Position Overview: Reporting to the Vice President, the Engineering Leader for Asphalt Production & Application will spearhead projects focused on process improvements, operational excellence, and innovation in asphalt production. This strategic role requires an experienced chemical engineer with a strong leadership background and a hands-on approach to problem-solving. The ideal candidate will drive the execution of high-level projects across multiple facilities, ensuring that processes align with industry best practices while fostering continuous improvement. The role demands a visionary leader who can guide teams, influence operational outcomes, and optimize the overall performance of asphalt production and application processes.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage projects related to asphalt material production and application, ensuring successful completion from inception to delivery.
- Develop and coordinate project timelines, estimates, budgets, and resource allocation to meet operational goals and deadlines.
- Identify opportunities for process improvements to enhance the efficiency, safety, and quality of asphalt production and application operations.
- Design and oversee the development of new processes and facilities, including greenfield and brownfield projects.
- Provide technical leadership to team members, ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices.
- Oversee the development, maintenance, and updating of technical documentation, engineering information, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Conduct root cause analysis for production issues, implementing corrective actions and driving process enhancements.
- Collaborate with other departments to ensure alignment of engineering initiatives with company goals.
- Work with contractors, suppliers, and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
- Stay up-to-date with trends and advancements in asphalt production, chemical engineering, and relevant technologies.
- Travel to multiple facilities as required (30-50% business travel), with flexible scheduling based on project needs.
Required Qualifications:
- Education: Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field. An advanced degree (Master’s or MBA) is preferred.
- Experience:
- Minimum of 10 years in engineering, with at least 5 years in leadership roles.
- Proven experience in chemical manufacturing or asphalt production processes.
- Familiarity with industry standards (OSHA, NFPA, ANSI, APA) is a plus.
- Large-scale asphalt or chemical plant experience.
- Strong project management experience, including managing multiple projects concurrently.
- Experience in process engineering, troubleshooting, and process improvement.
Technical Skills:
- Expertise in process engineering and chemical engineering calculations, including heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and process optimization.
- Proficiency in project management, including the design, execution, and delivery of large-scale projects.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a solid understanding of troubleshooting techniques.
- Familiarity with process control systems and mechanical/electrical systems.
- Intermediate to advanced proficiency in data analysis tools (Excel, AutoCAD).
Preferred Qualifications:
- PE (Principal Practice Engineer) license.
- Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certification.
- Experience with process controls and equipment such as heat exchangers, tanks, pumps, and distillation columns.
- Knowledge of thermodynamics and fluid dynamics.
- Experience in an engineering design firm is highly desirable.
Leadership and Management Skills:
- Ability to lead and mentor engineering teams, fostering both technical and soft skill development.
- Strong performance management skills, with a focus on setting clear expectations and holding team members accountable.
- Commitment to safety, continuous improvement, and alignment with the company’s vision and values.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.
Ideal Candidate Profile:
- Education: Degree in Chemical Engineering or Process Engineering; PE license is a plus.
- Experience: Solid background in process engineering, project engineering, and leadership roles in manufacturing environments, preferably in the chemical or asphalt industries.
- Traits and Skills:
- High emotional intelligence with the ability to lead teams effectively.
- Strong commitment to long-term career growth and stability (5-7 years in a role).
- Experience with process improvement methodologies (Lean/Six Sigma) is advantageous.
- Proactive in managing engineering projects from design through to execution, ensuring results are delivered with minimal supervision.
Additional Skills:
- Familiarity with Lean/Six Sigma methodologies and process improvement techniques.
- Strong problem-solving ability, especially related to complex process challenges.
If you're an innovative leader with a proven track record in process optimization and operational excellence, we encourage you to apply and join a team that values continuous improvement and technical excellence.