Capital Projects Manager (Meat Processing)

Position Summary

The Capital Projects Manager is responsible for planning, managing, and executing capital investment projects within meat processing facilities. This role oversees projects from concept through completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with food safety, regulatory, and operational standards.

The Capital Projects Manager works closely with plant leadership, engineering teams, contractors, and equipment suppliers to support facility expansions, production line installations, automation upgrades, and infrastructure improvements.

Key Responsibilities

Capital Project Planning

• Identify, evaluate, and develop capital improvement opportunities across processing operations.

• Prepare project proposals including scope, cost estimates, timelines, and return on investment (ROI) analysis.

• Support annual capital planning and budgeting processes.

Project Management

• Manage capital projects from design through commissioning and start-up.

• Develop detailed project schedules and ensure milestones are met.

• Coordinate contractors, engineers, architects, and vendors throughout project execution.

• Ensure projects remain within approved budgets and timelines.

Facility & Equipment Installation

• Oversee installation and commissioning of processing equipment including:

  • Slaughter and fabrication systems

  • Conveyors and automation systems

  • Packaging and labeling equipment

  • Refrigeration systems

  • Wastewater treatment systems

• Ensure equipment integrates effectively with existing plant operations.

Regulatory & Food Safety Compliance

• Ensure all projects comply with regulatory requirements including USDA FSIS, OSHA, and environmental regulations.

• Design and implement projects that support food safety programs such as HACCP and sanitation requirements.

• Ensure proper hygienic design and sanitary construction standards.

Contractor & Vendor Management

• Manage relationships with engineering firms, contractors, and equipment suppliers.

• Oversee contractor safety and compliance with company policies.

• Review bids, negotiate contracts, and manage vendor performance.

Budget & Financial Oversight

• Develop and manage project budgets ranging from small equipment upgrades to multi-million-dollar facility expansions.

• Track project expenditures and manage change orders.

• Deliver projects that meet financial and operational performance expectations.

Commissioning & Start-Up

• Lead equipment testing, commissioning, and operational start-up activities.

• Coordinate training for operations and maintenance teams on new equipment and systems.

• Ensure smooth transition from project completion to operational ownership.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve plant efficiency, capacity, automation, and reliability through capital investment.

• Support operational excellence and productivity initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.

• Professional certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) are preferred.