Process Engineer / Future Plant Manager

Location: Durham
Job Type: Full time, Permanent

The Role

An established engineering-manufacturing business supplying high performance materials is seeking an experienced Process Engineer. This role is offered with a clearly defined pathway into management and offers autonomy in the meantime.

The successful candidate will play a key role in process optimisation, plant reliability, safety systems and a major site improvement programme.

Key Responsibilities

* Support and optimise batch processes

* Develop understanding of raw material behaviour, blending parameters and product performance

* Ensure batch consistency and compliance with relevant industry standards

* Investigate process deviations, downtime and quality issues using root cause analysis

* Improve OEE, throughput, yield and plant reliability

* Develop SOPs, operating windows and process controls

* Work across mechanical, electrical and control systems with specialist support where required

* Improve engineering standards and asset lifecycle planning

* Manage permit to work systems

* Oversee electrical isolation and lock out tag out procedures

* Support ongoing plant upgrade and improvement programmes

* Work with contractors and suppliers on modifications and installations

* Assist with equipment specification, FAT, SAT and commissioning

* Contribute to future automation and capability investment plans

Ideal Candidate

* Several years experience within a process engineering environment

* Strong continuous improvement and problem solving capability

* Familiar with permit to work systems, electrical isolation and confined space controls

* Strong understanding of health, safety and compliance

Desirable

* Degree or HNC HND in a relevant engineering or materials discipline

* Experience supporting capital projects or plant upgrades

* Knowledge of control systems or PLC environments

* Previous supervisory or leadership exposure

Why Apply

* Clear progression into a future management role

* High impact role within a major site improvement programme

* Opportunity to shape the long term operational future

* Supportive leadership and long term career development

* Competitive salary and permanent employment