Project Engineering Manager (Relocation)

When you join Smithfield, you become part of a company that’s sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities, and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in gratitude, communication, respect, and accountability, and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute, and make a real impact.

About the role

Join our Engineering team and become a driving force in transforming production processes to maximize efficiency and minimize waste—directly impacting our bottom line and helping us stay at the cutting edge of the industry. You’ll analyze data, draft strategic implementation plans, and tackle challenges head-on to optimize operations, all while playing a key role in the manufacturing of iconic brands like Smithfield, Eckrich, Nathan’s Famous, and more. Your work will be essential in meeting the ever-evolving needs of our customers and consumers.

As a Project Engineering Manager, you’ll apply your expertise in science and mathematics to lead and execute large-scale, complex technical projects within the pork and packaged meat industry. You’ll oversee the design, development, and implementation of innovative solutions, leading a team of talented engineers either directly or indirectly. Your experience will allow you to work independently on most tasks, stepping in for guidance only on the most intricate challenges. You’ll proactively identify risks and trends, crafting effective solutions to keep projects on track and drive success.

Responsibilities

• Develop engineering designs, material specifications, and project cost estimates. Conduct feasibility studies and economic analysis to support designs.
• Ensure designs meet required standards and codes; validate field work and create as-built drawings.
• Review engineering submissions for accuracy and completeness.
• Manage project execution by directing vendors and contractors. Coordinate project schedules with plant personnel, vendors, and contractors. Collaborate with management and engineering teams to implement plans.
• Partner with vendors and contractors to plan layouts and meet utility requirements. Review consultant work and recommend adjustments.
• Maintain documentation (manuals, drawings, specifications) and vendor contacts.
• Conduct planning and reviews during pre-project phases. Define scope of work, prepare and evaluate proposals.
• Submit regular reports to management on project status.
• Manage contract administration and review bid packages. Prepare project documents (budget analyses, plans, schedules).
• Monitor installations to ensure they meet specifications and stay within budget.
• Drive a positive employee experience through leadership, employee development, and coaching.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering or a related field, and 5+ years of relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 2+ years’ experience in a leadership position, including team development and management.
• Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues.
• Knowledge of installation and construction project scheduling.
• Project Management skills; Contract Administration skills; National codes and standards interpretation skills.
• Proficient in AutoCAD and Microsoft Office.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, organizational planning, teamwork, analytical reasoning, and adaptability.
• Willingness to travel to other locations (50% of the time).

Skills

• Ability to work well with others in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Respectful, approachable, and team-oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.
• Proficient in engineering economics.
• Previous experience managing multi-million-dollar projects with large scopes is desirable.
• Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry is preferred.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• The majority of the time is spent in an office setting outside of the production plant.
• The plant environment may include wet or humid conditions (non-weather related), extreme cold and heat (non-weather related), working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and chemicals.
• Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be loud in the production area.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.
• Frequently required to sit, use hands, and talk or hear.

Relocation package available.