Process Engineer Job Description Sample

Process engineers design, develop and implement a range of industrial processes to improve sustainability and profitability for the business. They are in charge of appraising existing processes and shaping manufacturing systems to maximize efficiency of the production process.

Role of the Process Engineer

• Develop, organize and enhance industrial processes
• Assess processes and interpret data
• Design and test systems
• Develop best practices to improve quality
• Carry out process simulations
• Implement risk assessments
• Evaluate and improve on processes in manufacturing systems
• Improve process capability
• Improve quality standards
• Carry out strength testing
• Maintain testing tools
• Suggest corrective actions
• Ensure timely completion of projects

Process Engineer Deliverables

• Feasibility Study
• Basis of Design
• Process Block Diagram
• Process Description
• Process Flow Diagrams
• Instrument Datasheets
• Equipment List
• Equipment Process Datasheets
• Material Selection Report
• Line List
• Plant Operating Manual
• Commissioning Punch List
• Standard Operating Procedures

Education and training

An undergraduate degree in chemical engineering, manufacturing or industrial engineering is usually required.  A BS degree in Engineering is often seen as standard educational qualification. Some roles may require a Master’s degree in a pertinent area of study.

Tools and expertise

• Familiarity with safety regulations
• Experience in process engineering
• Knowledge of process related standards
• Experience in process simulations
• Working knowledge of process engineering software packages
• CAD/AutoCad skills
• Knowledge in software such as C++, G&P Engineering Software and EngVert
• Skill in using chromatographic scanners
• Knowledge in vial handling systems

Personal skills and attributes

• Analytical skills
• An affinity for science and engineering
• Problem solving skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Communication skills
• Research skills
• To be able to work as part of a team

Salary

According to salary.com, the average Process Engineer salary in the US is approximately $82,347 annually. The salary usually lies in the range of $58,364-$69,559. The salary depends on the organization they work for. With experience, the salary of process engineers increases substantially.

Working conditions

Process engineers are often required to work in places like labs of mining and manufacturing facilities, research institutes and processing plants. They may also be employed by the government or consulting firms. They usually work regular office hours. However, Process engineers may be expected to put in additional hours when working on the field. The job also involves travel to various places to attend conferences on latest developments in the industry.

Career Outlook

After starting out as process engineers, you can look forward to getting promoted to supervisory or managerial roles. Those with management degrees can end up in top positions like division manager, president or vice president.