Plant Engineering is responsible for leading the technical initiatives at the manufacturing plant. This role oversees all aspects of technology within the plant, including process engineering, equipment reliability, automation, controls, project management, technical training, and equipment design. 

Essential Duties and Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Direct and manage the strategic direction of the Plant Engineering department, ensuring alignment with overall company goals.
• Performance Improvement: Track and drive improvements in overall line reliability and performance, aiming for continuous enhancement.
• Engineering & Maintenance Plans: Define, propose, and oversee the implementation of engineering, maintenance, automation, and technology plans, including the development and deployment of the company’s Engineering Manual and Standards.
• Process Implementation: Implement and refine work processes and procedures related to engineering and technical services.
• Communication & Escalation: Ensure open and effective communication within the engineering and maintenance department, serving as a key technical resource for issue escalation.
• Team Development: Train, develop, and mentor engineering and technical staff to foster growth and prepare for future company needs, focusing on troubleshooting, root cause analysis, continuous improvement, project management, and presentation skills.
• Succession Planning: Develop and execute a succession plan for the Engineering and Maintenance teams to ensure long-term operational success.
• Benchmarking & Networking: Promote networking and benchmarking practices to achieve best-in-class performance standards.
• Technology Protection: Protect proprietary technology by managing relationships with approved and certified third parties.
• Technology Advancement: Support and recommend new technologies to enhance operations, including automation where appropriate.
• Strategic Contributions: Play a key role in evaluating potential acquisitions, expansions, and the introduction of new technologies to the company.
• Contractor Management: Manage outsourced contractors and perform other duties as assigned.

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering required.
• Experience: 10-15 years of progressive experience in Engineering and Maintenance Management, with a minimum of 5 years in food and beverage manufacturing.
• Technical Expertise: Strong background in continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, maintenance programs, equipment installation, and automation.
• Leadership & Interpersonal Skills: Proven track record in teamwork, leadership, adaptability, coaching, and initiative.
• Technical Knowledge: Ability to read electrical schematics, P&ID, construction drawings, and related documents.
• Maintenance Program Familiarity: Experience with preventative maintenance program management, GMPs, and SOPs.
• Project Management: Prior experience with project management and tracking tools is essential.
• Industry-Specific Experience: Experience with high-speed packaging equipment required; aseptic experience is highly preferred.
• Attention to Detail: Prior P&L and budget management experience is necessary.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Visual Acuity: Must possess visual acuity to document company records accurately.