Principal Manufacturing Engineer

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A great job-and a great future-awaits you at Smithfield Foods. We are an American food company with a leading position in packaged meats and fresh pork products. We’re looking for motivated people who want to join our team and grow lasting and meaningful careers with us. Apply Now!

THE VALUE YOU’LL BRING:
The position summary states the general nature and purpose of the job. Overall accountabilities are defined in this section.

The Principal Engineer will lead the design, development, and execution of major, complex industrial projects that set new standards for efficiency, sustainability, and innovation. This role is responsible for driving engineering strategy from concept to completion, overseeing structural, mechanical, electrical, and automation systems for large-scale facilities.

You’ll collaborate with cross-functional teams, manage contractors and vendors, and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements while delivering projects on time and within budget. If you’re passionate about building state-of-the-art operations and shaping the future of manufacturing, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.

WHAT YOU’LL DO:
The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.

• Lead Engineering Design & Execution: Develop and implement the full engineering plan for the facility, including structural, mechanical, electrical, and automation systems.
• Innovate for Scale & Sustainability: Introduce advanced technologies and processes that optimize throughput, reduce waste, and minimize environmental impact.
• Project Leadership: Oversee contractors, vendors, and internal teams to ensure timely delivery of milestones within budget.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to food safety, USDA, and environmental regulations.
• Risk Management: Identify and mitigate engineering risks throughout the project lifecycle.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive innovation in manufacturing processes to maintain competitive advantage

WHAT WE’RE SEEKING:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Packaging Engineering or related field and 10+ years of experience in the packaging industry preference towards meat; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
• 5+ years’ experience in a position of leadership to include working in teams and mentorship.
• Energized by collaboration through travel to other locations 50-75% of the time depending on the initiative being executed.

OTHER SKILLS THAT MAKE YOU STAND OUT:

• Solid understanding of complex manufacturing strategies to solve complex problems and develop innovative solutions, such as lean manufacturing, corporate purchasing agreements, and strategic sourcing.
• Expertise in automation, process optimization, and sustainability initiatives.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to influence at all levels.
• Demonstrate personnel and food safe work practices, especially while working in plant environments.
• Excellent writing, interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)
• Demonstrate organizational, time management, and multi-tasking skills to manage and deliver projects on time
• Work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment
• Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Will lead teams of Engineers and other stakeholders either directly or indirectly.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee should possess to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Mobility: Some positions may involve frequent bending, moving, lifting, and carrying materials weighing up to 50 pounds. In more physically demanding roles, this weight may go up to 70 pounds.
• Standing: You may need to stand for up to eight hours each day, especially during site visits or meetings.
• Weather Conditions: Depending on the job context, you might work in various weather conditions, including exposure to outdoor elements.
• Terrain: Ifen you visit project sites, you may encounter uneven terrain, so mobility and adaptability are essential.

Relocation Package Available Yes

EEO Information

Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.

Check out this video to learn more about this role!