Senior Process Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Join the Gaco team, a trusted name in building envelope solutions with a heritage dating back to 1955.

We're seeking a Senior Process Engineer who's ready to be part of a company committed to formulating everyday success for every customer through innovative, reliable products used to adhere, seal, and protect at every level of the building envelope.

ABOUT THE ROLE
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Process Project Engineer to both manage capital improvement projects and provide direct technical support to our manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer with a strong background in chemical process environments. In addition to managing the entire project lifecycle-from scope definition to commissioning - this role will be a key technical resource for the site, responsible for driving continuous improvement by analyzing workflows, identifying bottlenecks, and optimizing existing processes to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency. This position requires a unique blend of technical engineering acumen, project management discipline, and a practical, plant-floor perspective. 

WHAT YOU'LL ACCOMPLISH

Project Lifecycle Management:

• Lead capital projects from initial concept and feasibility studies through design, procurement, installation, commissioning, and final documentation.
• Develop detailed project scopes, schedules, and cost estimates ($).
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, providing regular status updates to stakeholders.

Process Optimization & Plant Support:

• Analyze production data, workflows, and processes to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement.
• Develop and implement data-driven solutions to improve product quality, increase operational efficiency, and enhance process safety.
• Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives and root cause analysis investigations for production and safety-related issues.
• Provide daily technical support to Operations and Maintenance teams to troubleshoot process upsets and ensure stable, reliable production.

Technical Design & Equipment Specification:

• Read, interpret, and modify Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
• Perform engineering calculations to properly size and specify process equipment, including pumps, piping, vessels, valves, and instrumentation.
• Research and identify the best available equipment and technology for specific applications.
• Ensure all designs comply with internal standards and relevant industry codes (e.g., ASME, API).

Procurement & Vendor Management:

• Develop comprehensive Request for Quotation (RFQ) packages for equipment and services.
• Perform technical and commercial bid analyses to select suppliers and contractors.
• Visit supplier sites to conduct equipment trials and Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs).
• Perform Site Acceptance Tests (SATs) when equipment has arrived onsite.

Construction & Contractor Management:

• Vet, select, and manage on-site contractors for all installation and construction activities.
• Lead safety orientations and ensure all on-site work is performed in strict adherence to company safety protocols (e.g., Lockout/Tagout, hot work permits).
• Ensure that all local, state, and federal rules and regulations are followed during construction (building permits, modification of PSM or RMP, etc.).
• Provide direct on-site supervision to ensure equipment is installed and erected according to engineering specifications and best practices.
• Commission equipment and work directly with other functions such as operations, maintenance, and quality to ensure that equipment meets design standards.
• Work in cross-functional teams to create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), follow Management of Change (MOC) protocol, and provide/create equipment documentation where necessary.

Maintenance & Reliability Integration:

• Apply a "Design for Maintainability" mindset to all projects, ensuring safe and efficient access for future maintenance and repairs.
• Collaborate with the Maintenance and Reliability teams to identify critical spare parts, develop preventative maintenance plans, and ensure a smooth handover of project documentation.
• Demonstrate a commitment to communicating, improving and adhering to health, safety and environmental policies in all work environments and areas.
• Promote a culture of safety and exhibit these behaviors.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering (Required)
• Master of Science in Chemical Engineering (Preferred)

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-7 years of combined project and process engineering experience in a chemical manufacturing environment.
• Proven track record of managing "cradle-to-grave" capital projects from $50K to $5M+.
• Demonstrated experience in process optimization, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement in a manufacturing setting.
• Direct, hands-on experience with the specification, installation, and startup of process equipment (pumps, piping, tanks, control systems).
• Demonstrated experience in managing and directing contractors and skilled trades.
• Experience in a maintenance or reliability role is a strong plus.
• Experience working in a PSM and RMP regulated environment.

Skills & Abilities:

• High proficiency in reading and creating P&IDs, Electrical Schematics, Construction Plans, and other technical drawings.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach to decision- making.
• Knowledge of continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) and root cause analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of process control fundamentals (DCS/PLC).
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with plant operators, maintenance technicians, and senior management.
• A robust safety mindset and knowledge of OSHA and industry safety standards.
• Proficiency with MS Project or similar project scheduling software.
• Experience with AutoCAD or other CAD software is desirable.

Additional Requirements:

• Successful candidates must adhere to all safety protocols and proper use of Amrize approved Personal Protection Equipment ("PPE"), including but not limited to respirators.
• Employees that are required to wear respirators must be clean shaven where the respirator seal meets the face in order to pass the qualitative and quantitative fit tests.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Competitive Compensation -  the starting salary range for this position is $135,000-$155,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Retirement Savings
• Medical, Dental, Disability and Life Insurance Coverage
• Holistic Health & Well-Being Programs
• Health Savings Accounts (HSA) & Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for
• Health and Dependent Care
• Vision and other Voluntary Benefits and Discounts
• Paid Time Off and Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave (Maternity and Paternity)
• Educational Assistance Program

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Amrize is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.