Senior Project Engineer

ROLE PURPOSE/ POSITION SUMMARY

Provides engineering and project management services in support of manufacturing operations. Manages medium to large-sized engineering projects and serves as a technical leader on strategic initiatives. Responsible for all phases of project execution including scope development, design, budgeting, scheduling, line layout, equipment procurement, cost estimation and control, implementation, system integration, documentation, commissioning, start-up, and training activities.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES/PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Performs all phases of project management and engineering for manufacturing operations, including scope definition, design, budgeting, scheduling, line layouts, purchasing, cost estimating and control, implementation, system integration, documentation, report writing, start-up, and training.
• Applies extensive knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and sanitary design principles to engineering projects.
• Designs and implements safe manufacturing systems and processes.
• Selects and manages outside engineering firms, vendors, contractors, and service providers to meet customer, product, and capacity requirements.
• Provides technical leadership and oversight for capital projects and facility improvements.
• Stays current with emerging technologies and industry best practices.
• Supports plant maintenance and operations by developing and implementing facility, office, and production layouts that maximize operational efficiency and asset utilization.
• Ensures equipment and systems are designed and maintained according to required specifications and operational needs.
• Develops, justifies, and manages capital improvement projects from concept through implementation.
• Leads cost reduction, productivity improvement, and operational excellence initiatives.
• Facilitates cross-functional improvement workshops and leads implementation of resulting recommendations.
• Provides mentoring, coaching, technical guidance, and professional development support to Engineers and Technicians.
• Serves as the primary technical expert for assigned facilities.
• Builds strong partnerships and influences decisions across Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Supply Chain, customers, vendors, and contractors.
• Leads project teams and provides direction to internal and external resources.
• Maintains responsibility for Food Safety and Quality within areas of influence and promptly reports issues to personnel authorized to initiate corrective action.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS / CAPABILITY PROFILE
Minimum Education 

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering required, preferably Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, Facilities, or Maintenance Engineering.

Minimum Experience

• 7+ years of progressive engineering experience in a manufacturing, industrial, food production, or related environment.
• Demonstrated success leading medium-to-large capital projects from concept through implementation.
• Experience managing vendors, contractors, engineering service providers, and cross-functional project teams.
• Proven experience driving process improvements, cost savings initiatives, and operational excellence programs.
• Experience in a high-growth and dynamic manufacturing environment.

• Experience in the food industry or other short shelf life manufacturing environment.
• Experience mentoring engineers, technicians, and project teams.
• Previous contract manufacturing experience preferred.

Minimum Knowledge/ Skills/ Abilities

• Advanced knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience with SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar design software.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and complex projects simultaneously.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience leveraging integrated technologies to improve business processes.
• Ability to work effectively in ambiguous and rapidly changing environments.
• Strong business acumen and project management capabilities.
• Positive attitude with a proactive and collaborative leadership style.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Excellent verbal, written, listening, facilitation, and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to influence stakeholders and build strong cross-functional relationships.

Working Conditions/ Physical Requirements

• Work is performed in both office and manufacturing plant environments.
• Frequent exposure to production areas with varying temperatures, noise levels, moving machinery, forklifts, and other industrial conditions.
• Must follow all safety requirements and wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout manufacturing facilities.
• Ability to climb stairs, ladders, and access elevated platforms as necessary.
• Must be able to occasionally bend, kneel, stoop, reach, and work around equipment during project planning, installation, and troubleshooting activities.
• Frequent use of computers and standard office equipment.
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Periodic travel may be required to support multiple facilities, vendors, contractors, and project implementations.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends when necessary, to support project execution, equipment commissioning, start-ups, and business-critical operational needs.