Focus Improvement Engineer – Process Engineer

SUMMARY: The Focused Improvement Engineer is critical to achieving World Class performance, which means zero defects, zero waste and zero losses. She/he will apply extensively the full range of Focused Improvement methods and tools to counter losses identified in the areas of Safety, Quality, Cost Deployment, Manufacturing, Customer Service and Logistics. The Cost Deployment pillar will be populated with data built up through application of the Managing Manufacturing Performance (MMP) Code, which is key to ensuring focus on key losses.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

(NOTE:  The duties listed below are normal for this job. Incumbents are cross-trained and may perform any combination of the following duties/responsibilities.  These duties are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.)

Process Engineers are required in our sites to support Manufacturing teams by focusing on technical elimination of losses and waste on the production line including, but not limited to• Minor stoppage reduction • Change over time reduction • Elimination of RPM waste• Support of digital related projects • Other NVAA reduction activities Confidential Process engineers are involved in continuous improvements from the engineer viewpoint, responsible to solve chronical problems, reduce NVAA, develop standards, and drive productivity while granting quality and safety. Process engineers also lead/co-ordinate the deployment of digital activities in the factories. The focus will be on enabling our manufacturing sites to deploy appropriate, standardized technologies and ensure consistency in deployment and associated benefit delivery.

As the Process Engineer, you will play a key role in delivering the factory results through the Focused Improvement methodology. Working directly with Production team members, site Technical Engineering, and all WCM Pillars to act as the technical advisor and trainer providing coaching in phenomena identification, root cause analysis and the establishment of countermeasures.

The Focused Improvement Engineer is responsible for the validation of all manufacturing improvements and the establishment of revised basic conditions on the line. A core deliverable is to eliminate losses and waste and increase the stability and capability of the line.

You will achieve this by mastering and becoming subject matter expert in the theoretical engineering knowledge, specific category technology knowledge like mixing, freezing, dosing, enrobing and packing, and WCM methodology through study and practical application, coaching the factory teams as they progress through the program, and driving change.

You will leverage your training and technical knowledge to eliminate losses, waste, and increase the production output across multiple work centers or production lines. You will be guided on loss prioritization and elimination by working closely with Cost Deployment, Quality, and Safety Pillar leads. You will also play a key role in moving away from the reactive approach to losses towards a proactive approach.

Your line manager will be the Manufacturing Excellence Manager for the site who reports to the Factory Director.

Key Deliverables:

• Eliminate Waste and Loss according to the UMS prioritization process using BPCD, FI, AM, PM, Q, PD pillar tools and methodologies;

• Create Technical Standards to ensure process stability on the line;

• Run to Standard (R2S) implementation: (Data collection and analysis, Prioritization of losses, Problem solving, SMED, AM activities definition and machine settings (Centerlines or Process parameters definition);

• Train line crews on technical standards and restoration of basic conditions (Stability sustainability);

• Identify and extend good practice to other lines;

• Provide inputs of EEM pillar – MP data;

• Factory OR and DBNR improvement;

• NVAA reduction;

• Application and accuracy of MMP Code data.

Key Skills and Competencies

• Business acumen and financial tools, understanding of the Master plan, factory priorities and how manufacturing performance of the site correlates with its finance KPIs and BGs targets achievement;

• Manufacturing & Packaging technology. Rely on basic but consistent understanding of the manufacturing technologies of the Category to drive relevant process Improvement;

• Engineering. Apply technical engineering skills (Mechanical, Chemical, Electrical, Automation, others) to do practical problem solving;

• Technical drawings, drawing programs, 3d modelling, etc;

• Analytical capability, basics of statistics, basics of coding to collect and analyse complex data to penetrate problems’ phenomena and understand root causes;

• Process Design and manpower optimization, including NVAA reduction technics. Leverage technical knowledge and a systems approach to ensure factory lines and processes are optimally resourced (e.g. manpower ratios are efficient and sustainable).

• UMS. Apply the full set of UMS methods and tools to identify root causes, define countermeasures and validate their effectiveness, mastery of FI, AM, PM, Qand PD methods and tools. Establish standards to support line operators sustain new basic conditions.

