Operational Process Engineer

This is a full-time, on-site role for a Process Engineer located in our expanding Freeze Dried facility in Denton, TX
. The selected candidate will be responsible for improving and designing Muenster Pet’s operational processes, ensuring efficiency and quality. Day-to-day tasks include analyzing existing workflows, implementing process control measures, and applying engineering principles to optimize production. Collaboration with various teams to identify improvement opportunities and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards will also be a core part of the role.

You will work alongside the current Production leaders supporting our production processes, fully immersing into all processes on our 24/7 production floor.

• Lead lean transformation initiatives, including value stream mapping, waste elimination, kaizen events, and continuous improvement systems
• Develop and deploy standard work, 5S, visual management, daily management, and KPI dashboards to drive operational excellence
• Analyze and optimize production flow through time studies, takt analysis, SMED, pull/kanban systems, and plant layout improvements
• Track and improve lean performance metrics (OEE, cycle time, changeover time, first-pass yield) and manage improvement project pipelines
• Train, coach, and engage production teams through problem-solving, gemba walks, tier meetings, TPM, and CI capability-building programs
• Support safety, quality, and regulatory compliance while managing capital improvement projects and implementing lean strategies across multiple facilities
• And other very important related responsibilities.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Chemical) or related field, OR associate degree with 5+ years progressive experience in lean manufacturing and continuous improvement implementation
• 3+ years of hands-on experience implementing lean tools and continuous improvement systems in food manufacturing or a similar industry
• Demonstrated success leading kaizen events, continuous improvement programs, and lean transformation initiatives
• Strong facilitation, coaching, and change management skills

• Deep expertise in lean manufacturing, Toyota Production System, and continuous improvement methodologies
• Strong proficiency with lean tools including VSM, 5S, TPM, SMED, standard work, kanban, visual and daily management systems
• Advanced problem-solving and root cause analysis skills using A3, 5-Why, fishbone, Pareto, and data-driven analysis
• Proven ability to coach, mentor, and influence teams at all levels to build a sustainable, continuous improvement culture
• Experience leading kaizen events, workshops, and change management initiatives to drive adoption and results
• Solid understanding of food manufacturing operations, GMPs, food safety requirements, and sanitary design principles
• Effective project and performance management skills, including KPI tracking, SPC, and improvement impact measurement
• Strong communication, facilitation, and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple initiatives across shifts and facilities

Compensation Range: $105K+

Founded in 1932 in Muenster, TX, with expansion to Denton, TX, we have been crafting pet food for nearly a century. Combining decades of expertise with advanced technology, we proudly operate one of the most innovative freeze-drying facilities in the country. Our products range from premium kibble to freeze-dried meals and treats, all engineered for optimal pet nutrition. As leaders in private-label co-manufacturing, we collaborate with brands and retailers nationwide to deliver science-backed, trusted products, ensuring pets enjoy health, happiness, and a wag-worthy life.