Spray Drying Process Engineer in Skelmersdale
Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller Skelmersdale About the role
We’re recruiting a Spray 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 responsibilities
- Technical ownership of spray dryers, evaporators and associated powder handling systems
- Develop and embed preventative maintenance strategies and asset care standards
- Create, standardise and maintain SOPs, critical process parameters and set points
- Lead dryer top loss reviews and performance improvement activities
- Use data analysis, root‑cause analysis and process modelling to drive OEE, yield and energy improvements
- Act as technical escalation lead for drying‑related operational issues
- Support investigations into quality deviations, contamination events and equipment failures
- Build and maintain a full technical drawing and P&ID library for drying systems
- Identify and deliver opportunities for automation, digitalisation and advanced process control
- Develop and manage critical spares strategies for drying assets
- Lead or support capital projects including scope development, business cases and commissioning
- Work with OEMs, suppliers and contractors to optimise equipment performance
What 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‑solving
- Working knowledge of OEE, CI tools (DMAIC, 5 Whys, A3, Fishbone)
- Comfortable operating in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment
- Strong stakeholder engagement skills across Engineering, Operations and Quality
- Confident working as a technical authority and challenging where required
- Experience in food manufacturing or a regulated environment is highly desirable
What we offer:
- A technically impactful role with genuine ownership and visibility
- Opportunity to work on complex, high‑value spray drying assets
- Investment in engineering capability, capital projects and automation
- A collaborative site culture with strong CI and engineering focus
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Clear development and progression opportunities within Müller Engineering
- 4 x life assurance
- 10% annual bonus – based on company targets
At Müller, 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.
Your tasks
Own and optimise spray drying processes in a dynamic food manufacturing environment.
Your profile
Degree in Chemical or Process Engineering and experience in spray drying.
What's also included
Competitive salary, annual bonus, life assurance, and clear career progression.
Tech stack & ways of working
Spray Drying Process Engineer in Skelmersdale employer: Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller
At Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where every employee can thrive. As an Employee Relations Partner in Severnside, you will benefit from our commitment to professional development, with ample opportunities for training and growth, all while being part of a collaborative team dedicated to upholding the highest standards of employment legislation.
View Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller profile
Your perspectives
Make a real impact on high-value projects and drive continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice
Join Food Science Communities
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Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects
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Tailor Your Cover Letter
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Include Certifications
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How to prepare for a job interview at Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller
Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
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Locations
- Skelmersdale
