Process Optimization Engineer

Our client, a global leader in specialty chemicals manufacturing, is seeking an experienced and innovative Process Optimization Engineer to join their engineering team at their state-of-the-art facility in Denver, Colorado, US . This crucial role is responsible for identifying, analyzing, and implementing improvements to existing chemical manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, improve product quality, and ensure operational safety. You will drive continuous improvement initiatives and contribute directly to the profitability and sustainability of the plant.

Responsibilities:

• Analyze current chemical manufacturing processes to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement in terms of yield, quality, capacity, and cost.
• Design, develop, and implement process modifications, optimizing parameters and equipment to achieve desired outcomes.
• Conduct detailed process simulations and modeling to predict the impact of proposed changes and validate results.
• Collaborate with operations, R&D, maintenance, and quality control teams to gather data, implement solutions, and ensure successful handover of optimized processes.
• Lead and participate in root cause analysis for process deviations, quality issues, and operational incidents.
• Develop and update process documentation, including P&IDs, PFDs, operating procedures, and technical specifications.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies, equipment, and methodologies to enhance process performance.
• Ensure all process changes comply with environmental regulations, safety standards (e.g., OSHA, EPA), and internal company policies.
• Perform economic evaluations of proposed projects, including cost-benefit analysis and ROI calculations.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting expertise for complex process issues.
• Monitor key process indicators (KPIs) and implement statistical process control (SPC) techniques to maintain process stability.
• Participate in capital projects from conception through commissioning, ensuring optimized design and operation.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in process engineering or process optimization within a chemical manufacturing, petrochemical, or related heavy industry environment.
• Strong understanding of chemical engineering principles, unit operations, and thermodynamics.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Hysys, Aspen Plus, CHEMCAD) is highly desirable.
• Experience with process control systems (DCS, PLC) and data historians.
• Proven track record of identifying and implementing process improvements that resulted in measurable cost savings or efficiency gains.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
• Knowledge of safety and environmental regulations in chemical processing.
• Ability to lead projects and manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and a stimulating work environment focused on innovation and sustainability. This on-site role in Denver, Colorado, US provides a significant opportunity to drive impactful change within a major chemical manufacturing operation.