Process Engineer

Optima Chemical LLC; West Virginia; On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Optima Belle LLC is seeking a Chemical Process Engineer to lead process development and scale-up, coordinate production activities, and interface with customers and vendors. The role emphasizes safety, regulatory compliance, and efficient startup of new products.

The position requires a BS in Chemical Engineering with experience in batch and continuous processes, and knowledge of DeltaV or similar control systems. Collaboration across plant teams is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level degree required with focus on chemical engineering.
• Strong understanding of process development for batch and continuous systems.
• Experience with process safety, regulatory compliance and CPI practices.
• MS/PE/EIT is desirable but not required.

Responsibilities

• Develop process designs for cradle-to-grave projects and scale-up.
• Coordinate production tracking, batch sheets, and customer interface.
• Model unit operations and generate PFDs/P&IDs; support air emissions submissions.
• Assist with maintenance planning, equipment sourcing, and EHS coordination.
• Mentor junior engineers and interns.

Skills

Process development

Process safety

Communication with customers/vendors

Regulatory compliance

Batch & continuous processes

Education

B.S. in Chemical Engineering

MS/PE/EIT (optional)

Tools

DeltaV Controls System

Job description

Job Description

Education and Experience:

• B.S. in Chemical Engineering
• Technical understanding of applied process development/process engineering and implementation for both batch and continuous processes.
• Good communication skills with customers, coworkers, and vendors/contractors.
• A broad knowledge of Process Safety Management, process safety, CPI practices and standards, and regulatory compliance.
• MS, PE/EIT nice but optional.

Main functions:

Process development and Engineering, production coordination and tracking, customer interface, planning, and communications, laboratory/specifications development and coordination, and technical resource for EHS and all plant personnel groups to safely startup and establish new products and to improve efficiencies for existing product (yield/process improvements).

Duties & Responsibilities:

Production Coordination and Tracking

• Maintain and oversee Production Tracking Sheets for critical production/processes
• Maintain Customer interface and communications
• Develop and manage Batch Sheets for various processes as needed
• Become 'process expert' with focus on new processes; also includes existing processes

Evaluations (new & existing processes)

• Developing draft PFDs, and mass & energy balances
• Evaluating Optima's process capability and unit operation deficiencies for new processes
• Generate specifications for raw materials and in-process samples

Scale-up and Design

• Work with customer and internal personnel on an ongoing basis to evaluate the practical technical aspects of their R&D/scale-up work and provide guidance for most practical paths.
• Model unit operations and generate PFDs and P&IDs for "cradle-to-grave" processes
• Provide information to support air emissions submissions to regulatory (for Emission Master computer system).
• Working knowledge of DeltaV Controls System or similar with the ability to learn
• Assist Controls Engineer with SOC details/Instrument/Control and Interlock strategies

Capital Project Management

• Project oversight for new equipment install and technical resource for design efforts
• Vendor/contractor interface

Plant Tests and Production

• Develop Procedures, campaign change-over documents
• Assist with Process Hazard Reviews
• Lead/Assist with waste minimization efforts
• Generate Pre-startup documents and shepherd sign-offs
• Inventory (raw materials & products) control projects
• Logistics (packaging supplies, production supplies, shipping/receiving materials)
• Lead transitioning efforts of new processes to Operations

Operator Training

• Safety
• New & existing process chemistry and unit operations

Troubleshooting

• Process issues in the plant
• Process improvements

Maintenance coordination including critical equipment/parts sourcing

Mentor other Process Engineers and Co-op Engineering students and coordinate project efforts as needed

Competencies:

• Recommended experience in a chemical or manufacturing industry.
• Proficient in English, must have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work well in a team environment.
• Excellent math skills.
• Ability to troubleshoot, schedule and plan maintenance.
• Ability to develop and deliver clear and concise presentations along with detailed reports.
• Must have finger dexterity for typing and keyboard use.
• Overtime may be required.
• Consistent and regular attendance required.

Work Authorization

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. This position is not eligible for employer-sponsored work authorization (e.g., H-1B sponsorship) now or in the future.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Optima Belle LLC is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to protected characteristics, consistent with applicable law.

Company Description

www.optimachem.com