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Lead Process Engineer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Magnera Corporation

Process Engineer

Augusta, KY · On-site

Ability to lead meetings, Kaizen events, and other actions as they relate to the Engineering Department * Reviews, provides input, and / or approves process procedures * Specification review ...

Magnera Corporation

Process Engineer

Augusta, KY · On-site

Ability to lead meetings, Kaizen events, and other actions as they relate to the Engineering Department * Reviews, provides input, and / or approves process procedures * Specification review ...

Magnera Corporation

Process Engineer

Augusta, KY · On-site

Ability to lead meetings, Kaizen events, and other actions as they relate to the Engineering Department * Reviews, provides input, and / or approves process procedures * Specification review ...

Magnera Corporation

Process Engineer

Augusta, KY

Ability to lead meetings, Kaizen events, and other actions as they relate to the Engineering Department * Reviews, provides input, and / or approves process procedures * Specification review ...

Magnera Corporation

Process Engineer

Augusta, KY · On-site

Ability to lead meetings, Kaizen events, and other actions as they relate to the Engineering Department * Reviews, provides input, and / or approves process procedures * Specification review ...

Mural Group

Process Engineer

Morganfield, KY

$90K - $110K/yr

... Engineer focused on e-coat, paint, and surface finishing processes within a high-volume ... You will lead continuous improvement initiatives across the paint process, troubleshoot coating ...

Monument Chemical

Process Engineer

Brandenburg, KY · On-site

Lead and/or participate in process hazard analysis; support and implement corresponding action ... Process Engineering and Continuous Improvement* Continuous revisions of processes including focused ...

Monument Chemical

Process Engineer

Brandenburg, KY · On-site

Lead and/or participate in process hazard analysis; support and implement corresponding action ... Process Engineering and Continuous Improvement* Continuous revisions of processes including focused ...

RKW - North America

Process Engineer

Franklin, KY · On-site

Lead or contribute to cross-functional improvement projects and technical task teams focused on ... Minimum 3 to 5 years of process engineering experience in film extrusion, printing, embossing, or ...

New

Essity

Process Engineer

Bowling Green, KY · On-site

Process Engineer Who We Are Essity is a global leader in health and hygiene headquartered in ... Lead and manage mechanical maintenance capital funds planning and requests for the facility.

Kimberlyclark

Process Engineer

Owensboro, KY

Process Engineer Join the team behind iconic brands like Huggies, Kleenex, Cottonelle, Scott, Kotex ... Lead single or multiple product or process improvement projects with a financial scope of up to $10 ...

Kimberly-Clark

Process Engineer

Owensboro, KY · On-site

Process Engineer Join the team behind iconic brands like Huggies, Kleenex, Cottonelle, Scott, Kotex ... Lead single or multiple product or process improvement projects with a financial scope of up to $10 ...

Kimberly-Clark

Process Engineer

Owensboro, KY

Process Engineer Join the team behind iconic brands like Huggies, Kleenex, Cottonelle, Scott, Kotex ... Lead single or multiple product or process improvement projects with a financial scope of up to $10 ...

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All JobsLead Process Engineer JobsLead Process Engineer Jobs in Kentucky

Lead Process Engineer information

See Kentucky salary details

$19.1K

$104.3K

$147.7K

How much do lead process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead process engineer in Kentucky is $104,311.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,900.00 and $116,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a lead process engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

As a Lead Process Engineer, collaboration with cross-functional teams is a key part of the role. You’ll work closely with project managers, mechanical and electrical engineers, safety specialists, and operations staff to ensure process designs meet project goals, safety regulations, and operational requirements. This often involves leading technical meetings, integrating feedback, and aligning process improvements with broader business objectives. Effective communication and stakeholder management are essential, as you’ll serve as the main point of contact between engineering and other departments throughout a project lifecycle.

What does a lead process engineer do?

A Lead Process Engineer is responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, optimization, and management of industrial processes within a manufacturing or production facility. They lead teams of engineers and technicians, ensuring that processes run efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively while meeting quality and regulatory standards. Their duties often include process improvement, troubleshooting, project management, and collaborating with other departments to support operational goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead process engineer?

To thrive as a Lead Process Engineer, you need a strong background in chemical or process engineering, experience with process design and optimization, and typically a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen HYSYS or CHEMCAD), project management tools, and industry certifications like PE or Six Sigma is highly valuable. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing teams and collaborating across departments. These competencies ensure efficient process operations, high safety standards, and successful project delivery in complex industrial environments.

What is the difference between Lead Process Engineer vs Process Engineer?

AspectLead Process EngineerProcess Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees process design, optimization, and team coordinationDevelops and implements process improvements under supervision
QualificationsBachelor's degree in engineering, experience in process design, leadership skillsBachelor's degree in engineering, technical knowledge, entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentProject teams, manufacturing plants, engineering departmentsManufacturing facilities, engineering teams, project sites

In summary, the Lead Process Engineer typically has more leadership responsibilities, overseeing projects and teams, while the Process Engineer focuses on executing process improvements and technical tasks. Both roles require engineering credentials and industry experience, but the Lead Process Engineer often requires additional leadership skills and experience.

What are popular job titles related to Lead Process Engineer jobs in Kentucky? For Lead Process Engineer jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lead Process Engineer jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Process Engineer jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Lead Process Engineer jobs in KY? For Lead Process Engineer jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Lead Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Process Engineer job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,311 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Lead Process Improvement Engineer

Hawkins HR Consulting, LLC

Calvert City, KY

$115K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a Lead Process Improvement Engineer to drive operational excellence and continuous improvement initiatives within our client's chemical manufacturing operations. This high-impact role will identify opportunities to improve safety, quality, productivity, reliability, and cost while partnering closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, and EHS teams. The successful candidate will lead process optimization projects, implement best practices, and utilize engineering principles to improve plant performance and support long-term operational objectives.

This is an outstanding opportunity for an engineer who enjoys solving complex manufacturing challenges and making measurable improvements in a fast-paced chemical manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, productivity, quality, reliability, and cost reduction.
  • Analyze manufacturing processes to identify inefficiencies and implement sustainable improvements.
  • Utilize Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, root cause analysis, and other continuous improvement methodologies to drive operational excellence.
  • Lead cross-functional teams in planning and executing process improvement projects.
  • Monitor and analyze production data to identify trends and opportunities for optimization.
  • Develop and implement standardized operating procedures and best practices.
  • Support capital improvement projects by providing engineering analysis and process recommendations.
  • Partner with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, and EHS to improve plant performance.
  • Facilitate root cause investigations for process upsets, equipment failures, and quality issues while implementing effective corrective actions.
  • Track key performance indicators (KPIs) and communicate project progress and results to leadership.
  • Promote a culture of continuous improvement throughout the manufacturing organization.
  • Ensure all improvement activities comply with company safety policies and environmental regulations.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
  • Minimum 5 years of engineering experience within a chemical manufacturing environment.
  • Minimum of 3 years leadership experience through leading/managing cross-functional teams
  • Proven experience leading process improvement or continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Strong understanding of chemical manufacturing processes and industrial operations.
  • Experience utilizing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent project management and organizational abilities.
  • Effective communication skills with the ability to influence cross-functional teams.
  • Knowledge of Process Safety Management (PSM) and continuous process manufacturing.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
  • Experience with process optimization, statistical analysis, and manufacturing KPIs.
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary of $115,000 - $125,000
  • Up to 6% annual performance bonus
  • Comprehensive relocation assistance
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Career advancement opportunities within a growing organization
  • Opportunity to make a significant impact on manufacturing performance and operational excellence