Senior Process Engineer: Mill Optimization Lead

Ahlstrom-5; Kaukauna (WI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Ahlstrom seeks a Senior Process Engineer to lead process optimization across fiber lines, chemical recovery, and paper machine operations to maximize yield and reduce costs. You will serve as a key technical resource to help solve issues in our integrated pulp and paper mill.

The ideal candidate has 7–10 years in manufacturing process engineering, strong analytical and leadership skills, and experience with root-cause analysis and continuous improvement methodologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Process Engineering, Paper Science, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of manufacturing process engineering experience.
• Demonstrated success leading process improvement and optimization initiatives.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Experience with root cause analysis methodologies and continuous improvement tools.
• Excellent communication, project management, and leadership skills.
• Proficiency with process data analysis and manufacturing performance metrics.

Responsibilities

• Lead process improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, reliability, and cost reduction.
• Analyze manufacturing processes, identify performance gaps, and develop solutions to optimize operational efficiency.
• Provide technical leadership and support to operations teams during troubleshooting, process upsets, and root cause investigations.
• Develop process models, operating standards, and performance metrics to drive continuous improvement.
• Lead and support capital projects, including process design, equipment selection, startup, commissioning, and performance validation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to evaluate and implement new technologies and best practices.
• Utilize statistical analysis and process data to identify trends and recommend corrective actions.
• Facilitate root cause analysis and corrective action development for process-related issues.
• Mentor and develop engineers and technical personnel within the department.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, regulatory, and company standards.
• Prepare technical reports, project updates, and presentations for leadership and stakeholders.
• Support long-term strategic planning through identification of operational and process improvement opportunities.

Skills

Process optimization

Root cause analysis

Project management

Leadership

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Process Engineering, Paper Science, or related

Tools

Statistical analysis

Manufacturing performance metrics

Job description

Ahlstrom seeks a Senior Process Engineer to lead process optimization across fiber lines, chemical recovery, and paper machine operations to maximize yield and reduce costs. You will serve as a key technical resource to help solve issues in our integrated pulp and paper mill.

The ideal candidate has 7–10 years in manufacturing process engineering, strong analytical and leadership skills, and experience with root-cause analysis and continuous improvement methodologies.