Sr. Principal Engineer

Heartland Food Products Group; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food processing company seeks a Sr. Principal Engineer to oversee processing operations, focusing on Aseptic systems and driving process improvements. The role requires a BS in Engineering and a minimum of 10 years of experience in Aseptic Processing. The engineer will analyze production processes, design systems, and ensure regulatory compliance while mentoring junior staff. This position offers opportunities for significant impact in process design and optimization within a dynamic team environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience in Aseptic Processing.
• Strong hands-on knowledge of processing equipment and instrumentation.
• Experience in a food-grade environment (FDA, GMP’s, HACCP).

Responsibilities

• Develop expertise in processing operations for troubleshooting and design.
• Drive knowledge transfer to junior engineers through root cause analysis.
• Design processing systems and set specifications for new products.
• Analyze production processes to identify inefficiencies and solutions.
• Ensure compliance with laws and regulations and maintain safety.

Skills

Aseptic Processing

Process Optimization

Statistical Analysis

Project Management

Team Leadership

Education

BS in Engineering (Mechanical or Chemical)

Job description

The Sr. Principal Engineer is the principal technical point of reference for processing operations across the company with a focus on Stevia and Aseptic Process systems. Works closely with R&D and Operations to drive improvements in process performance through technical evaluation, technology assessments, and assistance in new process/product startup activities. Identifies, analyzes and solves processing problems by recommending, evaluating and executing alternative cost-effective solutions that cover a variety of situations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop deep expertise in all processing operations to drive effective troubleshooting, robust process design, effective training, and reliable operations.
• Drive knowledge transfer and development of more junior engineers through engagement in rigorous root cause analyses, process optimization exercises, and startup activities.
• Establish processing standards to be used for current and future operations.
• Design processing systems and set equipment specifications to deliver desired performance for commercial manufacturing of new products.
• Analyze production processes to identify bottlenecks, waste, and inefficiencies. Provide recommended solutions to address these issues.
• Improve processes to reduce costs, reduce variation, and enhance quality to meet customer expectations.
• Determine root causes of failures using statistical methods and recommend changes in designs, tolerances, or processing methods.
• Build a network of internal and external experts to stay abreast of new methods and processes to improve existing operations.
• Analyze and plan workflow, equipment placement and space requirements to improve manufacturing efficiency.
• Maintain effective communication with all people involved with or affected by assigned responsibilities.
• Ensure manufacturing processes comply with all government laws and regulations.
• Ensure a safe working environment by following safety rules and helping improve the safety culture.
• All other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• BS in Engineering required, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum 10 years in Aseptic Processing.
• Strong hands-on knowledge of processing equipment and instrumentation.
• Experience managing people and projects preferred.
• Ability to work hours as necessary to be successful and travel up to 50% as needed out of state.
• Experience in a food-grade environment (FDA, GMP’s, HACCP).

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Must be able to physically perform the functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions.
• Must be able to work seated using a computer and phone for long periods of time.
• Must be able to work extended hours, such as daily overtime and an occasional weekend
• Must possess visual acuity to document company records
• Continuous walking throughout the plant and distribution center.