offerings to foster the best team. Check it out!

• Competitive health and wellness benefits
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Discretionary Unlimited PTO Program
• Paid Holidays
• 401k Program
• Career Stipend
• Career development and growth opportunities
• Working in a rapidly growing, flexible and entrepreneurial environment
• Team building and company-wide events
• Financial support with your relocation, if necessary, ensuring a smooth transition
• And of course, lots of beautiful land for outdoor activities!

Plantible Foods is an equal employment opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, ancestry, veteran status, marital status, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, liability for military service, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you are interested in learning the status of your application, please note you will be contacted directly by the appropriate human resources contact person if you are selected for further consideration. Plantible Foods reserves the right to defer or close a vacancy at any time.