Plant Engineering Manager | Capital Projects & Energy Lead

Colgate; Topeka, Northern (KS, KY); Hybrid; USD 124,000 - 174,000; Full time

Job summary

Colgate-Palmolive Company in Topeka, KS seeks a Plant Engineering Manager to lead a high-performing team, manage a 5-year capital plan, and own the facility’s capital budget. You will drive energy management projects, ensure safety and quality, and guide Maintenance and Project Engineers toward KPI targets.

The role requires robust manufacturing engineering experience, budget oversight, and leadership ability within a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical field (Engineering, Science, or related).
• Minimum of 8 years of manufacturing experience, with a focus on engineering or project management.
• Minimum of 5 years managing capital and departmental budgets.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a people leadership or supervisory role.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (such as SAP) and collaborative digital tools (Google Suite).

Responsibilities

• Lead a multidisciplinary technical team, including Maintenance and Project Engineers, to exceed plant KPIs and foster cross-functional collaboration.
• Serve on the Strategic Leadership Team to set direction and drive continuous improvement.
• Develop and manage the facility capital and maintenance budgets.
• Coordinate with EOHS and Quality teams to ensure safety, food safety, and quality standards.
• Ensure training for new methods and systems to raise technical skill levels.
• Develop the 5-year capital plan and implement the capital strategy.
• Lead energy management and optimization projects across the plant.
• Oversee EMO processes to verify design compliance and operator readiness.

Skills

People leadership

Project management

Budget management

Manufacturing engineering

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a technical field

Master’s degree (MS or MBA)

Tools

SAP

Google Suite

Job description

Colgate-Palmolive Company in Topeka, KS seeks a Plant Engineering Manager to lead a high-performing team, manage a 5-year capital plan, and own the facility’s capital budget. You will drive energy management projects, ensure safety and quality, and guide Maintenance and Project Engineers toward KPI targets.

The role requires robust manufacturing engineering experience, budget oversight, and leadership ability within a fast-paced environment.