Director of Engineering
About This Opportunity
This isn’t just another plant leadership role. It’s a chance to take the reins of maintenance and engineering in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment where your decisions directly impact uptime, safety, and the bottom line. If you’re the kind of leader who thrives on solving complex problems, building high-performing teams, and driving real, measurable improvements, this is your next move.
What You’ll Do
Own capital projects from concept to completion — on time, on budget, and with zero compromise on safety, food safety, or environmental standards. You’ll manage every phase to minimize disruption and deliver strategic improvements that actually move the needle.
Drive advanced maintenance strategies — including Preventive and Predictive Maintenance and TPM. You won’t just talk about reliability; you’ll build systems that make it happen.
Lead and inspire the maintenance team through clear delegation, consistent policy enforcement, and a safety-first mindset. You’ll be the go-to problem solver for daily operational challenges, from quick troubleshooting to long-term fixes that stop recurring issues in their tracks.
Track what matters — develop and monitor Key Performance Indicators for equipment reliability, supplier performance, and overall equipment effectiveness. Your insights will keep every area of the plant humming.
Build a culture of excellence — coach, develop, and empower your engineering teams. Partner with HR to foster safety, open communication, and recognition while building a diverse, motivated workforce.
What You Bring
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field from a regionally accredited four-year college or university, plus 10+ years of experience in Engineering management (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
Master’s degree holders with 8+ years of relevant experience are also welcome.
5+ years of leadership experience, including team development and performance management.
A track record of implementing TPM, predictive maintenance, or similar reliability programs in a manufacturing or plant environment.
The ability to think strategically while staying hands-on when needed — you’re as comfortable in the control room as you are in the boardroom.
Compensation & Location
$160,000 – $210,000 per year, plus bonus potential.
Based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota — a growing hub with a strong quality of life, low cost of living, and a community that values hard work and innovation.
Screening Questions
Can you describe your experience leading maintenance and engineering in a food manufacturing environment, specifically with meat processing operations?
What is your experience implementing Preventative and Predictive Maintenance and TPM systems to reduce downtime and improve equipment reliability?
Describe a capital project you led from concept to completion in a plant setting, including how you managed budget, timeline, and safety/food safety standards.
Are you legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship?
This role is onsite in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Are you willing to relocate to or currently reside in the Sioux Falls area? If so, please confirm your availability for a 30-minute phone screen.