Strategic Project Engineering Manager

Smithfield Foods; Crete (NE); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation Package Available

Job summary

Smithfield Foods is seeking a Strategic Project Manager in Crete, Nebraska to lead automation projects in the pork industry. This role involves managing vendor relationships and executing engineering projects efficiently with a focus on innovation.

The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of engineering experience and a leadership background. Benefits include a relocation package and an inclusive work environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of relevant experience in engineering or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in leadership and team management.
• Knowledge of engineering economics and construction scheduling.

Responsibilities

• Develop designs and specifications and prepare cost estimates.
• Coordinate vendor and contractor execution and manage schedules.
• Conduct engineering planning and operational reviews.

Skills

Engineering principles application

Leadership

Project Management

Contract administration

AutoCAD proficiency

Microsoft Excel

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

AutoCAD

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Smithfield is looking for a Strategic Project Manager to lead cutting‑edge automation projects in the pork industry. The role involves collaborating with business partners and cross‑functional teams to translate automation needs into innovative solutions.

Responsibilities

• Design Work: Develop preliminary designs and specifications, prepare cost estimates, conduct feasibility studies, and produce as‑built drawings. Review engineering projects for accuracy, manage vendor and contractor execution, and coordinate schedules with plant personnel.
• Design Implementation: Coordinate equipment vendors for layout planning and utility requirements, review consultant work products, and maintain comprehensive documentation of equipment manuals, drawings, parts lists, and specifications.
• Reports and Proposals: Conduct engineering planning and operational reviews during pre‑project studies, prepare requests for proposals, evaluate proposals, and submit detailed reports to management on progress and key developments.
• Review of Bids and Project Preparation: Administer contracts, review bid packages for compliance, prepare project justification documents, budgets, calculations, plans, and schedules, monitor installations against specifications and budgets, and maintain financial control throughout the project lifecycle.
• People Management: Provide leadership to drive a positive employee experience, focusing on employee development and coaching.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related field with 5+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent education/experience).
• 2+ years of leadership experience in team development and management.
• Application of sound engineering principles to operational and design issues.
• Knowledge of installation and construction project scheduling.
• Project Management skills, contract administration skills, and interpretation of national codes and standards.
• Proficiency in engineering economics, AutoCAD, Microsoft Excel, Word, and other Office products.
• Ability to collaborate across locations with travel up to 50% of the time.

Other Skills That Make You Stand Out

• Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry.
• Experience managing multi‑million dollar projects with large scopes.
• Ability to work well in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
• Respectful, approachable, team‑oriented, with strong interpersonal relationships.
• Excellent written and oral communication, organizational planning, teamwork, analytical reasoning, and adaptability.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Mostly office setting; plant environment includes wet/humid conditions, extreme temperatures, mechanical hazards, fumes, and chemicals.
• Moderate noise level, can become loud near production area.
• Requires close and distance vision, ability to adjust focus.
• Frequently required to sit, use hands, and talk or hear.

Benefits

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, veteran status, disability status, or any other protected group status as required by law.

Individuals with a disability who need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process may contact the company for assistance.