Engineering Project Manager

Job Summary:

As an Engineering Project Manager, you will provide planning, execution, and delivery services to engineering projects across various technical domains. You will work closely with Mechanical, Electrical, and Controls Engineers to coordinate the design, procurement, installation, and optimization of production equipment and systems. Your role will focus on cross-functional project direction, continuous improvement, and help to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in accordance with performance and safety standards.

Location:

The Engineering Project Manager will support our Top Fox business in Congerville, IL.

Key Responsibilities:

• Equipment & Systems Engineering:

• Coordinate the design, specification, installation, and commissioning of new food processing equipment and systems.

• Apply sanitary design principles and food safety requirements in all engineering activities.

• Evaluate and improve existing manufacturing lines for performance, reliability, and compliance.

• Project Management:

• Prepare plans and help coordinate capital projects from concept through execution, including vendor evaluation, procurement, budget control, and startup.

• Prepare and maintain detailed project documentation including process flow diagrams, schedules, and risk assessments.

• Process Optimization:

• Analyze production processes and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements, waste reduction, and cost savings.

• Collaborate with operations, quality, and maintenance teams to implement lean manufacturing initiatives and continuous improvement projects.

• Automation & Controls:

• Work closely with Controls Engineers and vendors to support the integration and troubleshooting of automation systems (PLCs, HMIs, SCADA).

• Ensure seamless equipment and system communication across plant operations.

• Compliance & Safety:

• Ensure adherence to FDA, USDA, and food safety standards including GMP, HACCP, and SQF.

• Maintain a strong focus on employee and food safety in all engineering work.

• Collaboration & Communication:

• Act as a technical liaison providing coordination between Engineering, Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and external vendors.

• Participate in cross-functional teams to help support innovation and resolve production issues.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering (or related discipline).

• Ability to work independently and with multidisciplinary project teams.

• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.

• Knowledge of GMP, HACCP, and SQF requirements.

• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and root cause analysis techniques.

• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and process flow design.

• Demonstrated experience coordinating capital projects and implementing process improvements.

• Minimum 5 years of experience in a food manufacturing engineering role or related field.