Senior Process Engineer (R&D)

Title : Sr. Food Processing Engineer
Location : Mount Prospect, IL (Hybrid)
Type : Full-Time Direct Hire
Compensation : Salary, Bonus, and Benefits Package

The Senior Food Processing Engineer plays a pivotal role in leading process development and optimization for innovation projects, from experimental design to full-scale production. This role collaborates closely with internal and external partners to enhance efficiency, optimize manufacturing processes, and drive business continuity initiatives. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in food processing, equipment design, and process improvement while working across multiple locations to implement best practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of new processing technologies from concept to commercialization.
• Oversee engineering projects and feasibility studies to support product innovation and business continuity.
• Work with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and solve processing and production challenges.
• Develop and document optimized processes for consistent, high-quality production.
• Support the engineering team in capital requests and R&D-driven projects.
• Travel up to 40 percent to collaborate with teams across multiple facilities.

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Food, Agricultural, or Biological Engineering.
• Five or more years of experience in food processing, manufacturing, process engineering, or continuous improvement.
• Strong knowledge of food processing equipment, materials, and process modeling.
• Proven problem-solving, project management, and critical-thinking skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within cross-functional teams.
• Experience with Acidified/LACF, Fermentation, or Acetation processing is a plus.
• Technical certifications such as Better Process Control School or Thermal Processing are a plus.

Benefits

• Incentives: Eligible for Short-Term Incentive and other performance-based compensation
• Comprehensive Benefits:
• Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with up to 4 percent company match & profit sharing
• Paid Parental Leave
• Wellness & Long-Term Care Programs
• Short- & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Education Assistance & Professional Development Opportunities