VP Engineering (Beef)

The Vice President of Engineering will lead all engineering, maintenance, and technical innovation functions across the company's beef processing and supply chain operations. This executive will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies that optimize plant performance, drive automation and sustainability initiatives, and ensure the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and compliance. The role requires a balance of strategic vision and hands-on leadership within a highly regulated, large-scale food production environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership

  • Define and execute the long-term engineering and capital investment strategy to support business growth and operational excellence.

  • Partner with executive leadership on innovation, technology adoption, and process improvement.

• Operational Excellence

  • Oversee engineering, facilities, utilities, and maintenance across all beef processing plants.

  • Implement automation, robotics, and digital solutions to improve throughput, yield, and quality.

  • Drive continuous improvement in energy efficiency, water usage, and waste reduction.

• Capital Projects & Asset Management

  • Lead planning, budgeting, and execution of capital projects, including expansions, upgrades, and greenfield facilities.

  • Ensure all assets are reliable, safe, and compliant with industry and government regulations.

• Regulatory & Compliance

  • Ensure operations meet USDA, OSHA, EPA, and local environmental/food safety standards.

  • Develop engineering policies and practices that uphold the highest standards of food safety and worker safety.

• Team Leadership

  • Build, mentor, and manage a high-performing engineering and maintenance team.

  • Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Food Engineering, or related field.

• 15+ years of progressive engineering leadership, including at least 5 years in a VP or senior director role.

• Proven experience in large-scale food, meat, or beef processing operations.

• Strong knowledge of automation, process design, refrigeration, utilities, and plant infrastructure.

• Track record of leading multimillion-dollar capital projects.

• Deep understanding of food safety, worker safety, and environmental regulations in the beef industry.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and change management skills.