Role Overview for Process Engineering Manager – Houston, TX
JRG Partners, a premier executive search and recruitment firm, is thrilled to partner with a leading innovator in the petrochemical sector to identify a highly accomplished and visionary Process Engineering Manager. This critical leadership position is based in the vibrant industrial hub of Houston, Texas, a global center for energy and chemical processing. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving operational excellence, optimizing complex processes, and leading a dynamic team of process engineers dedicated to innovation, efficiency, and safety.
As the Process Engineering Manager, you will be at the forefront of strategic initiatives, responsible for the design, development, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes. Your expertise will directly impact production efficiency, product quality, cost reduction, and environmental compliance. This is more than just a management role; it is an opportunity to shape the future of our client’s operations, foster a culture of technical excellence, and contribute significantly to the company’s growth and competitive advantage in a fast-evolving market.
We are seeking a leader who can inspire, mentor, and empower their team while maintaining a keen focus on delivering tangible results and adhering to the highest industry standards. The ideal candidate will possess a blend of deep technical knowledge, exceptional leadership capabilities, and a proven track record of successful project execution in a demanding industrial environment. This role offers a unique platform to leverage your extensive experience in process engineering to solve complex challenges and implement cutting-edge solutions.
Key Responsibilities of Process Engineering Manager – Houston, TX
The Process Engineering Manager will oversee a wide array of critical functions, ensuring the optimal performance and continuous improvement of all process engineering activities. Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
Strategic Leadership & Team Management
Lead, mentor, and develop a team of highly skilled process engineers. Foster a collaborative and high-performance work environment, providing technical guidance, performance feedback, and career development opportunities. Establish departmental goals and objectives aligned with overall company strategy. Drive a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement within the team.
Process Optimization & Improvement
Identify, analyze, and implement opportunities for process optimization to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, improve product quality, and minimize environmental impact. Utilize advanced process simulation tools, data analytics, and lean manufacturing principles to drive these improvements. Champion initiatives for energy efficiency, waste reduction, and yield maximization.
Process Design & Development
Oversee the design and development of new processes and modifications to existing ones, from conceptualization through detailed engineering. This includes developing Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), material and energy balances, and equipment specifications. Ensure designs comply with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and internal safety protocols.
Project Management & Execution
Manage multiple process engineering projects concurrently, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and meet all technical specifications. This involves scope definition, resource allocation, risk assessment, stakeholder communication, and post-implementation review. Collaborate closely with project managers, operations, and maintenance teams.
Technical Support & Troubleshooting
Provide expert technical support to operations for troubleshooting process upsets, identifying root causes, and implementing effective corrective actions. Act as a primary technical resource for complex operational challenges, leveraging deep theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
Safety, Health, and Environmental (SHE) Compliance
Ensure all process engineering activities and designs adhere strictly to company SHE policies, industry regulations (e.g., OSHA, EPA), and best practices. Participate in HAZOP studies, LOPA analyses, and other safety reviews to identify and mitigate potential hazards. Promote a proactive safety culture within the engineering team and across the plant.
Technology Evaluation & Implementation
Stay abreast of emerging process technologies, equipment, and methodologies. Evaluate their potential application within the company’s operations and lead the implementation of approved new technologies to enhance competitiveness and operational capabilities. This includes digital transformation initiatives and advanced process control strategies.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work effectively with other departments, including Operations, Maintenance, R&D, Quality Assurance, and Commercial teams, to ensure seamless project execution and operational synergy. Represent the process engineering department in cross-functional meetings and strategic planning sessions.
Documentation & Reporting
Maintain comprehensive and accurate documentation of all process designs, modifications, calculations, and performance data. Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and analyses for senior management and stakeholders.
Budget Management
Develop and manage the departmental budget, ensuring efficient utilization of resources and cost-effective project execution. Identify opportunities for cost savings through process improvements and optimized resource allocation.
Requirements for the Process Engineering Manager – Houston, TX
To be successful in this challenging yet rewarding role, candidates should possess a robust combination of academic qualifications, extensive professional experience, and critical leadership competencies:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, or a closely related field from an accredited university is mandatory. A Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering is highly preferred and will be viewed favorably.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in process engineering within a heavy industrial environment, such as petrochemicals, refining, specialty chemicals, oil & gas, or pharmaceuticals. This must include at least 5-7 years in a leadership or managerial capacity, demonstrating proven ability to lead and develop engineering teams.
Technical Expertise
- Demonstrated proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II, Aspen Plus) for steady-state and dynamic simulations.
- Strong understanding of mass and energy balances, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, thermodynamics, and reaction kinetics.
- Extensive experience with PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment sizing (e.g., pumps, compressors, heat exchangers, distillation columns, reactors).
- Knowledge of advanced process control strategies (APC) and Distributed Control Systems (DCS) is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with relevant industry codes and standards (e.g., API, ASME, ISA).
- Experience with process safety management (PSM) elements, including HAZOP, LOPA, SIL analysis, and MOC procedures.
Leadership & Management Skills
- Proven ability to lead, motivate, and mentor a team of engineers, fostering an environment of continuous learning and professional growth.
- Exceptional project management skills, including planning, execution, monitoring, and closing projects effectively.
- Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, with a capacity to analyze complex technical issues and develop practical solutions.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, capable of articulating complex technical information to diverse audiences, from technical staff to senior executives.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and deliver results under pressure.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Certifications
Professional Engineer (PE) license is highly desirable. Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus.
Location
Must be willing to live and work in Houston, TX.
The role demands a deep understanding of industry best practices and continuous improvement methodologies, often guided by organizations like the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), which sets standards for professional excellence.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client understands that exceptional talent deserves exceptional rewards. As a Process Engineering Manager, you will be offered a comprehensive and competitive compensation package designed to attract and retain the best in the industry. This includes:
Competitive Salary
A highly attractive base salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Performance-Based Bonus
Opportunities for annual bonuses tied to individual performance and company profitability.
Comprehensive Health Benefits
Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family, with options for PPO and HMO coverage.
Retirement Savings Plan
A generous 401(k) plan with company matching contributions, helping you plan for a secure financial future.
Paid Time Off
Ample vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays to support work-life balance.
Professional Development
Significant investment in your continuous learning and career growth, including access to training programs, conferences, and opportunities for advanced certifications.
Relocation Assistance
For qualified candidates, comprehensive relocation support will be provided to facilitate a smooth transition to Houston, TX.
Life and Disability Insurance
Company-paid life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage.
Employee Wellness Programs
Initiatives focused on physical and mental well-being.
Dynamic Work Environment
A collaborative, innovative, and challenging work environment where your contributions are valued and recognized.
Career Advancement
Clear pathways for career progression within a growing and reputable organization.
Join a team that values innovation, safety, and professional excellence, and make a significant impact on critical industrial operations.
How to Apply
If you are a highly motivated and experienced Process Engineering Manager with a passion for driving operational excellence and leading high-performing teams, JRG Partners invites you to take the next step in your career. We are committed to connecting top-tier talent with industry-leading opportunities.
To apply for this exceptional position, please submit your detailed resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and relevant experience to JRG Partners. Emphasize your leadership achievements and specific contributions to process optimization projects. Our dedicated team of recruiters will review your application promptly and confidentially.
Visit our Engineering Recruitment Practice Area to learn more about how JRG Partners connects top talent with leading companies and to explore other exciting opportunities in the engineering sector. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you advance your professional journey.
