Process Optimization Lead

Join Our Team as a Process Optimization Lead at Malvern!

Do you have experience in industrial settings and looking for a rewarding career in a dynamic 24/7 manufacturing environment? Malvern is seeking a passionate and experienced Process Optimization Lead who will be responsible for improving manufacturing processes to increase efficiency, safety, quality, and cost effectiveness. This role will work directly with production and maintenance teams to identify problems, improve workflows, and implement practical solutions on the manufacturing floor. This is a hands-on, plant-focused role that will report directly to the Production Manager and is based at our site in Malvern, AR.

What We’re Looking For

Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and production systems
Ability to analyze processes and identify improvement opportunities
Practical problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment
Ability to communicate clearly with operators and leaders
Strong leadership skills and the ability to mentor, coach, and manage a team
High comfort with data analysis and reporting
Ability to drive change in a production environment
Excellent attention to detail, and strong follow-up abilities
Familiarity with OSHA requirements, dust control, and chemical handling in a wood products facility preferred
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and effectively works with various computer programs
Experience with SAP preferred
Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Technology, Operations Management, or a related field

What We Offer

We offer a comprehensive benefits package tailored to meet diverse needs, including:

Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA/FSA options
401k with company match
Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave, PTO, and holidays
Wellness Program, Gym Reimbursement, Pet Insurance

What You’ll Do

Drive consistency across shifts and teams through clear process definitions and visual standards
Analyze manufacturing processes to identify inefficiencies, waste, and variation
Improve process flow, equipment utilization, and standard work practices
Support process changes, trials, and equipment improvements
Drive incident follow-up, root cause analysis, and corrective actions to reduce downtime and quality defects
Develop and maintain standard operating procedures and process documentation, and esure processes are followed consistently across shifts and teams
Monitor key production metrics to track performance and improvement results
Work closely with Production Manager, Continuous Improvement Manager, production supervisors, maintenance, and quality to drive improvements
Support safety, housekeeping, and compliance expectations

Physical Requirements

Ability to move freely throughout the facility, including climbing stairs and ladders, and navigating around heavy equipment and machinery
Ability to bend, stoop, and crouch as necessary to inspect and maintain equipment
Capability to lift and carry materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds
Ability to perform physical tasks that involve lifting, pushing, pulling, and carrying heavy objects
Endurance to stand and walk for extended periods, often in environments with dust, chemicals, high noise levels, and varying temperatures

About Us: At ARAUCO, we’re more than a global leader in sustainable wood products—we’re a team driven by innovation, environmental stewardship, and strong core values. Committed to responsible forestry and quality craftsmanship, we create products that shape industries and protect the planet. Sustainability is central to everything we do—from responsible forestry to reducing environmental impact, we are dedicated to preserving natural resources for future generations.

Grow your career with purpose and help us shape a better future—one product, one idea, and one team at a time.

Arauco is committed to creating an inclusive culture across the organization. Arauco is an equal opportunity employer to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

Additionally, we demonstrate that commitment by preventing and removing barriers for persons with disabilities. Where it is not possible to remove barriers, Arauco will make efforts to accommodate persons with disabilities in a timely, effective and suitable manner. If you require any accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know.