Senior Manufacturing Engineer
Location:
Pensacola, FL
Employment Type:
Full-time /Direct-Hire
We are seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to support safe, reliable, and optimized operation of a critical manufacturing unit. This role is highly embedded with operations and is responsible for driving unit performance through process optimization, performance tracking, troubleshooting, and execution of continuous improvement and technology initiatives. The position plays a key role in delivering measurable gains in yield, reliability, energy efficiency, and quality while maintaining strict safety and regulatory compliance.
Key Responsibilities
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Monitor and analyze unit performance using key process indicators (KPIs), key operating parameters (KOPs), and short-interval controls.
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Drive unit performance toward operational entitlement across yields, reliability, quality, capacity, and energy usage.
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Maintain accurate accounting of production losses and lead corrective action efforts.
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Develop and maintain operational entitlement and performance models to support data-driven decision-making.
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Troubleshoot complex process issues and lead root cause analyses (RCAs) to resolve technical gaps.
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Execute annual productivity and continuous improvement initiatives using structured improvement methodologies.
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Evaluate performance using statistical tools and structured problem-solving processes to drive process improvements.
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Support and participate in site process safety activities including PHA, LOPA, MOC, incident investigations, and action item resolution.
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Maintain and update unit process safety documentation and support regulatory compliance efforts.
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Assist with operator technical training and knowledge transfer.
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Develop high-level scopes and benefit analyses for unit-related improvement and technology projects.
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Represent the operating unit in technology, process development, and improvement initiatives.
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Collaborate with operations, reliability, engineering, and environmental teams to ensure safe and compliant operation.
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Provide operational coverage or decision-making authority as required during leadership absences.
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Support production planning, performance tracking, and closeout activities.
Requirements
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Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, or Electrical preferred).
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10+ years of experience in manufacturing or chemical processing environments.
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Strong background in process optimization and plant-based troubleshooting.
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Demonstrated experience driving operational performance improvements in an operating unit.
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Solid understanding of Process Safety Management principles and application.
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Ability to interpret process data, models, and engineering documentation.
Preferred Experience
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Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt training or certification.
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Experience with process simulation and modeling tools (e.g., Aspen or equivalent).
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Strong knowledge of heat transfer, hydraulics, and industrial process systems.
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Experience supporting continuous operations with off-hours or on-call support responsibilities.
Core Skills
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Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with a continuous improvement mindset.
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Ability to work effectively across operations, engineering, safety, and leadership teams.
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Clear and effective written and verbal communication skills.
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Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, dynamic manufacturing environment.