Director of Engineering (Beef Plant)

We are seeking a seasoned Director of Engineering to lead the engineering and maintenance functions at our beef processing facility. This individual will be responsible for ensuring plant equipment reliability, driving capital project execution, improving manufacturing efficiency, and supporting compliance with all regulatory and safety standards. The ideal candidate will bring a strategic, hands-on leadership approach to drive innovation and long-term asset performance in a high-volume food production environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead all engineering, maintenance, and utilities functions across the plant to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operations.

• Develop and manage the facility's capital improvement strategy, including budgeting, justification, execution, and project management.

• Oversee maintenance programs (preventive and predictive) to maximize equipment uptime and performance.

• Collaborate with cross-functional departments (operations, quality, safety, procurement) to support continuous improvement initiatives and plant performance goals.

• Ensure compliance with USDA, OSHA, EPA, and other regulatory agencies in all facility design, upgrades, and maintenance practices.

• Implement engineering standards and best practices for equipment, automation, and energy management.

• Evaluate and integrate new technologies and processes to enhance productivity, food safety, and worker safety.

• Lead and mentor a team of engineers, technicians, and maintenance personnel to foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and professional development.

• Manage relationships with third-party vendors, contractors, and OEMs to ensure effective service and support.

• Serve as a technical resource during audits, inspections, and customer visits.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial Engineering or related field (Master's degree or PE license a plus).

• 8-10+ years of engineering or maintenance leadership experience in a USDA-regulated meat or food manufacturing environment.

• Strong knowledge of industrial systems including refrigeration, hydraulics, pneumatics, HVAC, electrical, and automation systems.

• Proven success leading capital projects, process improvement initiatives (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma), and cross-functional engineering teams.

• Familiarity with CMMS and reliability-centered maintenance practices.

• Strong interpersonal, analytical, and communication skills.

• Commitment to safety, quality, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.