Senior Process Improvement Engineer

Smithfield Foods; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation package available

Job summary

Smithfield Foods in Nashville is seeking a Senior Process Improvement Engineer to lead high-impact manufacturing initiatives, improve product quality, and raise safety standards across multiple facilities.

You will apply lean methods, Kaizen, and Value Stream Mapping to optimize processes, manage projects, and drive cost reductions while collaborating with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, and Supply Chain. Strong data analysis, SOP development, and training abilities are expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering and 5+ years of manufacturing/industrial engineering experience.
• Experience leading CI or lean initiatives across multiple departments or facilities.

Responsibilities

• Process optimization and engineering support to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Lead lean initiatives (Kaizen, 5S, A3, Value Stream Mapping) to drive continuous improvement.
• Manage multiple engineering projects from concept to implementation with budget and timeline focus.
• Perform data analysis and develop performance tracking systems.
• Develop SOPs, labor standards, and production measurement systems.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, and Supply Chain.
• Train plant personnel and leaders on process optimization practices.
• Support compliance, governance, and quality assurance activities.
• Research and implement technologies to boost efficiency and sustainability.

Skills

Analytical skills

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Self-motivated

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Tools

SAP

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Office

Job description

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub. Have a seat at our table. 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 Senior Process Improvement Engineer, you will spearhead high-impact initiatives that transform manufacturing operations, enhance product quality, and elevate safety standards across multiple facilities. With a focus on advanced engineering techniques and lean methodologies, you'll lead cross‑functional efforts to optimize systems, streamline workflows, and drive sustainable cost reduction. Your work will directly influence productivity, throughput, and profitability while championing a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, 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 Engineering Support: You will analyze and improve plant processes to increase operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality by conducting time studies, capacity analyses, and risk assessments. You will also recommend and implement engineering solutions, layout changes, and equipment upgrades while identifying lean waste elimination opportunities to optimize production performance.
• Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement Leadership: You will lead and facilitate lean initiatives - including Kaizen, 5S, A3 problem solving, and Value Stream Mapping - to drive continuous improvement across operations. You will serve as a change agent, implementing standardized and sustainable solutions that enhance efficiency and foster a culture of operational excellence.
• Project and Program Management: You will lead multiple engineering and continuous improvement projects from initial concept through successful implementation, ensuring each initiative delivers operational value. You will also manage project execution with a strong focus on meeting budget, timeline, and performance objectives.
• Data Analysis and Performance Systems: You will conduct root cause analysis, process mapping, and advanced data collection to uncover opportunities for operational improvement. You will also design and develop systems that enable accurate productivity tracking and support ongoing performance optimization efforts.
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and Business Systems: You will develop and maintain standard operating procedures, labor standards, and production measurement systems to ensure consistent and efficient operations. You will also enhance management tools that support cost analysis, financial planning, and job evaluation, enabling data‑driven decisions across the organization.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: You will collaborate with teams across Operations, Quality, Maintenance, and Supply Chain to align initiatives and drive cohesive improvements. You will also support process validation and the successful installation of new equipment to ensure efficiency and compliance from day one.
• Training and Capability Building: You will facilitate training workshops and coach plant personnel and leaders on best practices in process optimization.
• Compliance, Governance, and Quality Assurance: You will conduct internal audits and evaluations to ensure regulatory and policy adherence.
• Technology Innovation and Sustainability: You will research and implement emerging technologies that boost operational efficiency and support long-term sustainability goals. You will also lead technical advancements that drive measurable improvements in product quality and manufacturing performance.

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 (Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical, or related field) and 5+ years of relevant experience in manufacturing engineering, continuous improvement, or industrial engineering; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
• Demonstrated experience leading CI or lean manufacturing initiatives across multiple departments or facilities.

OTHER SKILLS THAT MAKE YOU STAND OUT

• Strong analytical, planning, and project management skills with a track record of results.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; advanced Excel knowledge required. SAP experience preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to engage across all levels of the organization.
• Experience with Lean Six Sigma tools (certification preferred).
• Self‑motivated and capable of working independently with a high degree of accountability.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting (up to 50 pounds).
• Work in manufacturing environments with exposure to varying temperatures, mechanical equipment, and noise for extended periods of time.
• Some projects may involve navigating uneven terrain during site visits.

Relocation package available.

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 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.