Process Improvement Engineer

Smithfield Foods, Inc.; Clinton, Northern (NC, KY); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation Package Available

Job summary

Smithfield Foods, Inc. is seeking a Process Improvement Engineer in North Carolina to drive efficiency and cost savings across facilities. You will lead data‑driven initiatives, collaborate with cross‑functional teams, and mentor plant personnel in lean methods.

Responsibilities include optimizing processes, leading A3 and Kaizen projects, and integrating new technologies while ensuring budget alignment and data integrity. A 2+ year track record in manufacturing is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four‑year college or university in Engineering or a related field and 2+ years of relevant experience in manufacturing or industrial engineering; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.

Responsibilities

• Process Optimization and Efficiency: optimize plant performance using data‑driven insights to improve labor and equipment utilization and reduce costs.
• Continuous Improvement and Lean Initiatives: lead initiatives using A3, Kaizen, and Value Stream Mapping to drive efficiency and cultural change.
• Training, Coaching, and Change Management: facilitate workshops and mentor teams on lean practices to sustain improvements.
• Technology Integration and Systems: evaluate and implement new equipment and technologies; document and track performance with SAP and Office tools.
• Data Analytics and Root Cause Investigation: perform RCA and drive improvement projects based on data insights.
• SOP and Standardization: develop SOPs and visualize standards for consistency on the production floor.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: work with operations, engineering, and leadership to standardize processes and ensure data integrity.
• Compliance, Reporting, and Sustainability: support audits and report on improvements, with a focus on energy, water, and waste reduction.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

5S

Value Stream Mapping

A3 problem-solving

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

SAP

Microsoft Office

Excel

Word

PowerPoint

Outlook

Job description

When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special – 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 our Core Four values – 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.

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 Engineer, you will be at the forefront of transforming manufacturing operations by unlocking efficiency, minimizing waste, and driving measurable cost savings across multiple facilities. In this high‑impact role, you’ll lead data‑driven initiatives that optimize production systems and align with our strategic business goals. Through close collaboration with cross‑functional teams and hands‑on mentorship of plant personnel, you’ll foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation—empowering teams to reach new heights of performance and operational excellence.

What you’ll do

The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.

• Process Optimization and Efficiency: You will optimize plant performance by evaluating process efficiencies, conducting time and capacity studies, and using data‑driven insights to improve labor and equipment utilization. You will also identify opportunities to eliminate waste and reduce production costs through detailed workflow analysis and lean methodology.

• Continuous Improvement and Lean Initiatives: You will lead process improvement initiatives using A3 problem‑solving, Kaizen, and Value Stream Mapping to drive operational efficiency and impact. You will also deploy and sustain MIQ lean transformation and Smithfield Way principles, supporting long‑term cultural and organizational change through strategic improvement efforts.

• Training, Coaching, and Change Management: You will participate in and facilitate training workshops that drive operational and cultural improvements across the organization. You will also mentor teams on lean practices and continuous improvement methodologies, empowering them to adopt sustainable, high‑performance habits.

• Technology Integration and Systems: You will assist in evaluating and implementing new equipment and technologies to enhance operational efficiency, while monitoring installations to ensure alignment with budget and technical specifications. You will also utilize tools such as Microsoft Office Suite and SAP to support process documentation, data analysis, and performance tracking.

• Data Analytics and Root Cause Investigation: You will assist in root cause analysis and corrective action planning to resolve manufacturing and operational challenges. You will also transform data insights into actionable improvement projects using A3 methodology to drive measurable outcomes.

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and Standardization: You will develop and maintain standard operating procedures, work standards, and visual management systems to ensure consistency and clarity on the production floor. You will also establish and implement ‘Best In Class’ and ‘Best Practice’ methods to drive cost reduction and minimize process variability.

• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: You will collaborate with operations, engineering, and corporate leadership to standardize processes and promote alignment across the organization. You will also enhance cross‑departmental decision‑making by strengthening data integrity and ensuring consistent information flow.

• Compliance, Reporting, and Sustainability: You will support compliance audits and ensure the long‑term sustainability of implemented improvements, maintaining accountability across operations. You will also deliver regular updates and strategic reports to senior leadership, while advancing environmental sustainability through initiatives that reduce energy consumption, water usage, and waste.

What we’re seeking

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four‑year college or university in Engineering or a related field and 2+ years of relevant experience in manufacturing or industrial engineering; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.

Other skills that make you stand out

• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, 5S, Value Stream Mapping, and A3 problem‑solving preferred.
• Strong planning, organizational, and analytical skills with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Must be a self‑starter with a high level of accountability and the ability to work independently or in team settings.
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, with a collaborative and coaching mindset.
• Strong skills in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate with all levels of the organization.
• Ability to work collaboratively in fast‑paced, dynamic environments.
• Ability to lead by influence, utilizing factual data to support initiatives and drive improvement efforts.

Physical demands & work environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee should possess to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Ability to occasionally lift/move up to 50 pounds. May require prolonged periods of standing, walking, bending, or working in varying temperature conditions. Exposure to mechanical parts, airborne particles, and factory noise during site visits. Willingness to work in both office and production environments for extended periods of time.

Relocation package available

Relocation Package Available

Equal opportunity & diversity statement

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.

Benefits & development

• Smithfield is proud to offer robust, flexible and affordable benefit plans and programs to support our team members and their loved ones, and with out‑of‑pocket costs, on average, 20 percent less than plans offered by other employers.
• Beyond our medical plans, our Be Well programs offer tools and resources to enhance your quality of life, at no additional cost. These programs are uniquely tailored to our Smithfield team and provide support for elective surgeries, weight loss, mental health, cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, smoking cessation, asthma, maternity management and more.
• Our company invests in your future. We offer comprehensive training and professional development programs designed to help you reach your full potential. Through LinkedIn Learning, employees can access on‑demand courses, professional certificates, and skill‑based training to build capabilities aligned with career and business needs.
• Our partnership with Guild supports your continuing education with tuition assistance covering English language learning, high school completion, and degree programs, while our leadership development initiatives nurture high‑potential talent.
• We also offer unique benefits like our Smithfield Scholarship Program for employees’ children.

Company overview

Headquartered in Smithfield, Virginia, since 1936, Smithfield Foods, Inc. is an American food company with a leading position in packaged meats and fresh pork products. With a diverse brand portfolio and strong relationships with U.S. farmers and customers, we responsibly meet demand for quality protein around the world. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com. We believe in the power of protein to end food insecurity and have donated hundreds of millions of food servings to our communities. Smithfield boasts a portfolio of high‑quality iconic brands, such as Smithfield®, Eckrich® and Nathan’s Famous®, among many others. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com and connect with us on Facebook, X, formerly known as Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.