• Project management

Bias for Action. By providing consistent and near real time information, decisions can be taken quickly which leverage our resources.

Talent Catalyst. Our vision is to move to semi-autonomous teams, and we require process engineer’s with a passion for achieving results through great teamwork, an ability to teach new tools and methodologies and ensuring that you and your colleagues are fully aligned, and drawing on one another’s strengths.

Accountability & Responsibility. Taking responsibility for building your team’s performance and sharing your best interventions to help support other lines’ in their improvements.

Growth Mindset. By building world class factories we will become more competitive in the marketplace and set the standards to which others aspire.

Consumer Love. Building world class factories will eliminate losses and ensure that we do not pass on the cost of inefficiencies to our customers and consumers.

Qualification Requirements:

BA/BS degree in Engineering, preferably Mechanical, Food, Chemical, Industrial, or Mechatronic Engineering with 2+ years of relevant experience Must demonstrate a flair for improvement engineering, digital enhancements, and technical knowledge with a passion for learning. Attention to detail, bias for action, accountability, written and verbal communication skills, data collection and analysis, problem solving, decision-making, teamwork, and judgement. Related experience in FI and kaizen activity or continuous improvement program (WCM, TPM, 6-sigma, Lean, etc) implementation in manufacturing environment a plus.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS OR STANDARDS REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

LANGUAGE SKILLS:

Requires the ability to read and comprehend a variety of simple informational documentation, directions, instructions, methods and procedures, short correspondence, and memos. Requires the ability to write simple reports and correspondence with proper format, punctuation, spelling and grammar.  Requires the ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group setting to team members, customers, and other employees of the organization, using correct English and a well-modulated voice.

NUMERICAL APTITUDE:

Requires the ability to add and subtract totals, multiply and divide in all units of measure (English and Metric), using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.  Must be able to determine percentages and determine time and weight.  Must be able to use an electronic calculator.

FORM/SPATIAL APTITUDE:

Requires the ability to inspect items for proper length, width, textures, odor, taste, color, and shape.

REASONING ABILITY:

Requires the ability to apply common-sense understanding to carry out detailed written or oral instructions.  Must be able to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.

MANUAL DEXTERITY:

Requires the ability to handle a variety of items, equipment, control knobs, switches, etc. Must have the ability to use one hand for twisting or turning motion while coordinating other hand with different activities. There are occasional requirements to use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools and controls and reach with hands and arms. Must have average levels of eye/hand/foot coordination.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Must be physically able to climb on ladders and portable stairways. Must be physically able to use wrenches and other tools in performing minor maintenance functions. Constant standing and/or walking on concrete floors are required. Must be able to use body members to work, move, lift, slide, push or carry heavy objects or materials.  Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds. Physical demand requirements are at levels of those for active work. 

PHYSICAL COMMUNICATION:

Must have the ability to talk (expressing and/or exchanging ideas by means of spoken words) and/or hear (perceiving sounds of nature by ear.)  Specific visual abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision and color vision.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed throughout the facility.  Potential hazards include proximity of moving machinery, chemical exposure, noise, or heavy lifting.  The position may require an individual to stand, stoop, move equipment; bend, reach, or lift for prolonged periods of time.  PPE includes safety glasses, hearing protection and sanitary footwear.

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Unilever is an organization committed to diversity and inclusion to drive our business results and create a better future every day for our diverse employees, global consumers, partners, and communities. We believe a diverse workforce allows us to match our growth ambitions and drive inclusion across the business. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal law and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. 

For more information about your Federal rights, please see Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal and Pay Transparency Non discrimination Provision.

Employment is subject to verification of pre-screening tests, which may include drug screening, background check, credit check and DMV check.

If you are an individual with a disability in need of assistance at any time during our recruitment process, please contact us at NA.Accommodations@unilever.com. Please note: This email is reserved for individuals with disabilities in need of assistance and is not a means of inquiry about positions or application statuses. The Protected Veterans or Individuals with Disabilities AAP narratives are available for inspection by any employee or applicant for employment Monday through Friday during normal business hours at establishment.