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Process Optimization Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer is a critical operational role responsible for optimizing Vanguard Soap's manufacturing processes, equipment reliability, and plant performance. This role operates as ...

Process Engineer

Elizabethton, TN ยท On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Experience with process optimization, automation, and troubleshooting * Ability to analyze data and turn insights into action * Experience with ERP systems and intermediate Excel skills * CAD and 3D ...

POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer is a critical operational role responsible for optimizing Vanguard Soap's manufacturing processes, equipment reliability, and plant performance. This role operates as ...

Process Engineer

Elizabethton, TN ยท On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Experience with process optimization, automation, and troubleshooting * Ability to analyze data and turn insights into action * Experience with ERP systems and intermediate Excel skills * CAD and 3D ...

Provide process and equipment design, process optimization, and troubleshooting * Conduct process development experiments to scale in a laboratory * Manage cost and time constraints * Ensure ...

Responsible for providing process optimization and engineering support for the mill which will include but not limited to, compliance process coordination, lean projects, quality and product safety ...

Process Optimization: Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot aluminum die casting processes to improve product quality, yield, and cycle time. * Tooling and Equipment Maintenance: Collaborate with ...

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Process Optimization information

See Tennessee salary details

$22

$28

$33

How much do process optimization jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for process optimization in Tennessee is $28.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.42 and $33.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does process optimization do?

Process optimization involves analyzing and improving business processes to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance quality. Process optimization professionals use tools like data analysis and workflow redesign to streamline operations and achieve better performance outcomes.

What is the job description of process optimization?

Process optimization involves analyzing and improving business processes to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance quality. Professionals in this role use tools like data analysis, workflow modeling, and lean or Six Sigma methodologies to identify areas for improvement and implement solutions. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of process management are essential for success in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Process Optimization position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Process Optimization, you need strong analytical skills, a background in process engineering or industrial engineering, and often a relevant degree in engineering, business, or operations management. Familiarity with process mapping software, Lean Six Sigma methodologies, and data analysis tools such as Excel, Minitab, or Tableau is commonly required, with certifications like Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt being advantageous. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and a collaborative mindset help candidates stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for identifying inefficiencies, facilitating improvements, and driving measurable results across diverse business operations.

What is a Process Optimization job?

A Process Optimization job focuses on analyzing, improving, and streamlining workflows to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall performance. Professionals in this role use data analysis, automation, and best practices to identify bottlenecks and implement solutions. They often collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement and ensure sustainable operational success. Depending on the industry, this role may involve Lean, Six Sigma, or other methodologies to optimize business processes.

Is process improvement a good career path?

Process improvement is a viable career path that involves analyzing and optimizing workflows to increase efficiency and reduce costs. Roles often require skills in data analysis, project management, and familiarity with tools like Lean or Six Sigma certifications. It offers opportunities across various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and finance, with potential for advancement into management positions.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in Process Optimization?

A typical day for a Process Optimization professional involves analyzing current workflows, identifying areas for improvement, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement solutions. You may spend time mapping out processes, conducting data analysis, and facilitating meetings or workshops to gather input and drive change. The role often requires balancing hands-on problem solving with documentation and reporting progress to stakeholders. Close collaboration with departments such as production, quality assurance, and IT is common to ensure sustainable improvements. These varied responsibilities keep the work dynamic and provide opportunities for ongoing learning and impact.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

In process optimization roles, high-paying positions such as industrial or manufacturing managers can earn around $4,000 weekly, especially with experience and specialized skills. Other well-paying jobs without a degree include sales managers, certain skilled trades, and technical roles that value experience and certifications over formal education.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Optimization jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Process Optimization jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Process Optimization jobs in Tennessee? For Process Optimization jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Process Optimization jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Process Optimization job openings:
Infographic showing various Process Optimization job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,692 per year, or $28.2 per hour.
Process Engineer

Process Engineer

Vanguard Soap

Memphis, TN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
The Engineer is a critical operational role responsible for optimizing Vanguard Soap's manufacturing processes, equipment reliability, and plant performance. This role operates as both a hands-on technical expert and continuous improvement driver, with a strong presence on the production floor.
This individual will own and improve core manufacturing systems - including reaction vessels, spray drying towers, boilers, pumps, and wastewater systems - while ensuring safe, efficient, and scalable operations. The Engineer will play a central role in troubleshooting downtime, improving process capability, and building standardized, repeatable manufacturing processes. This role requires a proactive, assertive leader who can operate both strategically and tactically, working side-by-side with maintenance, production, and leadership team members.
The Vanguard manufacturing campus is a 14-acre site producing 40-50 million pounds annually with 100+ employees, requiring disciplined engineering, strong operational partnership, and a continuous improvement mindset.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Engineering Leadership & Plant Partnership
  • Serve as a key partner to Operations, Maintenance, and Quality to drive plant performance
  • Maintain a strong, visible presence on the production floor
  • Lead and support maintenance technicians and operators in resolving equipment and process issues
  • Act as a first responder to critical downtime events, driving rapid root cause identification and resolution

Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement
  • Identify, prioritize, and lead continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing processes
  • Analyze production data to improve yield, throughput, and cost efficiency
  • Implement Lean, Six Sigma, and other process improvement methodologies
  • Standardize best practices across lines, shifts, and product types

Equipment Reliability & Maintenance Engineering
  • Improve reliability and performance of key plant systems:
    • Reaction vessels
    • Spray drying towers
    • Boilers and utilities
    • Pumps and fluid systems
    • Wastewater treatment systems
  • Partner with Maintenance to develop preventive and predictive maintenance strategies
  • Support capital projects, equipment upgrades, and new installations

Process Documentation & Standardization
  • Develop, maintain, and validate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, process flow documentation
  • Ensure processes are repeatable, scalable, and audit-ready
  • Train plant personnel on updated procedures and best practices

Root Cause Problem Solving
  • Lead structured root cause analysis for equipment failures, process deviations, quality issues
  • Implement sustainable corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)
  • Track and report on improvement effectiveness

Capital Projects & Engineering Execution
  • Support plant capital planning and execution
  • Lead or contribute to equipment selection and design, installation and commissioning, process validation, and startup
  • Ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and meet operational requirements

Safety, Compliance & Environmental Stewardship
  • Ensure all engineering activities align with safety standards and regulatory requirements
  • Support safe operation of all manufacturing and utility systems
  • Partner on environmental initiatives, including wastewater and emissions management

Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Partner with: Quality on process capability and product consistency, Supply Chain on material flow and constraints, R&D on product trials and scale-up
  • Serve as a technical bridge between plant operations and leadership

KEY CAPABILITIES
  • Hands-on, plant-first engineering mindset
  • Strong mechanical and process engineering acumen
  • Proactive, assertive, high-accountability leadership style
  • Ability to troubleshoot complex systems under pressure
  • Data-driven decision-making with practical execution focus
  • Strong cross-functional collaboration and influence
  • Continuous improvement orientation (Lean / Six Sigma mindset)

QUALIFICATIONS
  • 3-7+ years of engineering experience in manufacturing (CPG, chemical, or process manufacturing preferred)
  • Experience working in a plant environment with direct production interaction
  • Proven success improving equipment reliability and process performance
  • Experience with process documentation, SOPs, and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis skills

EDUCATION
  • Bachelor's degree required. Preferred majors: Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Industrial Engineering