What Process Engineers Do – Basic Job Responsibilities

What Process Engineers Do – Basic Job Responsibilities

​​Now that the basics of process engineering have been discussed, it’s time to explore the roles and responsibilities of process engineers in more detail.

The role of the process engineer will differ in each company, so this is not a comprehensive list – just a general overview of the different areas of expertise in which an engineer will be expected to work. 

• Research and development – Many process engineers spend a large portion of their time on research and development; finding new technologies that can enhance current processes, and stimulate higher productivity in manufacturing.
• Simulating new processes with software – Because overhauling a process is a very expensive and risky task, new processes must be simulated using advanced software that mimics real-world conditions – ensuring that a potential process improvement is worth the risk.
• Equipment monitoring – Process engineers who are focused on operations often monitor equipment to ensure that it is functioning correctly, and running according to the standards they put in place when designing the process.
• Writing and editing documentation – Documentation for all existing processes must be written up and edited regularly, to ensure that all new hires and other personnel can understand the best practices and standards of each individual process.
• Risk assessments of current equipment/processes – Process engineers are responsible for assessing current processes and equipment to determine risk of malfunction/failure, employee/personnel injury, and much more.
• Continual evaluation of all processes and equipment – Most process engineers are expected to monitor and evaluate all extant processes and equipment, and develop more streamlined, economical processes – if at all possible.
• New equipment installation – Senior process engineers are often responsible for overseeing the installation of new equipment, and making sure that it is installed according to the process specifications.
• Troubleshooting production problems – Engineers often work with specialist process technicians to resolve issues with production and processes.
• Overseeing processes and operations personnel – Process engineers in management roles typically have at least some control over the oversight and management of operations personnel and floor workers.
• Data collection/interpretation – Process engineers analyse, collect, interpret, and compile data–based reports based on data from the manufacturing floor.
• Presentation of data findings – Senior process engineers may be responsible for presenting and explaining data findings to C-suite executive and other high-level business personnel.
• Budgeting responsibilities – Process engineers may either have input on the manufacturing budget, or be solely responsible for stay on-budget, in some cases.

Common Process Engineering Jobs & Careers

​As is clear from the varied responsibilities above, process engineering has many specialisations, focused on different areas of expertise. Here are just a few of the common process engineering jobs & careers.

• Process Engineer – Most engineers begin in a baseline process engineer position, where common responsibilities can vary widely depending on the company, industry, and particular role expected of them.
• Senior Process Engineer – Senior process engineers are typically either experts in a particular field of expertise – like chemical processing – or are more management-focused, leading teams of other process engineers in larger companies.
• Process Production Engineer – Process production engineers focused particularly on streamlining and improving existing manufacturing processes, in order to save companies money on manufacturing costs.
• Project & Process Engineer – Project & process engineers are usually responsible for the leadership of a particular group of engineers on a large-scale project, They combine the responsibilities of a project engineer/manager with the expertise of a process engineer.
• Lean Engineer – Lean engineers focus on using the well-known “Lean Manufacturing Methodology” to reduce waste and improve manufacturing processes.
• Process Automation Engineer – Process automation engineers often have a computer science background, as they are responsible for developing complex automation programs and systems for manufacturing processes.
• Continuous Improvement Engineer – Continuous improvement engineers focus primarily on improving existing manufacturing processes, with a focus on minimising waste and maximising production capabilities.