Process Engineer

Vesuvius; Kentucky; On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Vesuvius in Kentucky is seeking a Process Engineer for a 12–18‑month contract to lead the industrialization of new products, processes, and equipment into manufacturing. You will drive on-time, on-budget execution with a focus on quality, safety, and performance.

The role requires strong process management, problem-solving, and collaboration with R&D, design, and operations to ensure manufacturability and scalability. Experience with IQ/OQ/PQ validation and lean/Six Sigma methods is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering.
• 3–5 years of experience in industrialization, process engineering, or project management in manufacturing.
• Experience with equipment installation, process validation, and project execution.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, lean principles, and continuous improvement tools.
• Proficient in CAD, project management tools, and Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Lead industrialization projects from concept through production and transfer to manufacturing.
• Define scope, schedules, and resource plans; coordinate across engineering, production, quality, and supply chain.
• Manage equipment design, installation, validation, and ramp-up phases.
• Ensure safety, quality, and environmental standards throughout all stages.

Skills

Process engineering

Project management

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

CAD

MS Office

Communication

Cross-functional teamwork

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Job description

Job Description

This opportunity is a 12–18-month contract position.

The Process Engineer is responsible for leading and supporting the successful industrialization of new products, processes, and equipment into manufacturing. This role ensures that all industrialization processes are executed on time, within budget, and meet quality, safety, and performance requirements.

The ideal candidate combines strong technical knowledge with excellent process management and problem-solving skills to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence in a fast-paced industrial environment.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Execution

• Lead industrialization projects from concept through full production, ensuring seamless transfer of new products and technologies to manufacturing.
• Define project scope, objectives, schedules, and resource plans, coordinating cross-functional activities (engineering, production, quality, supply chain).
• Manage equipment design, installation, validation, and ramp-up phases.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and environmental standards during all project stages.
• Monitor and report process progress, risks, and KPIs to stakeholders.

Process & Product Industrialization

• Support the introduction of new products into manufacturing by developing process layouts, work instructions, and control plans.
• Optimize manufacturing processes for efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with R&D and design teams to ensure manufacturability and scalability of new products.
• Drive continuous improvement through lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies.

Technical Support & Validation

• Lead process validation and qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) for new or modified equipment.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective/preventive actions to resolve production issues.
• Support documentation and training for operators and maintenance teams.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner closely with Quality, Supply Chain, and Maintenance to ensure smooth process handover and long-term sustainability.
• Collaborate with suppliers and contractors to manage tooling, equipment, and technical deliverables.
• Contribute to strategic industrialization initiatives aligned with plant growth and modernization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering (or related technical field).
• 3–5 years of experience in industrialization, process engineering, or project management within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience with equipment installation, process validation, and project execution.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, lean principles, and continuous improvement tools.
• Proficient in CAD software, project management tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional, multicultural environment.

Key Competencies

• Process management and execution discipline
• Technical problem-solving and analytical thinking
• Process optimization and industrial mindset
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Adaptability and proactive approach

Equal Opportunity Employer / Protected Veterans / Individuals with Disabilities

Vesuvius is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment. We value diversity and encourage applications from all qualified individuals. All qualified candidates will receive consideration regardless of race, color, religion, sex gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

Company Description

Vesuvius is a global leader in molten metal flow engineering and technology, primarily serving the global steel and foundry industries. We develop innovative solutions that enable our customers to increase their efficiency and productivity, enhance quality, improve safety and reduce their costs and their environmental impact. Our history spans more than 100 years, we are on six continents with more than 11,000 employees. We value diversity. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We aim to deliver sustainable, profitable growth to provide our shareholders with a superior return on their investment, while providing our employees with a safe workplace where they ar