Head of Mechanical Engineering - Food Processing Systems

Steelial Contstructions & Metal Fabrication; Kentucky; On-site; USD 100,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Steelial Contstructions & Metal Fabrication is seeking an Engineering Manager to lead a team of mechanical engineers and project engineers supporting design, fabrication, installation, and continuous improvement of food processing and material-handling systems.

You will provide technical leadership, oversee multiple projects from concept through commissioning, ensure regulatory compliance (FDA/USDA/OSHA/ANSI/ASME), and drive efficiency and reliability on customer sites with occasional shop-floor

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience managing and leading a team of mechanical engineers.
• Experience in the food processing, food production, or related regulated manufacturing industries.
• Strong background in mechanical design of processing equipment, conveyors, material-handling systems, or similar machinery.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and budget targets.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of mechanical engineers, designers, and project engineers.
• Oversee engineering execution for food processing equipment and systems, from concept through commissioning.
• Establish engineering standards, best practices, and design guidelines aligned with food industry requirements.
• Review and approve designs, calculations, drawings, and specifications for accuracy, safety, and compliance.
• Coordinate with operations, fabrication, quality, safety, and field installation teams to ensure seamless project delivery.
• Support project planning, budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards (USDA, FDA, OSHA, ANSI, ASME, and 3-A where applicable).
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, cost reduction, reliability, and manufacturability.
• Participate in customer meetings to define scope, resolve technical issues, and support business development efforts.
• Manage performance, conduct reviews, and support professional development and succession planning.

Skills

Technical leadership

Project management

Regulatory compliance

Cross-functional collaboration

Team development

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

PE license

Job description

Steelial Contstructions & Metal Fabrication is seeking an Engineering Manager to lead a team of mechanical engineers and project engineers supporting design, fabrication, installation, and continuous improvement of food processing and material-handling systems.

You will provide technical leadership, oversee multiple projects from concept through commissioning, ensure regulatory compliance (FDA/USDA/OSHA/ANSI/ASME), and drive efficiency and reliability on customer sites with occasional shop-floor