Continuous Improvement Process Engineer

Role Profile

Continuous Improvement / Process Engineer

Reports to: VP of Operations
Location: Elgin, IL
Department: Operations

Role Purpose

The CI/Process Engineer for the Mantrose Group is responsible for driving productivity, yield loss reduction, and conversion cost improvements across both dry and liquid food ingredient manufacturing operations. This role provides engineering and project leadership for process optimization, systems development, and Lean implementation, while building organizational bench strength and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The CI/Process Engineer works closely with Production, Maintenance, Quality, Supply Chain, Commercial, and R&D teams to identify opportunities, execute projects, and implement sustainable solutions. The CI/Process Engineer will also partner closely with R&D and Quality to support product scale-up, new product introductions, and ensure process capability aligns with quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and lead projects focused on improving OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), labor productivity, material yields, and energy/utilities efficiency.

• Analyze production processes to reduce waste, downtime, yield loss, and rework across all manufacturing areas.

• Partner with Production Managers and Supervisors to establish daily performance metrics (SQDCP boards) and action plans.

• Lead initiatives to reduce conversion costs, including direct and indirect labor, utilities, and materials consumption.

• Work with the Supply Chain and Scheduling teams on MOQ optimization, changeover efficiency, and inventory reduction strategies.

• Support insourcing projects by evaluating process capability, capacity, and cost models.

• Develop and implement standardized work, visual management tools, and process controls.

• Support effective utilization of D365 ERP for scheduling, material management, and production reporting.

• Lead problem-solving and root cause analysis using data-driven approaches (5-Why, Fishbone, Pareto).

• Act as site Lean leader, facilitating Kaizen events, SMED workshops, 5S programs, and standard work development.

• Train and coach operations personnel on Lean tools and continuous improvement methodology.

• Manage CI and capital projects from concept through execution, ensuring timeline, budget, and deliverables are met.

• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement at all levels of the organization.

• Act as a change agent, working cross-functionally to challenge status quo thinking and drive adoption of best practices.

• Mentor operations team members on problem-solving, data analysis, and process improvement.

• Collaborate with R&D on product scale-up, process validation, and new product introduction initiatives.

• Partner with Quality to ensure process controls are effective in meeting product specifications and compliance requirements.

• Support continuous improvement efforts related to food safety, quality systems, and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Food Science, or related field.

• 3+ years of experience in process engineering, CI, or operations improvement within a manufacturing environment (food ingredients preferred).

• Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and project management principles (Green Belt preferred).

• Experience in both dry processing (blending, bagging) and liquid processing (mixing, heating, cooling, milling) is a plus.

• Proficient in data analysis tools (Excel, Power BI, Minitab, etc.) and ERP systems (D365 experience preferred).

• Excellent communication, facilitation, and leadership skills.

Key Competencies

• Problem-Solving & Analytical Thinking

• Results Orientation & Bias for Action

• Teamwork & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Leadership & Coaching Ability

• Adaptability & Flexibility

• Project Management & Prioritization

• Communication & Influence

Success Measures (Examples)

• % Improvement in OEE and labor productivity

• Reduction in yield loss and conversion cost per pound/unit

• Number of successful Lean events and completed improvement projects

• Standard work adherence and adoption of visual management systems

• Contribution to insourcing projects and new product/process introductions

Pay from $80,000.00 + DOE

From big benefits to small, we take care of our associates!  After 30 days of employment, you will be eligible for a benefits package that includes medical, dental, life, disability, and business travel insurance, flexible spending accounts, EAP, stock purchases, and vacation/sick days/parental leave. We also offer a 401(k) plan after three months of employment. Associates are vested in the RPM Pension plan after completing five years of service.  Mantrose Group offers paid holidays and two floating holidays per year.  You are also eligible to earn three weeks of vacation on an annualized basis.