Process Improvement Engineering Manager

The Value You’ll Bring

The position summary states the general nature and purpose of the job. Overall accountabilities are defined in this section. As a Process Improvement Engineering Manager, you will be the driving force behind transformative initiatives that elevate operational performance, product quality, and cost efficiency across a network of manufacturing sites. In this high-visibility role, you’ll lead end-to-end process optimization efforts, champion labor efficiency improvements, and embed a culture of continuous improvement organization-wide. Your leadership will extend to building and mentoring top-performing engineering teams, establishing world-class standards and performance systems, and working in close partnership with cross-functional leaders in operations, supply chain, and quality to align on strategic priorities and deliver measurable impact.

What You’ll Do

• Process Optimization and Lean Implementation: Analyze and improve manufacturing processes—including workflows, facility layouts, and labor utilization—to boost operational efficiency and product flow. Lead the implementation of lean manufacturing techniques such as Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, and A3 problem-solving to reduce waste and drive higher throughput across operations.
• Project and Program Management: Lead and manage multiple, concurrent engineering projects from concept through execution, ensuring effective coordination and delivery at every stage. Maintain strict alignment with project timelines, budgets, and performance objectives to drive successful outcomes.
• Data Analytics and Continuous Improvement: Utilize data collection and root cause analysis to evaluate production systems, uncover inefficiencies, and identify key opportunities for improvement. Lead targeted continuous improvement initiatives based on operational insights to enhance performance, efficiency, and overall output.
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and Business Systems: Develop and maintain labor standards, standard operating procedures, and production measurement systems to ensure consistency and operational excellence. Establish and enhance analytical systems that support cost analysis, financial planning, and job evaluation for data-informed decision-making.
• Cross-Function Collaboration and Execution: Collaborate with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, and Supply Chain teams to align technical initiatives with organizational goals. Support new equipment installation and lead process validation efforts to ensure seamless integration and performance from the outset.
• Training, Coaching, and Knowledge Transfer: Facilitate training workshops that empower teams to drive operational excellence. Coach plant personnel and leadership on process optimization best practices, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and capability building.
• Compliance, Auditing, and Governance: Conduct audits and evaluations to assess operational effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. Ensure alignment with internal standards and regulatory requirements, reinforcing compliance and process integrity across the organization.
• Innovation and Technology Integration: Research and implement emerging technologies and systems that strengthen operational capabilities and future-proof manufacturing processes. Drive efficiency, sustainability, and product quality improvements through purposeful technical innovation and continuous advancement.
• Leadership: Drive a positive employee experience through leadership by way of employee development and coaching.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering or a related field and 5+ years of relevant experience in manufacturing or industrial engineering; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
• 2+ years of demonstrated experience in team management/development or project leadership is required.
• Demonstrated success in lean manufacturing, 5S, Value Stream Mapping, and statistical analysis.
• Ability to travel up to 50%, depending on project scope.

Other Skills That Make You Stand Out

• Strong organizational planning and project execution skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel); SAP experience preferred.
• Self-motivated with a high degree of accountability and the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting (up to 50 pounds).
• Work in manufacturing environments with exposure to varying temperatures, mechanical equipment, and noise.
• Some projects may involve navigating uneven terrain during site visits.

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!