Research And Development Process Engineer Jobs in Atlanta, GA

About Zep Inc.

Zep Inc. is a leading manufacturer of cleaning solutions for businesses and consumers with operations across the U.S, Canada, and Europe. Our purpose is to make the planet cleaner, safer, and more productive. To fulfill our purpose, we focus on understanding and solving cleaning needs for consumers, as well as business customers across a variety of segments including transportation, industrial, institutional, and food & beverage. We also have a strong presence in the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) segment, where we develop products to help consumers and businesses maintain a clean and safe environment. Our products can be found online and at retail shelves at outlets like Home Depot, Amazon, Lowe's, Ace Hardware, Grainger, HD Supply, Walmart, and many others. We market our products under well recognized and established brand names, such as Zep, Enforcer, Misty, TimeMist, TimeWick, and Country Vet. Zep was founded in 1937 and is headquartered in Atlanta, GA. In 2021, Zep became the official cleaning partner of Atlanta United FC.

Job Description:

The Process Engineer will be responsible for the design, implementation, and optimization of manufacturing processes. The ideal candidate will apply engineering principles to develop processes that maximize productivity, quality, and safety while minimizing costs and environmental impact.

Process Design & Development:

• Design and develop new manufacturing processes or improve existing ones.
• Analyze process flow, material handling, and systems to optimize efficiency and throughput.
• Conduct feasibility studies, cost analysis, and risk assessments for new processes or equipment.

Process Optimization:

• Monitor, analyze, and optimize processes to ensure optimal production rates, minimal downtime, and efficient use of resources.
• Identify process inefficiencies and implement corrective actions.
• Work with cross-functional teams to test and implement changes to processes.

Troubleshooting & Problem Solving:

• Investigate issues in the production line, identify root causes, and recommend solutions.
• Provide technical support for troubleshooting and resolving any process-related issues.
• Participate in root-cause analysis and provide ongoing support to resolve production bottlenecks.

Data Analysis & Reporting:

• Collect and analyze production data to assess process performance and determine areas for improvement.
• Prepare regular reports detailing process improvements, performance metrics, and cost savings.
• Utilize data-driven tools like Six Sigma, Lean, or SPC (Statistical Process Control) to drive process improvements.

Safety & Compliance:

• Ensure that all processes meet safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Implement safety protocols and ensure a safe working environment.
• Collaborate with the safety team to conduct risk assessments and ensure compliance with company and industry standards.

Collaboration & Teamwork:

• Work closely with other departments (e.g., quality assurance, production, R&D) to align processes with company goals.
• Train and mentor production staff on new processes and best practices.
• Collaborate with maintenance teams to ensure proper equipment operation and maintenance.

Project Management:

• Lead and manage process improvement projects from concept to implementation.
• Develop and manage timelines, budgets, and project deliverables.
• Ensure projects meet objectives, timelines, and cost constraints.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience:
  • 2-5 years of experience in process engineering, preferably in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
  • Experience with process optimization, continuous improvement initiatives, and troubleshooting is essential.
• Skills & Competencies:
  • Strong knowledge of process design and control systems.
  • Familiarity with process improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, etc.).
  • Proficient in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, MATLAB, AutoCAD).
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Certifications:
  • Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification (optional but beneficial).
  • Professional Engineering (PE) license (optional but beneficial).

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work in both office and industrial settings.
• Ability to stand, walk, and move around a plant or production facility.
• Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs. may be required.

Additional Information:

• Some travel may be required to different plant sites or project locations.
• Flexibility in working hours may be needed to meet project deadlines.

Our Values

At Zep, we have developed a set of values focused on bringing even greater cohesion to our workplace. As part of this plan, we introduced a values framework called S.P.E.E.D. to align with our purpose of making the planet cleaner, safer, and more productive.

• Stewardship: We continuously improve the safety of our people and products, and we protect the planet by innovating solutions to reduce our environmental impact.

• Passion for Problem Solving: We listen to our customers and actively work to find solutions for unique situations. We think creatively to innovate and seize opportunities that will drive growth and make all our customers' and consumers' lives better.

• Empowerment: We encourage and lead our people to be accountable by equipping them to make decisions and own the outcome

• Expertise: We create innovative solutions and partnerships that are relevant to service our communities and customers.

• Doing the Right Thing: We expect our people to understand ethical boundaries and be inclusive of other backgrounds, ideas, and perspectives. Demonstrating honesty, respect and integrity in all actions is always expected.

Zep Inc. is an organization that is committed to diversity within its workforce and encourages all interested candidates, including women, minorities, & former military personnel to apply. It is the policy of Zep Inc. that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability or sexual orientation.

As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, Zep Inc. provides full employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, ancestry, or veteran status or any other distinction outlined in all applicable federal, state, and local laws.