Associate Engineer - Factory Innovation

Answer why this job is in the organization; Why this job exists

The Factory Innovation acts as a link between Innovation workstream and Manufacturing team, responsible for commercializing new raw material & process equipment innovation into Enstek & Chonburi’s plant. Working closely with product developers on ensuring product specification, process innovation on new process equipment & plant team on scalability. Factory Innovation also defines material & process specification ranges for optimization performance & quality. This role is based in Enstek, Malaysia and supports the Snacks brand across Asia, Middle East, and Africa (AMEA), acting as a technical resource and strategic partner to cross-functional teams.

Please list the most important and relevant responsibilities

Drives Business Growth 1. Leads commercializing solutions for new process/material innovations into manufacturing facilities. 2. Define, plan & execute process trials with R&D developers & Manufacturing team to validate performance, quality, efficiency & stability. 3. Identifies & resolves technical & material issues during commercialization. 4. Creates process material & process specifications for the plant during handover.  5. Collaborates with Product Developers, Technical Service, engineers, supplier & Manufacturing to ensure smooth project handover. 6. Supports continuous improvement & standardization of process & material quality specification. Leadership 1. Functions as a Program/Project Manager, Planner, Coordinator, Communicator, and Technical Expert. 2. Provides strategic input to cross-functional teams and influences decision-making through technical insights. Innovation / Creativity 1. Identifies & implements process productivity & sustainability improvements workstreams. 2. Collaborates with suppliers and global resources for scaling new process solutions. Technical Expertise 1. Serves as the subject matter expert in process engineering (equipment & process flow), raw material specification & Pringle chip finish goods quality. 2. Maintains up-to-date knowledge of current operational process technology & finished process quality performance. People Management 1. Manages one direct report, setting performance expectations, conducting evaluations, and supporting career development. Other Duties 1. Based in Enstek Malaysia, with travel (~20%) to manufacturing sites, suppliers, and regional offices. 2. May require extended hours, shift work, or weekend support depending on project needs. 3. Occasional hands-on operation of process equipment.

Context and Scope

Explain how the job gets done and the way it operates within the team and with stakeholders

The role supports a US$250Mn regional business and reports to the Associate Director, Process Innovation, AMEA Snacks. It acts as a link between the Innovation workstream and Manufacturing team, working closely with product developers to ensure product specifications, process innovation on new process equipment, and plant scalability. The role collaborates with Marketing, R&D, Engineering, Project Managers, Sensory, Regulatory, Quality, Supply Chain, Finance, and Sales, as well as external packaging material suppliers, equipment vendors, co-manufacturers, consultants, and research organizations. It also collaborates with suppliers and global resources to scale new process solutions and works comfortably with local shopfloor operators, technicians, and supervisors.

Job Specifications/Qualifications

State the preferred education, knowledge, skills and experience this position requires.

Education & Professional