Sr. Process Engineer
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 5, 2026. First seen by Alion on Sep 30, 2026.
OVERVIEW
Perfetti Van Melle (makers of Mentos and Airheads!) is one of the world's largest manufacturers and distributors of confectionery and chewing gum with global brands that are being enjoyed in more than 150 countries worldwide. We’re currently seeking a passionate and enthusiastic Process Engineer to join our Rockford Production team.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
The Process Engineer will be responsible for managing the overall performance and efficiency of various production lines in the Erlanger production facility. Specifically, this person will be tasked with driving improved OEE, scrap and change management on the lines. This individual will lead and support all continuous improvement projects on the line (packaging material changes, equipment upgrades, installations etc). Strong interpersonal skills are necessary, since this person will work very closely with various stakeholders including Maintenance, R&D, Packaging, Production, Engineering, CI and Quality, to lead various productivity initiatives and act as a strong change agent in order to motivate and influence others. As a mid-level engineer, it is expected that the individual has the ability and experience managing complex situations and leading effective teams. This role also plays an important part in understanding and analysing process capability (through statistical analysis) and using Integrated Lean Six Sigma (IL6S) tools (ex. 5S, CIL, Centerlines, Visual Standards, Statistical Process Capability) to drive line efficiency improvements as well as ensure employee capability is being built.
- Provide technical and business expertise on manufacturing systems/technologies/products and materials; Maintain and create appropriate documentation for reports, project execution, and data analysis
- Provide expertise in machine, materials, methods, environment, and personnel to provide robust operating systems
- Lead and define all KPIs for packaging lines and provide a detailed plan to improve/control
- Collect data, interpret results, and formulate detailed technical reports. Communicate recommendations and influence key cross functional stakeholders on business decisions
- Lead commissioning plans, and factory acceptance tests for all new packaging designs. Work closely with local and group engineering to understand equipment requirements and tolerances
- Lead line trials alongside packaging engineer associated with new packaging/equipment. Single point of contact and technical project leader for all trials related to packaging materials
- Collaborate with equipment suppliers, maintenance etc to drive efficiency gains.
- Drive loss elimination while improving system and equipment reliability through demonstrated use of continuous improvement processes, problem solving, statistical analysis and support of productivity initiatives, Identify, Quantify, Eradicate previously prioritized losses
- Leader & trainer of IL6S methodologies, Complete 12 Step Kobetsu Kaizens or DMAIC projects. Owner of 1 or more FI work process (Site Loss Analysis, RCA, Kaizen Improvements, Working Principles
- Understand “Ins and Outs” of designated department through dept. process flow, personnel flow, machine transformation units, performance metrics
WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU
- BS in Mechanical Engineering, Packaging Engineering or related field
- 2-5 years’ experience in the as an engineer, preferably working with CPGs
- 2-5 years’ experience in engineering role leading packaging design or equipment installation. Proven involvement with equipment start-ups. Examples of collaborative team participation
- Knowledge of statistics, quality, TPM and production KPIs
- Technical expertise in all materials traditionally used for CPG packaging which include corrugated, paperboard, flexible films and rigid packaging
- Knowledge and experience working with VFFS, HFFS, flow wrapping, Bottling lines and other types of automated packing equipment
- Experience in an established World Class Manufacturing facility (TPM, Lean, 6 Sigma or High-Performance Work Systems) strongly preferred
- Strong problem solving and data analysis skills - Six Sigma Green or Black Belt Preferred
- Proficient experience delivering quantified results through cross functional teams - leading and coaching
- Training and Mentoring skills to develop Problem Solving capability
- Strong computer skills; proficient in the use of MS Office Applications, specifically Excel
- Ability to work off-shifts and weekends as required by the business
- Ability to travel to meet new and existing vendors in order to understand supplier capability, manage pre-press operations and provide support on high priority projects (5-10% Travel is estimated)
- Ability to travel to international sister units to learn best in class practices
WHAT WE OFFER
At Perfetti Van Melle, we are committed to fostering a welcoming workplace, where all individuals, regardless of background or identity, are valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives to the sweet success of our candy-loving community. Additionally, we have a core value of Care For Our People and we are proud to offer benefit programs that support our team members' goals and well-being including:
- PTO package including vacation, sick, personal, and pay it forward time off
- 13 paid holidays
- 401k with Company Match up to 8%, ranking in the top 1% of the country
- Annual Bonus potential and merit-based increases
- Comprehensive Health Insurance
- Annual well-being subsidy
- 20 weeks Maternity & 12 weeks Paternity leave options
- Sam's Club or Costco annual membership reimbursement
- Tuition-Free College Program or Free Continued Education (BA, Masters, etc.)
- Modest monthly candy allotment (Airheads, Airheads Xtremes, and Mentos)
Perfetti Van Melle considers a variety of factors when determining base compensation, including experience, qualifications, and geographic location. These considerations mean actual compensation will vary.
Perfetti Van Melle, USA is an equal opportunity/non-discrimination employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.