Senior Process Engineer (Food Manufacturing)

TL;DR

Senior Process Engineer (Food Manufacturing): Designing, optimizing, and improving food production processes including mixing, cooking, and packaging with an accent on efficiency, scalability, and food safety. Focus on line capacity analysis, leading pilot testing, scale-up activities, and ensuring strict compliance with USDA and GMP requirements.

Location: On-site in Holland, MI

Company

hirify.global is partnering with a leading food manufacturer committed to operational excellence and high-quality production systems.

What you will do

• Design and develop food production processes, including mixing, cooking, baking, extrusion, forming, packaging, and material handling.
• Create and maintain Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), P&IDs, and detailed equipment specifications.
• Lead pilot testing, scale-up activities, and validation of new production processes.
• Support capital project planning from conceptualization through commissioning, including vendor selection and layout review.
• Analyze production data to eliminate bottlenecks and implement Lean or Six Sigma methodologies to improve yield and OEE.
• Ensure all designs and operations adhere to USDA, GMP, OSHA, and hygienic design standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• 5–8+ years of process engineering experience in food manufacturing or a regulated CPG environment.
• Strong knowledge of food manufacturing and sanitary system design.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar design software.
• Familiarity with PLCs, process controls, and automation integration.
• Deep understanding of GMPs, HACCP, and food safety standards.

Nice to have

• Experience with high-speed packaging lines.
• Knowledge of hygienic design standards such as 3-A or EHEDG.
• Lean Six Sigma certification.
• Experience in frozen, refrigerated, or shelf-stable food manufacturing.
• Prior project management experience.

Culture & Benefits

• Environment focused on operational excellence, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Culture that values accountability, collaboration, and data-driven decision making.
• Opportunity to work on scalable and compliant food production systems.
• Emphasis on sustainable initiatives regarding energy, water, and waste reduction.