Principal Process Engineer

This role is aligned to the Coffee Operating Unit

Location: Moore,South Carolina,29369

Schedule: Full-time, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Flexibility to work weekends and holidays as scheduled

The Principal Process Engineer will support the KDP Spartanburg Manufacturing Site and report to the Senior Process Improvement Manager. This role is instrumental in identifying and eliminating sources of waste across manufacturing operations while driving operational excellence through structured problem-solving, Lean methodologies, continuous improvement, and change management.

The ideal candidate is passionate about optimizing processes, reducing variability, improving efficiency, and engaging teams in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and eliminate the eight sources of waste, including downtime, defects, overproduction, motion, inventory, waiting, transportation, and underutilized talent.

• Lead and support structured problem-solving activities, including RCCMs, A3s, and DMAIC projects, to identify root causes and implement sustainable solutions.

• Drive change management initiatives that support successful and sustainable process improvements.

• Partner with Operations, Maintenance, and Quality teams to implement process changes that improve safety, quality, throughput, and overall plant performance.

• Develop an understanding of plant systems and support the training, teaching, and coaching of frontline team members on those systems.

• Facilitate and support Kaizen events, problem-solving workshops, and project team meetings to address operational and financial challenges.

• Monitor and analyze process performance data to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement.

• Support the development and implementation of standard work, visual management, and Lean daily management tools.

• Train and coach frontline teams on problem-solving tools, Lean principles, and continuous improvement practices.

• Foster and strengthen a culture of continuous improvement throughout the plant.

• Targeted annual compensation range of $100,000–$130,000.
• This is a salaried, exempt position paid biweekly. Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience. 
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates 

Benefits (Effective Day One, Where Applicable):

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• Disability Coverage

• Paid Time Off (including vacation and sick leave)

• 401(k) with company match

• Tuition Reimbursement

• Mileage Reimbursement

Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and applicable collective bargaining agreements.

• Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) in Engineering or a related field preferred.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred.

• Demonstrated experience using structured problem-solving tools and successfully implementing process improvements that deliver measurable results.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in structured problem-solving methodologies.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage employees at all levels of the organization.

• Hands-on approach with a strong bias for action and a demonstrated ability to deliver results.

• Proficiency with Minitab, Excel, and Power BI preferred.

• Experience with basic mechanical and/or electrical systems is a plus.

• Ability to repeatedly lift, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.

Keurig Dr Pepper (Nasdaq: KDP) is a leading beverage company with more than 150 owned, licensed and partner brands that meet a wide range of needs and occasions. Our North American refreshment beverage business holds leadership positions across carbonated soft drinks, water, juice and mixers with a portfolio of iconic brands such as Dr Pepper®, Canada Dry®, Mott’s®, A&W®, Peñafiel®, GHOST®, 7UP®, Snapple®, Clamato® and Core Hydration®. Our global coffee business spans more than 100 markets and includes the leading Keurig® single‑serve brewing system in the U.S. and Canada, along with powerhouse brands such as Peet’s, L’OR and Jacobs, and other regional coffee leaders. Our more than 50,000 employees aim to enhance the experience of every beverage and coffee occasion while making a positive impact for people, communities and the planet.

We strive to be an employer of choice, providing a culture and opportunities that empower our team to grow and develop. We offer robust benefits to support your health and wellness as well as your personal and financial well-being. We also provide employee programs designed to enhance your professional growth and development, while ensuring you feel valued, inspired and appreciated at work.

Whatever your area of expertise, at KDP you can be a part of a team that’s proud of its brands, partnerships, innovation and growth. Will you join us?

Keurig Dr Pepper is an equal opportunity employer and recruits qualified applicants and advances in employment its employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability or association with a person with a disability, medical condition, genetic information, ethnic or national origin, marital status, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

A.I. Disclosure: 
KDP uses artificial intelligence to assist with initial resume screening and candidate matching. This technology helps us efficiently identify candidates whose qualifications align with our open roles.  AI does not make hiring decisions; all decisions throughout the hiring process are made by talent acquisition team members.  If you prefer not to have your application processed using artificial intelligence, you may opt out by emailing your resume and qualifications directly to kdpjobs@kdrp.com in lieu of clicking Apply. In order for your application to be considered and opted out of AI, you must include the words "AI Opt-Out" and either job title and location or Job ID # in the email subject line in your email application.