Associate Process Engineer

Company Overview:

Perdue Foods aims to become the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers, as well as for retail and foodservice customers worldwide, while changing the way animals are raised for food. As part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business, Perdue Foods blends tradition with a forward-thinking approach. We believe that success starts with our people. Our culture is built on teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters, and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. We prioritize growth, development, and work-life balance, ensuring our team members thrive. That’s Perdue.

Job Summary:

The Associate Process Engineer will specify and commercialize processes to launch new products, enhance product quality, reduce costs, and improve plant efficiency. This role involves close collaboration with Product Development and cross-functional teams with guidance. The Associate Process Engineer will support technology transfer from pilot plants to manufacturing, developing experimental test plans for feasibility, pilot plant and plant trial runs, and production validation. The position will support one or more projects of moderate complexity and technical risk with assistance. The role requires effective communication at multiple levels within the organization and working well in cross-functional teams. The position may require up to 75% travel.

Salary Range:

$56,000 - $83,000 per year (based on experience and qualifications), with an annual bonus available (variable depending on performance). Perdue also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical/Rx, 401(k) with employer match after 1 year, critical illness, accident insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts, and paid time off.

Principal and Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Lead moderately complex R&D projects and support complex projects under supervision.
• Conduct feasibility studies and implement new or improved products/processes.
• Assist in the development of innovative processes/technologies and the commercialization of new business initiatives.
• Develop creative approaches for testing and problem resolution.
• Provide process engineering expertise for effective technology transfer.
• Commission, validate, and start-up new processes/equipment with guidance.
• Troubleshoot the root causes of production issues and implement effective solutions.
• Perform thorough situation assessments, documenting manufacturing methods and procedures.
• Analyze and trend data to ensure that manufacturing systems reliably deliver high-quality products within specifications and cost.
• Document test results, conclusions, process parameters, critical control points, and specifications.
• Review engineering drawings, process sequence descriptions, and capital projects from a process perspective.
• Integrate process knowledge into the product development process.
• Build strong relationships with Product Development, Marketing, FSQA, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Operations during the commercialization process.
• Promote safety, regulatory compliance, and GMP requirements in lab, pilot plant, and manufacturing environments.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• BS or MS in Chemical, Mechanical, or Food Engineering or Food/Meat Science with 0-3 years of experience.
• Understanding of the process/product development lifecycle from idea generation and bench-top scale-up to commercialization.
• Knowledge of food manufacturing processes, including raw material conversion to finished products, product formulation, regulatory labeling, and food safety.
• Strong critical thinking, analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Clear verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present and review products.
• Able to work independently with guidance or as part of a cross-functional team.
• Ability to communicate effectively with and influence cross-functional partners.

Preferred Experience:

• MS in the above engineering disciplines or Food/Meat Science.
• Experience with technical documentation such as Block Flow Diagrams, Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), process layouts, and equipment specifications.
• Experience in food manufacturing (including co-ops and internships), with knowledge of safety, food safety, GMP, and regulatory requirements.
• Experience with or interest in data analytics software tools and AutoCAD is a plus.

Environmental Factors and Physical Requirements:

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.