Process Engineer

Imerys; Sylacauga (AL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Imerys in Sylacauga, AL is seeking a Process Engineer to optimize manufacturing processes and drive continuous improvement. You will design solutions, commission new technologies, and transform complex data into actionable, profitable results on the plant floor.

The role requires a BS in Industrial or Chemical Engineering, strong Lean/Six Sigma knowledge, and hands-on ability to lead cross-functional teams, perform economic analyses, and support bold productivity enhancements.

Qualifications

• BS degree in Industrial or Chemical Engineering (related field).
• Project management experience is a strong plus.
• Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma knowledge required.

Responsibilities

• Drive plant productivity using fundamental engineering principles, Six Sigma, and Lean methods; debottleneck operations and elevate quality.
• Lead engineering feasibility studies, develop basic engineering plans, evaluate equipment, and design process systems.
• Prepare economic analyses and cost estimates to demonstrate business impact for prioritizing high-value projects.
• Troubleshoot daily production issues, supervise plant trials, and participate in commissioning of new technologies.
• Quantify and communicate complex process technology to management, production, maintenance, and admin teams.

Skills

Six Sigma

Lean Manufacturing

Analytical Skills

Cross-functional

Excel

Access

Project management

Troubleshooting

Education

BS in Industrial or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Excel

Access

Job description

Are you an innovative problem-solver who excels at optimizing systems and driving manufacturing efficiency? We are looking for a highly motivated Process Engineer to join our team in Sylacauga, AL. In this hands-on role, you will be the driving force behind our continuous improvement efforts—designing solutions, commissioning new technologies, and transforming complex data into actionable, profitable results.

What You Will Do

• Process Optimization: Drive plant productivity using fundamental engineering principles, Six Sigma, and Lean manufacturing methods. Your focus will be on debottlenecking operations, maximizing yields, and elevating overall product quality.
• Engineering & Design: Lead engineering feasibility studies, develop basic engineering plans, evaluate equipment, and design robust process systems from the ground up.
• Financial & Project Impact: Prepare rigorous economic analyses and cost estimates for proposed improvements, demonstrating their business impact to help prioritize high-value projects.
• Hands-On Troubleshooting: Actively resolve daily production issues, supervise and execute plant trials, and directly participate in the commissioning of new process technologies.
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Serve as a technical bridge, quantifying and communicating complex process technology to management, production, maintenance, and administrative teams.

What You Bring to the Table

• Education & Experience: Education: A Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field. (Project Management experience is a strong plus).
• Continuous Improvement Mindset: Solid working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Analytical Prowess: Strong math, statistical analysis, and troubleshooting skills, with the ability to identify core issues and implement lasting solutions.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong computer skills, particularly in Microsoft Excel and Access, to manage and interpret process data.
• Collaborative Drive: A self-motivated, proactive approach with excellent written and verbal communication skills, allowing you to thrive both independently and on cross-functional teams.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

To successfully perform the duties of this role, you will balance your time between the laboratory, the production floor, and the office.

• Mobility: Frequently standing and walking (up to 60% of the time) and sitting (up to 40%).
• Physical Activity: Occasional lifting and carrying of materials up to 25 pounds (up to 25% of the time).
• Accessibility: Ability to safely climb stairs and work at heights (up to 10% of the time), along with the finger dexterity required for equipment operation and computer work.