Spray Drying Process Engineer

Spray Drying Process EngineerLocation: SkelmersdaleContract: Permanent | Full timeAbout the roleWe're recruiting aSpray Drying Process Engineer to join our Skelmersdale site, this is a newly created role due to business demand and growth,playing a critical role in the technical ownership, optimisation and long-term performance of our spray drying and evaporation processes.This is a hands-on, site-based engineering role with real accountability, focused on process stability, asset care, performance improvement and technical problem-solving within a complex food manufacturing environment.You'll act as the technical escalation point for spray dryers and evaporators, working closely with Engineering, Operations, Quality and CI teams to reduce losses, improve efficiency, and drive continuous improvement.Key responsibilitiesTechnical ownership of spray dryers, evaporators and associated powder handling systemsDevelop and embed preventative maintenance strategies and asset care standardsCreate, standardise and maintain SOPs, critical process parameters and set pointsLead dryer top loss reviews and performance improvement activitiesUse data analysis, root-cause analysis and process modelling to drive OEE, yield and energy improvementsAct as technical escalation lead for drying-related operational issuesSupport investigations into quality deviations, contamination events and equipment failuresBuild and maintain a full technical drawing and P&ID library for drying systemsIdentify and deliver opportunities for automation, digitalisation and advanced process controlDevelop and manage critical spares strategies for drying assetsLead or support capital projects including scope development, business cases and commissioningWork with OEMs, suppliers and contractors to optimise equipment performanceWhat we're looking for:Degree-qualified in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering or similar (or equivalent experience)Strong experience working with spray drying and evaporation processes (food, dairy, powders or similar)Proven background in process optimisation, performance improvement and problem-solvingWorking knowledge of OEE, CI tools (DMAIC, 5 Whys, A3, Fishbone)Comfortable operating in a fast-paced manufacturing environmentStrong stakeholder engagement skills across Engineering, Operations and QualityConfident working as a technical authority and challenging where requiredExperience in food manufacturing or a regulated environment is highly desirableWhat we offer:A technically impactful role with genuine ownership and visibilityOpportunity to work on complex, high-value spray drying assetsInvestment in engineering capability, capital projects and automationA collaborative site culture with strong CI and engineering focusCompetitive salary and benefits packageClear development and progression opportunities within Mller Engineering4 x life assurance10% annual bonus - based on company targetsWhy Mller?Mller UK & Ireland is one of the UK's leading food manufacturers, operating across multiple dairies and processing sites. We invest heavily in engineering capability, innovation and continuous improvement, giving our engineers the opportunity to make a real difference at site and group level.At Mller, we're committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels they belong. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and encourage people to apply even if they don't meet every requirement listed. If you need reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know - we're happy to support you.#hiringYou can find out more about Mller and what it's like to work for us by clicking here Careers at Mller UK & IrelandTPBN1_UKTJ