Plant Process Engineer

About the Company

CaptiveAire is the nation’s leading manufacturer of commercial kitchen ventilation systems, offering a complete solution of fans, heaters, ductwork, and HVAC equipment. With over 40 years of industry leadership, the company is known for innovative technologies, unmatched service, competitive pricing, and rapid lead times. Our mission is to provide the highest quality products and service at the lowest possible price, with a strong commitment to employee development through continuous education opportunities, including sponsorship for Professional Engineering licenses and weekly technical webinars.

Employees highlight the company’s culture of continuous learning, collaboration, and open communication. CaptiveAire fosters a decentralized, fast-moving environment where feedback is valued, and innovation is prioritized. The company focuses on end-user needs and actively shapes the HVAC industry landscape.

About the Role

A typical day in this role is dynamic and hands-on, with no two days being the same. Tasks may include:

• Training operators in proper process, tool usage, and maintenance
• Collaborating with engineering teams on process efficiency, quality, and safety improvements
• Developing new designs using 3D modeling software (e.g., SolidWorks) and coordinating fabrication with fab shops
• Working with contractors to coordinate utility needs (e.g., air and electrical drops) and overseeing equipment installation
• Coordinating preventative maintenance tasks and troubleshooting machinery
• Providing hands-on support to production lines and testing new process changes

Employees in this role describe it as rewarding and engaging, with a focus on problem-solving and innovation that often extends beyond scheduled hours.

Responsibilities

• Spend 95% of the workday on the manufacturing floor, working on projects, operating, and repairing equipment
• Collaborate with equipment operators to ensure parts are programmed, provide training, and address process-related issues
• Work with Safety, Quality, and Industrial Engineering teams on parts, assembly, and process improvements
• Implement Engineer Change Notices (ECN) and Process Change Instructions (PCI)
• Support production as needed, including building products to expected quality standards
• Assist production staff with product-related questions
• Work with the Plant Manager on facility improvement projects

Requirements

• 0-10 years of experience
• 4-year technical degree in an electrical, electronics, or mechanically oriented curriculum
• Strong background in mechanical and electrical engineering
• Internship/co-op experience preferred
• Hands-on product exposure and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in electrical skills and AutoCAD or similar software
• Strong communication, multitasking, and collaboration skills
• Commitment to perfect product quality and maintaining a safe work environment

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work standing for 8-10 hours at a time
• Use of ladders, forklifts, or other equipment to acquire parts for product assembly
• Ability to use power and hand tools, as well as electrical testing and measuring equipment
• Ability to lift 35 to 50 pounds independently

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Disability and life insurance (based on medical insurance election)
• 401k with employer match
• Paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) based on tenure
• Flexible spending account (FSA)
• Tuition reimbursement, including for Professional Engineering (PE) License
• Relocation assistance

Pay

$65,000–$85,000 base salary, negotiable based on experience, with additional monthly bonuses tied to productivity and profits.

CaptiveAire is an equal opportunity workplace and reviews applications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, disability, or other protected characteristics. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States; sponsorship for employment visa status is not available at this time. This position is safety-sensitive and subject to drug and alcohol testing under CaptiveAire’s Drug-Free Workplace policy.