Process Engineer

Kerry; Rochester (MN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Kerry is seeking a Process Engineer with a primary focus on Automation & Controls to design, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes across packaging and production lines. The role involves PLC programming, SCADA integration, and collaboration with electrical, instrumentation, and IT teams to improve reliability and efficiency.

The candidate will support scale‑up, qualification, and validation of new processes, ensuring compliance with GMP-like standards and safe manufacturing practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, or related field.
• 3–7+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Proven hands-on experience with PLC programming using APT software.
• iFIX SCADA system configuration, development, and troubleshooting.
• Strong understanding of industrial automation, instrumentation, and control systems.
• Experience analyzing process data and implementing improvements.

Responsibilities

• Develop, monitor, and continuously improve manufacturing processes for efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Analyze process data and implement solutions to reduce variability and downtime.
• Support scale-up, commissioning, and validation of new processes and equipment.
• Perform RCA and FMEA on failed equipment.
• Lead process improvements related to packaging lines and production support.
• Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and R&D teams.

Skills

PLC programming

iFIX SCADA

Industrial automation

Process data analysis

Troubleshooting

Cross-functional collaboration

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related field

3–7+ years of relevant industry experience

Tools

APT PLC programming

iFIX SCADA

Job description

About Kerry

Kerry is the world's leading taste and nutrition company for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. Every day we partner with customers to create healthier, tastier and more sustainable products that are consumed by billions of people across the world. Our vision is to be our customers' most valued partner, creating a world of sustainable nutrition. A career with Kerry offers you an opportunity to shape the future of food while providing you opportunities to explore and grow in a truly global environment.

About the role

Key responsibilities

Process Engineering & Optimization

• Develop, monitor, and continuously improve manufacturing processes to ensure efficiency, quality, and safety.

• Analyze process data and implement solutions to reduce variability, increase throughput, and minimize downtime.

• Support scale-up, commissioning, and validation of new processes and equipment.

• Perform RCA and FMEA on failed equipment.

Automation & Controls (Primary Focus)

• Design, develop, and maintain PLC programs using APT software for process automation and control.

• Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot iFIX SCADA systems, including HMI development and data visualization.

• Integrate PLC systems with SCADA for seamless process monitoring and control.

• Diagnose and resolve control system issues, ensuring minimal disruption to production.

• Collaborate with electrical, instrumentation, and IT teams on system upgrades and improvements.

Process Systems & Equipment

• Provide technical expertise in processes including

• Evaporation systems

• Fermentation processes

• Separation technologies (filtration, centrifugation, etc.)

• Spray drying operations

• Support equipment design, selection, and troubleshooting.

Packaging & Production Support

• Lead process improvements related to powder and liquid packaging lines.

• Optimize packaging operations for efficiency, accuracy, and product integrity.

• Troubleshoot issues related to filling, conveying, dosing, and sealing systems.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with operations, maintenance, quality, and R&D teams.

• Train operators and engineers on control systems and process best practices.

• Participate in safety reviews, process hazard analyses (PHA), and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications and skills

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, or related field

• 3–7+ years of relevant industry experience

• Proven hands-on experience with PLC programming using APT software

• iFIX SCADA system configuration, development, and troubleshooting

• Strong understanding of industrial automation, instrumentation, and control systems

• Experience analyzing process data and implementing improvements

Preferred (Strongly Desired)

• Experience with one or more of the following

• Evaporation

• Fermentation

• Separation processes

• Spray drying

• Experience in powder handling and processing systems

• Experience with liquid and powder packaging equipment

• Knowledge of GMP, food, pharmaceutical, or chemical manufacturing environments

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills

• Ability to work both independently and in cross-functional teams

• Detail-oriented with strong analytical skills

• Excellent communication and technical documentation skills

• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment