Chemical/Industrial Lead Engineer
Location: Rockford, TN
Department: Engineering
Reports To: CEO / CFOO
Position Summary
We are seeking an Engineer with 8- 10 years of experience in chemical manufacturing to join our team. This role will focus on optimizing chemical processing and packaging operations, advancing safety standards, and driving efficiency across the plant. The ideal candidate has a proven track record of leadership, combining technical engineering skills with the ability to manage people, processes, and projects effectively. Nisus is an employee-owned company that values collaboration, dedication, and shared success. Our employees play an important role in shaping the future of the organization while enjoying a supportive and team-oriented work environment.
Key Responsibilities
Process Optimization & Engineering
- Develop, implement, and monitor chemical process improvements to maximize efficiency, yield, and quality.
- Analyze production data to identify trends, bottlenecks, and areas for cost savings.
- Design, scale-up, and validate chemical processes to meet operational and environmental standards.
- Collaborate with R&D and production teams to introduce new technologies and methodologies.
Safety, Quality, and Compliance
- Ensure all chemical manufacturing operations comply with OSHA, EPA, and other relevant regulations.
- Champion process safety management (PSM) initiatives and lead hazard and operability studies (HAZOP).
- Work with team to develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Lead root-cause analysis and corrective actions for incidents, non-conformances, and equipment failures.
Leadership & Management
- Supervise and mentor a team of engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of accountability and continual improvement.
- Coordinate cross-functional teams to deliver on production goals, project timelines, and budget requirements.
- Provide technical guidance and training to staff to ensure best practices in chemical processing.
- Develop succession planning and professional development initiatives within the engineering function.
Project & Resource Management
- Lead capital projects for process upgrades, plant expansions, and new equipment installations.
- Manage budgets, schedules, and vendor relationships for engineering projects.
- Prepare reports and present progress updates to senior leadership.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, or Industrial preferred).
- Experience: 8+ years in chemical/mechanical manufacturing, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
- Strong knowledge of process safety management, regulatory compliance, and chemical plant operations.
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex engineering projects.
- Proficient in AutoCAD
- Familiar with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar continuous improvement frameworks.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
Competencies
- Leadership & People Management – Ability to inspire, mentor, and hold teams accountable.
- Technical Expertise – Deep understanding of chemical processes, equipment, and manufacturing principles.
- Analytical Thinking – Skilled in root-cause analysis and data-driven decision-making.
- Safety Mindset – Commitment to workplace safety and regulatory compliance.
- Project Management – Strong organizational and planning skills, able to manage multiple priorities.
Nice-to-have/Desired Skills
- PE Certification
- Environmental regulation or permit experience
- Familiarity with Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems
Pay: $80,000.00 - $170,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Relocation assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
