Process Optimization Specialist Winnipeg - Lagimodiere Blvd., MB 7/6/2026

Maple Leaf Foods; Winnipeg; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Health and Wellness benefits

Defined Contribution Pension Plan with company matching

Comprehensive tuition reimbursement program

Two paid volunteer days annually

Job summary

Maple Leaf Foods in Winnipeg is seeking an experienced engineer to lead improvements in manufacturing processes. You will drive initiatives to enhance efficiency, oversee product development, and contribute to capital projects while collaborating with Operations and R&D teams.

Ideal candidates should possess a degree in Engineering and 3–5 years of industry experience, along with strong analytical skills. Competitive health benefits and a supportive work environment are offered.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of engineering experience in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.
• Professional engineering designation is an asset.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively within team dynamics.

Responsibilities

• Drive manufacturing process improvements to increase efficiency and reliability.
• Support product upgrades and new product development.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean/Six Sigma tools.
• Conduct safety risk assessments and oversee safety tasks.

Skills

Lean manufacturing principles

Analytical and problem-solving abilities

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Excellent computer skills (MS Office, AutoCAD)

Education

College or university education in Engineering or Engineering Technologist Diploma

Job description

The Opportunity:

Reporting to the Production Manager, you will lead improvements to manufacturing equipment and processes by evaluating products, workflows, and production methods to elevate efficiency and performance.

Snapshot of a Day-in-the-Life:

• Drive manufacturing process improvements to increase capacity, efficiency, reliability, and cost performance.
• Support product upgrades and new product development, including process layouts, documentation, and plant-level trial coordination.
• Partner closely with Operations and R&D to validate processes, ensure quality expectations are met, and maintain accurate BOMs.
• Contribute to capital projects through cost-benefit analysis, equipment selection, vendor coordination, FAT, and commissioning.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean/Six Sigma tools to reduce waste and streamline operations.
• Conduct and review safety risk assessments, PSHSRs, and equipment design evaluations while overseeing contractors and safety tasks.
• Champion ergonomic and process design improvements that enhance equipment performance and reduce MTTR.
• Support preventive and predictive maintenance programs, breakdown analysis, and recurrence prevention.
• Develop and maintain standardized process documentation, visual management tools, and production performance standards.
• Promote and uphold food safety, quality, and health & safety requirements across all improvement initiatives.

What You’ll Bring:

• College or university education in Engineering or an Engineering Technologist Diploma (mechanical, industrial, or electrical).
• 3–5 years of engineering experience, preferably within a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.
• Professional engineering designation is an asset.
• Excellent computer skills, proficient in MS Office and AutoCAD, with solid to advanced spreadsheet capabilities, complemented by strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Self‑motivated and passionate individual with a high sense of urgency who thrives on managing diverse tasks and consistently delivering results across multiple priorities.
• Experience with Lean manufacturing principles.
• Well‑developed interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively within team dynamics.

What We Offer at Maple Leaf Foods:

• Being part of a high‑performance, people‑focused company that has an inspiring and unique vision to become the most sustainable protein company on earth, and a deep commitment to sustainable protein across North America.
• An inclusive company culture and a work environment that keeps our people safe, rewards excellence, and empowers everyone to learn and contribute their best.
• Competitive Health and Wellness benefits that offer flexibility to meet your individual or family needs, including programs focused on improving mental health and wellbeing. These benefits start on your first day of employment.
• Defined Contribution Pension Plan with company matching that starts on your first day of employment.
• Learning and development opportunities, including workshops, ‘speaker series’ events, and resources that allow you to develop your skills and progress your career.
• Comprehensive tuition reimbursement program that supports continuous learning and development of our team members through investment in eligible degrees, diplomas, professional certification, or trades programs.
• Supporting our deep commitment to community impact, we offer up to two paid days annually to volunteer at a cause of your choice.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Championing diversity and inclusion is a critical component to advancing our collective purpose and vision and living the Maple Leaf Leadership Values. We believe in building, investing in, recognizing, and rewarding remarkable people who value an inclusive workplace, embrace all forms of diversity, and commit to including every voice in our collaborative environment. Accommodation is available upon request for applicants with disabilities in the recruitment and assessment process and when hired; please contact our Talent Attraction Team at [e-mail].