Plant Engineering Manager

We are working with a rapidly growing manufacturer in Central New York that is seeking a skilled and hands-on Plant Engineering Manager to oversee essential systems, including mechanical, electrical, refrigeration, packaging, and utilities. This role involves managing installations, optimizing existing systems, and ensuring seamless operations through effective troubleshooting and maintenance. The Plant Engineering Manager will work closely with leadership to align operational performance with broader organizational goals and support ongoing growth and efficiency.

Location: Central New York State

Job Responsibilities:

• Develop and enforce corporate engineering policies, standards, and procedures at the plant level.
• Partner with Plant Operations to create a cost-effective work environment by participating in operations meetings and assisting with troubleshooting manufacturing and facility systems.
• Recommend and implement process improvements to reduce shrink, downtime, and inefficiencies.
• Coordinate and direct projects by creating detailed plans and managing technical integrations.
• Support the growth of the engineering staff through training, coaching, and skill development.
• Establish evaluation criteria to measure the effectiveness and progress of departmental operations.
• Oversee vendor relationships, including technical management of plant projects and equipment purchases, as well as reviewing quotes for plant upgrades and new initiatives.
• Work closely with Corporate Engineering on current and future projects.
• Ensure all machinery and processes meet regulatory compliance standards and promote a safe work environment.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance processes, quality, and cost efficiency while maintaining competitiveness.
• Assist the Maintenance Manager in building a skilled maintenance team and resolving breakdown situations to improve long-term troubleshooting capabilities.
• Review, approve, and recommend changes to plant equipment, procedures, or practices to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Analyze plant performance metrics to identify opportunities for future improvements.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of mechanical systems and technologies to strengthen advisory capacity.

Required Skills/Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in food or beverage manufacturing.
• At least 3 years in management or technical leadership role.
• Proficient in CAD systems, Supervisory Control Systems, Ladder Logic, and relevant industry programs.
• Advanced knowledge of engineering principles and practices, including scientific problem-solving methods.
• Competency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access, Project).
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and project management capabilities.
• Proven experience in cost analysis and process design.
• Must be able to work in environments with varying temperatures.
• Potential exposure to ingredients used in food manufacturing, including allergens.
• May encounter chemicals commonly used in food processing and distribution facilities.
• Ability to navigate all facility areas, including office spaces, warehouse areas, and the exterior perimeter.
• Must wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) when necessary to safely perform job duties.
• Ability to stand, sit, and carry out tasks throughout a full shift, with appropriate meal breaks.
• Physically capable of standing, bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, twisting, lifting, pushing, pulling, climbing, balancing, and crouching as needed.
• Able to lift and move items weighing up to 50 pounds independently and heavier objects with reasonable accommodation.
• Visual acuity is sufficient to perform job duties accurately.
• Capable of assessing weights, judging distances, and working at various heights.
• Flexible to meet the needs of a 24/7-365-day operation.