Process Engineer
Manufacturing Operations

Location: East Houston, TX
Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire
Industry: Industrial Manufacturing

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Process Engineer to join an established industrial manufacturing operation in the Houston area. This position is ideal for an engineer who enjoys working directly with production teams, troubleshooting equipment and process challenges, and implementing practical improvements that make a measurable difference on the plant floor.

This is a hands-on manufacturing engineering position, not a primarily office-based design or engineering role. The successful candidate will spend significant time in the production environment, working alongside operations, maintenance, and plant leadership to improve equipment reliability, production efficiency, safety, and overall manufacturing performance.

The role offers the opportunity to take ownership of process improvement initiatives, support capital investments, and lead projects that directly impact plant operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate existing manufacturing processes and identify opportunities to improve productivity, efficiency, quality, and operational safety.

• Work directly with plant personnel to troubleshoot production issues, equipment performance problems, and process bottlenecks.

• Support the planning, coordination, and execution of capital improvement projects and major equipment maintenance initiatives.

• Develop and implement engineering solutions that improve production output, reduce operating costs, and increase equipment reliability.

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing waste, improving throughput, and maximizing manufacturing efficiency.

• Coordinate equipment installations, modifications, commissioning, and performance testing.

• Work with maintenance teams, contractors, and outside vendors to ensure successful project execution.

• Analyze production data, operating metrics, and equipment performance to identify trends and prioritize improvements.

• Establish measurable performance goals and track the effectiveness and financial impact of improvement projects.

• Support the development and implementation of standard operating procedures, engineering practices, and process controls.

• Conduct equipment and process evaluations to ensure compliance with applicable safety, environmental, and operational requirements.

• Collaborate with production leadership to establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs).

• Promote Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement practices throughout the facility.

• Provide technical guidance and training to operations personnel on process improvements, equipment performance, and manufacturing best practices.

• Assist with identifying opportunities to improve material utilization, production yields, and overall manufacturing costs.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a closely related technical discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process engineering, manufacturing engineering, or a similar role within a manufacturing environment.

• Demonstrated experience working directly in a manufacturing plant, supporting day-to-day production activities and resolving operational challenges.

• Experience supporting manufacturing capital projects, major maintenance activities, equipment installations, or process modifications.

• Proven ability to identify production inefficiencies and implement practical engineering solutions.

• Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies, including Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles.

• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with the ability to interpret production data and translate findings into operational improvements.

• Ability to coordinate multiple projects while working effectively with operations, maintenance, engineering, and plant management.

• Strong communication skills and a willingness to work directly with employees at all levels of a manufacturing operation.

• Proficiency with standard business and engineering software applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with AutoCAD or similar technical drawing software.

• Bilingual communication skills in English and Spanish.

• Familiarity with SAP or comparable enterprise management systems.

• Experience implementing Lean, Six Sigma, DMAIC, 6S, or related continuous improvement programs.

• Experience with industrial equipment, inventory management, and manufacturing cost reduction initiatives.

• Previous experience supporting manufacturing operations with a diverse workforce.

Work Environment

This position is based in an active industrial manufacturing facility and requires regular involvement in operations.

Candidates should be comfortable working in environments that may include elevated temperatures, industrial equipment, moving machinery, noise, and airborne particulates.

Additional expectations include:

• Ability to work flexible hours when necessary to support production or project requirements.

• Occasional on-call availability to address operational needs.

• Ability to lift or move up to 25 pounds when required.

• Occasional travel, approximately 10%.

Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable qualified individuals to perform essential job functions.

Benefits

The position offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Disability insurance

• Tuition assistance

Ideal Candidate

The strongest candidate will be a practical, solutions-oriented engineer who is comfortable spending time on the manufacturing floor rather than working exclusively behind a desk.

We're looking for someone who can walk into a production environment, recognize opportunities for improvement, work collaboratively with plant personnel, and take projects from initial problem identification through successful implementation.

Candidates with hands-on process engineering experience in industrial manufacturing environments are strongly encouraged to apply.

Ref: #209-Rowland Houston