B&W Process Engineer

Job Title:B&W Process Engineer

Business Function: R&D – B&W Processing

Location: Port Sunlight Research Lab

JOB PURPOSE

Enable fast, reliable scale-up of product ideas into robust, scalable, and sustainable manufacturing processes. You will execute hands-on pilot trials, apply disciplined DOE and root-cause analysis, build or use digital tools/models to support predictive scale-up, and deliver clear, decision-ready recommendations and tech-transfer packages. The role requires rigorous execution of Unilever project management principles, including embedding sound risk management in all that you do. You will also be required to build strong working relationships within the Processing function, the wider R&D community, and the Supply Chain.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1) Deliver with Excellence

- Develop robust, scalable process designs that meet product quality, cost, and sustainability targets.
- Produce clear documentation and tech-transfer packs.
- Plan and run repeatable trials with strong statistical foundations; apply DOE and root-cause analysis.
- Collaborate effectively with pilot plant and factory partners to ensure flawless handovers.

2) Think Three Steps Ahead

- Create future-proof solutions that allow for flexibility in raw materials or variants.
- Anticipate scale-up, automation, and regulatory risks.
- Produce scenario plans, back-up options, and design spaces.
- Engage factory partners early and proactively signal future constraints.

3) Care Deeply

- Design and run processes that protect people and planet.
- Support teammates—share knowledge, help unblock others, and listen actively.
- Speak up on technical or ethical concerns; challenge constructively when quality/performance is at risk.

4) Focus on What Counts

- Prioritize the highest-impact technical work that directly enables launches and business priorities.
- Simplify to reduce cost, complexity, and waste.
- Use data-led insights and communicate concisely to enable quick decisions.
- Stop or pivot low-value work when priorities shift.

What You’ll Deliver (Outcomes)

- Transfer-ready recipes with clear Process Flow Diagrams and documented assumptions/risks and mitigation plans.
- Digital batch records that enable capture and communication of process development work.
- Maintain Innovation and process capability dash boards that demonstrate adherence to Unilever’s Processing function project management principles and to enable senior stakeholder decision making.

ALL ABOUT YOU

Skills & Experience

- Proven use of DOE, statistical analysis, and root-cause methods.
- Track record collaborating with pilot/factory teams.
- Experience building risk assessments, scenario plans, and design spaces.
- Commitment to safety, inclusion, and sustainability.
- Strong prioritization and ability to simplify; crisp, decision-oriented communication.
- Comfortable with digital tools/models for predictive scale-up and process optimization.

Education & Background

- Degree (or equivalent experience) in Chemical/Process Engineering or a related scientific discipline.
- Hands-on experience in pilot/manufacturing environments is advantageous.

Key Relationships

- R&D Processing, R&D X-functional teams (e.g. Formulation, Technical Project Leaders, Packaging) & Supply Chain.
- External equipment vendors and manufacturing partners as needed for trials and implementation.

Success Measures (12–18 months)

- Fewer trial cycles and faster decisions through disciplined DOE and clear communication.
- Process designs that are robust, scalable, and sustainable, with risks anticipated and options documented.

-Ability to work autonomously & proactively generate and try impactful new ideas.
- Evident impact on business priorities via simplified processes and data-led recommendations.

NOTES

What We Offer

Not only do we offer a competitive salary and pension scheme, we also offer an annual bonus, subsidized gym membership, a discounted staff shop and shares. You’ll have the opportunity to work directly with our renowned and exciting brands in a flexible and hybrid working environment.

Whilst the role is advertised on a full-time basis, we would be happy to discuss possible flexible working options and what this may look like for you. We are a key advocate of wellbeing and offer a variety of support for our people including hubs, programmes and development opportunities. We strive to achieve a family-friendly and inclusive workplace and to, above all, create possibilities for all.

Diversity at Unilever is about inclusion, embracing differences, creating possibilities and growing together for better business performance. We embrace diversity in our workforce. This means giving full and fair consideration to all applicants and continuing development of all employees regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership, and pregnancy and maternity. We are also more than happy to provide reasonable adjustments during our application and interview process to enable you to be present your best self. To find out more, including about our Employee Resource Groups, please click here Equity, Diversity & Inclusion at Unilever | Unilever.

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