Plant Engineering Manager

MUST be US citizen for this role.

Relocation is offered.  Remote means work from local plant in NC and travel 70% to other plants.

Salary is listed, bonus is additional.

The Project Engineering Manager leads strategic automation projects for industrial meat‑processing operations. This role partners with cross‑functional teams to define automation needs, develop innovative equipment solutions, and manage full project execution from concept through installation. The manager serves as a technical authority, driving complex engineering initiatives and ensuring projects meet performance, cost, and compliance requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop preliminary designs, specifications, and cost estimates for automation and equipment projects.
• Conduct research, feasibility analyses, and economic studies to validate design viability.
• Establish design criteria aligned with codes and standards; verify field work and produce as‑built documentation.
• Review engineering work for accuracy and completeness; oversee vendors and contractors throughout execution.
• Coordinate project schedules with plant teams, vendors, and contractors to ensure timely implementation.
• Direct equipment vendors on layouts, utilities, and installation timelines.
• Evaluate consultant deliverables and recommend adjustments.
• Maintain complete project documentation, including manuals, drawings, parts lists, and specifications.
• Lead engineering planning and operational reviews during pre‑project phases.
• Define scope, prepare RFPs, and evaluate proposals.
• Provide timely reports and updates to management.
• Manage contract administration and review bid packages for compliance.
• Prepare project justifications, budgets, calculations, plans, and schedules.
• Monitor installations to ensure adherence to specifications, timelines, and budgets; manage multi‑million‑dollar project budgets.
• Continuously expand robotics and controls expertise to support advanced automation solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field, plus 5+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent).
• Minimum 2 years of leadership experience.
• Strong application of engineering principles in design and operations.
• Experience with construction/installation scheduling and equipment layout/design.
• Proven management of multi‑million‑dollar projects.
• Skills in project management, contract administration, and interpreting national codes/standards.
• Proficient in engineering economics, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to travel up to 50%.
• Knowledge of food processing/meat industry engineering preferred.
• Effective collaborator in fast‑paced, dynamic environments.