Job Details

Principal (Director Level) Process Engineer- Wastewater

We are seeking a highly skilled Principal Process Engineer- Wastewater to lead the optimization, monitoring, and long term performance of wastewater treatment systems at our Twin Falls, Idaho facility- the largest yogurt plant in the world. This individual will serve as the sites subject matter expert for wastewater treatment, driving system reliability, compliance, and sustainability while partnering closely with operation, maintenance and leadership.

Responsibilities:

• Process Leadership: Own and optimize all aspects of the plants wastewater treatment process, from biological and chemical treatment to sludge management and system performance.
• Accountability & Impact: Serve as the primary owner of Chobani's wastewater treatment performance at the Twin Falls site. You will be accountable for the system's effectiveness, regulatory compliance, and environmental impact- ensuring the facility consistently meets permit requirements, protects surrounding ecosystems, and upholds Chobani's commitment to sustainable, responsible manufacturing.
• System Design, Redesign & Improvement: Lead wastewater treatment system upgrades, redesigns and process improvements initiatives to enhance capacity reliability and environmental compliance.
• Data & Performance Monitoring: Develop and maintain process monitoring systems to track key wastewater metrics and identify optimization opportunities.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with operations, maintenance, and EHS teams to ensure wastewater systems support production needs and regulatory requirements.

Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. Additional years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in process engineering, with a focus on dairy facility wastewater treatment systems and utilities. Experience in dairy manufacturing processes.
• Technical Skills:
• Biological Wastewater Treatment Systems: 8+ years of experience with aerobic and anaerobic treatment processes, biomass health monitoring, and optimization of MLSS, MCRT, and F/M ratios.
• Process Monitoring & Control: 8+ years of experience monitoring and interpreting parameters such as BOD, COD, TSS, pH, nutrient balance (N/P ratios), MLSS/MLVSS, and biomass activity to ensure consistent treatment performance.
• Instrumentation & Automation: 8+ years of experience working with SCADA systems, process instrumentation, and trend analysis to drive process optimization and troubleshooting.
• Wastewater Characterization: 8+ years of experience analyzing influent and effluent characteristics specific to dairy or high-strength food manufacturing (fats, proteins, lactose, etc.) and designing systems to manage variable organic loads.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop innovative solutions to technical challenges.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Leadership: Demonstrated leadership capabilities, including team management, mentorship, and conflict resolution.
• Attention to Detail: High level of attention to detail and accuracy in all aspects of work.
• Adaptability: Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities simultaneously.