Engineering Manager - Protein

The Engineering Manager is responsible for providing technical leadership and strategic oversight for engineering, maintenance support, and capital project execution within a protein manufacturing facility. This role ensures plant equipment, utilities, and infrastructure operate safely, reliably, and efficiently while supporting production goals, food safety requirements, and regulatory compliance. The Engineering Manager plays a critical role in driving continuous improvement, managing capital investments, and developing a strong engineering and technical support team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead engineering and technical functions to support safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations.

• Plan, manage, and execute capital projects, equipment installations, line upgrades, and facility expansions within budget and timeline.

• Provide technical guidance for production equipment, automation, utilities, refrigeration, wastewater systems, and facility infrastructure.

• Partner closely with maintenance, operations, FSQA, and safety teams to improve equipment reliability, reduce downtime, and enhance performance.

• Ensure compliance with OSHA, USDA/FSIS, environmental, and food-safety regulations related to engineering and facility systems.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on throughput, yield, energy efficiency, and cost reduction.

• Evaluate new technologies, equipment, and processes to support operational excellence and future growth.

• Develop engineering standards, documentation, and best practices across the facility or organization.

• Manage engineering budgets, contractors, vendors, and external service providers.

• Lead, mentor, and develop engineers, technicians, and project teams to build technical capability and succession.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Chemical Engineering (or related field).

• 7-10+ years of engineering experience in protein, food, or industrial manufacturing environments.

• Strong knowledge of processing equipment, packaging systems, automation, and utilities.

• Experience with refrigeration (ammonia), boilers, wastewater treatment, and environmental compliance preferred.

• Proven ability to manage capital projects, budgets, and cross-functional teams.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.

• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.

• Proficiency with CAD tools, CMMS, project management software, and standard business applications.