Project Engineering Manager - Relocation

Smithfield Foods; Grayson (KY); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Smithfield Foods is looking for an Engineering professional to optimize production processes while maximizing efficiency. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or a related field, along with 5+ years of relevant experience and at least 2 years in a leadership role. Responsibilities include managing engineering designs and project implementations, partnering with vendors, and conducting project planning. Strong proficiency in AutoCAD and excellent communication skills are essential. This role requires travel to various locations up to 50% of the time.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field and 5+ years of relevant experience.
• 2+ years in a leadership role including team development.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and Microsoft Office is required.

Responsibilities

• Develop engineering designs and specifications.
• Partner with vendors for project planning.
• Conduct planning and provide management with project updates.
• Manage bid package reviews and contracts.
• Drive employee development and team collaboration.

Skills

Engineering principles application

Team development and management

Communication skills

Project Management skills

AutoCAD proficiency

Microsoft Office proficiency

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

AutoCAD

Microsoft Office

Job description

THE VALUE YOU'LL BRING:

Join our Engineering team and become a driving force in transforming production processes to maximize efficiency and minimize waste – directly impacting our bottom line and keeping us at the cutting edge of the industry. You’ll analyze data, draft strategic implementation plans, and tackle challenges head‑on to optimize operations while playing a key role in manufacturing our iconic brands such as Smithfield, Eckrich, Nathan's Famous, and more.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

• Design Work: Develop engineering designs, material specifications, and project cost estimates; conduct feasibility studies and economic analysis to support designs; ensure designs meet required standards and codes; validate field work and create as‑built drawings; review engineering submissions for accuracy and completeness; manage project execution by directing vendors and contractors; coordinate project schedules with plant personnel, vendors, and contractors; collaborate with management and engineering teams to implement plans.
• Design Implementation: Partner with vendors and contractors to plan layouts and meet utility requirements; review consultant work, recommend adjustments, and maintain documentation such as manuals, drawings, specs, etc., and vendor contacts.
• Reports and Proposals: Conduct planning and reviews during pre‑project phases; define scope of work, prepare and evaluate proposals; submit regular reports to management on project status.
• Bid Review and Project Preparation: Manage contract administration and bid package reviews; prepare project documents (budget analyses, plans, schedules, etc.); monitor installations to ensure they meet specifications and stay within budget.
• People Management: Drive a positive employee experience through leadership by way of employee development and coaching.

WHAT WE'RE SEEKING:

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited four‑year college or university in Engineering or a related field and 5+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 2+ years of experience in a position of leadership that includes team development and management.
• Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues.
• Knowledge of installation and construction project scheduling.
• Project Management skills; contract administration skills; national codes and standards interpretation skills.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, organizational planning, teamwork, analytical reasoning, and adaptability.
• Enthusiastic about collaboration and willing to travel to other locations (≈50% of the time).

OTHER SKILLS THAT MAKE YOU STAND OUT

• Ability to work well with others in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
• Respectful, approachable, and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.
• Proficient in engineering economics.
• Previous experience managing multi‑million‑dollar projects with large scopes (desirable).
• Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry (preferred).

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• The majority of the time is spent in an office setting outside of the production plant; the plant environment will include wet or humid conditions (non‑weather related), extreme cold and heat (non‑weather related), working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and chemicals.
• Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be loud when in the production area.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision and distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.
• Frequently required to sit, use hands, and talk or hear.

EEO Information

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 veteran 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.