Process Engineer In Training Jobs in Chicago, IL

Alsip MiniMill (AMM) was formed in 2015 when Corrugated Supplies Company purchased the idle lightweight coated paper mill in Alsip, Illinois. MiniMill Technologies, Inc. took the lead on the engineering, procurement, and construction in order to convert and restart the facility to produce 100% recycled Corrugating Medium. In addition to its profound impact on the local economy, AMM consumes over 250,000 tons per year of old corrugated containers and clippings, helping to keep these resources out of our landfills.

Why Work for AMM?

AMM offers a dynamic work environment focused on sustainability, innovation, and operational excellence. As a leader in recycled paper production, the company values safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement. With strong leadership and growth opportunities, employees can make a meaningful impact while contributing to a greener future.

As an employee of AMM, you are eligible for:

• College tuition reimbursement for dependent children (up to age 26).
• Tuition reimbursement for employees.
• Competitive salary and benefits, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability coverage.
• 401(k) with employer contribution.
• Paid vacation time.
• Wellness programs and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).

Position Summary:

The Process Engineer at the Alsip Mini Mill will be responsible for optimizing production processes, improving product quality, enhancing operational efficiency, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives across the mill. This role plays a key part in ensuring stable, safe, and cost-effective operation of pulping, stock preparation, paper machine, and utility systems. The Process Engineer collaborates closely with operations, maintenance, environmental, and quality teams to meet mill performance targets.

The annualized good faith base salary range for this position is $145,000 - $165,000. The actual salary rate offered to candidates within that range will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, years of relevant experience, education, applicable certifications, and the candidate’s overall qualifications for the position as assessed by the Company.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the United States. This role is not eligible for employer-sponsored work authorization now or in the future.

Key Responsibilities

Process Optimization

• Monitor and analyze production data to identify process bottlenecks, variability, and improvement opportunities.
• Optimize pulping, refining, screening, and paper machine operations to improve runnability, yield, and product quality.
• Develop and implement process control strategies, SOPs, and best practices.
• Support machine trials, chemical program evaluations, and grade development initiatives.

Continuous Improvement & Root Cause Analysis

• Lead CI projects focused on reducing waste, energy usage, downtime, and cost.
• Conduct root cause analyses for quality issues, process upsets, and equipment failures.
• Utilize Lean, Six Sigma, or other structured problem-solving methods to drive improvements.

Data & Performance Monitoring

• Maintain process models, dashboards, KPIs, and historical data systems.
• Analyze trends in basis weight, moisture, strength properties, fiber yield, water usage, and chemical consumption.
• Provide daily / weekly performance reporting to operations leadership.

Technical Support

• Provide technical support to production crews to ensure optimal daily operation.
• Support commissioning, start-ups, and shutdowns for new or upgraded equipment.
• Work with chemical and equipment vendors to evaluate products, troubleshoot issues, and improve performance.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure processes meet product specifications and customer requirements.
• Collaborate with EHS teams to support safety programs, environmental compliance, and mill audits.
• Assist in maintaining ISO, safety, and quality standards.

Project Engineering

• Support capital projects from concept through implementation.
• Prepare technical scopes, evaluate vendor proposals, and assist with budgeting.
• Oversee installation, testing, and integration of equipment into mill operations.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Paper Science, Manufacturing, or a related field.
• 2-5 years of experience in manufacturing, pulp & paper, or continuous process industry preferred.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data-driven decision-making skills.
• Experience with process instrumentation, DCS/PLC systems, and process modeling tools.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented mill environment.
• Strong communication skills to collaborate with internal teams.

Preferred

• Experience in recycled fiber pulping or paper machine operations.
• Knowledge of Lean/Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt a plus).
• Experience with advanced process control (APC), PI systems, or statistical process control (SPC).
• Strong MES or data visualization skills.

Working Conditions

• Industrial mill environment with exposure to noise, heat, humidity, and moving equipment.
• Occasional weekend or off-shift support for trials or critical process events.

EEOC: AMM is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.