Production Engineer

Heartland Food Products Group; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Heartland Food Products Group is seeking a Production Engineer in Indianapolis, Indiana. You will manage production operations, drive improvements in equipment reliability, and ensure adherence to safety and quality standards. Candidates should have a BS in Engineering, preferably Mechanical or Chemical, and experience in a high-speed food-grade environment. Strong leadership and technical skills are essential, along with the ability to work on 2nd or 3rd shifts. This dynamic role offers opportunities for problem-solving and process enhancement.

Qualifications

• BS in Engineering required; Mechanical or Chemical Engineer preferred.
• Experience in a food grade environment (FDA, GMPs, HACCP) with high-speed packaging equipment preferred.
• Comfortability working 2nd or 3rd shift required.

Responsibilities

• Drive the day to day operations of the production line.
• Participate in troubleshooting and solving problems with existing equipment.
• Ensure a safe working environment by following safety rules.

Skills

Detail oriented

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

Strong leadership and coaching skills

Solid computer skills

Education

BS in Engineering

Preferred Mechanical or Chemical Engineer

Tools

Microsoft Office

CAD programs

Job description

Scope

The Production Engineer is a key developmental position focused on building a hands-on technical understanding of equipment operation, process control, and Heartland ways of working. Responsible for equipment operation and basic maintenance to drive improvement in equipment reliability and overall line performance. Will be involved in all trouble-shooting, problem solving, and improvement projects on the line. Acts as a leader and partners closely with Operations Teammates, Quality and Engineering to help with a range of activities designed to achieve uncompromising levels of safety, quality and cleanliness.

Essential Duties and Key Responsibilities

• Operate the Production Line with an ownership mentality focused on improving performance, reducing waste, and improving quality.
• Drive the day to day operations of the production line.
• Provide feedback on the training/certification program of manufacturing personnel.
• Participate in troubleshooting and solving problems with existing equipment/processes/products.
• Improve, modify and upgrade processes to reduce costs and enhance quality to meet customer satisfaction. Identify methods to reduce variation in the processes.
• Make recommendations and implement improvements in product quality.
• Ensure a safe working environment by following safety rules and ensuring the safety culture.
• Conducts food safety and defense self-inspections and acts on deficiencies.
• Develop a strong technical understanding of mechanical equipment used in a manufacturing environment (drives, motors, sensors, pumps, valves, etc.).
• Assist with equipment maintenance and repair services and make sure that manufacturer’s procedures and instructions are followed in order to keep production equipment operating at OEM specifications.
• Assist in development and improvement of Standard Operating Procedures for all processes.
• Understand process and process equipment specifications, processing methods and procedures that are critical to line performance.
• Maintain effective communication with all persons involved with or affected by assigned responsibilities.
• Provide technical expertise and support related to manufacturing.
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• BS in Engineering required; Mechanical or Chemical Engineer preferred
• Will consider students prior to graduation.
• Experience managing people and projects preferred.
• Experience in a food grade environment (FDA, GMPs, HACCP) with high speed packaging equipment preferred.
• Experience working with equipment installation and automation is a plus
• Detail oriented
• Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic environment
• Strong ability to coach, lead and direct engineering and maintenance staff
• Solid computer skills; Microsoft Office and CAD programs
• Comfortability working 2nd or 3rd shift required

Physical Demands

• Must be able to physically perform the functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions
• Must be able to work standing for long periods of time.
• Must be able to work daily overtime and an occasional weekend
• Must possess visual acuity to document company records