Plant Engineer - Food Manufacturing

Plant Engineer

Location: Commack

Duties and Responsibilities

• Production & Maintenance Support: Collaborate with production and maintenance teams to ensure smooth operations and meet key performance metrics, including safety, quality, and OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).
• Documentation & SOPs: Develop and maintain production documentation, including SOPs, SOCs, and changeover checklists for both new and existing products or processes.
• Equipment Selection & Validation: Assist in selecting and validating new equipment, ensuring it aligns with operational needs and regulatory compliance.
• Process Improvement & Workflow: Identify and implement process improvements through continuous monitoring and maintain workflow documentation for optimal efficiency.
• Project Management: Lead projects from planning through execution, ensuring scope, cost, and schedule are met. Provide detailed scopes of work, cost estimates, and timelines.
• Equipment Design & Engineering: Engineer, specify, and optimize equipment systems to improve product quality, productivity, or reduce costs.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Coordinate with internal departments to balance production schedules, staffing needs, and safety requirements.
• Operational Training Manuals: Develop and maintain training manuals and provide hands-on training for production staff on machinery operations.
• PLC Programming & Troubleshooting: Program, troubleshoot, and manipulate PLCs, with expertise in Allen Bradley systems; familiarity with Beckhoff systems is a plus. Knowledge of programming formats such as Ladder Diagram, Structured Text, Function Block, and Sequential Function Diagram.
• System Integration: Integrate and network multiple machines through Ethernet communication protocols.
• Root Cause Analysis: Troubleshoot production systems under pressure to identify root causes and implement effective solutions.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to FDA, GMP, and food manufacturing regulations and standards.
• Technical Communication: Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineering, operations, and production staff, to meet project and business goals.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field; equivalent work experience will also be considered.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years in a manufacturing environment, with hands-on experience leading projects.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in CAD software, Microsoft Office Suite, and PLC programming tools.
• Safety Commitment: Demonstrated track record of fostering a safe work environment and promoting safe work practices.
• Mechanical Aptitude: Hands-on mechanical experience with tools and equipment.
• Manufacturing Expertise: Strong understanding of key manufacturing metrics such as quality, yield, OEE, and downtime.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Physical Capability: Must be able to perform mechanical tasks and work with tools.
• Mobility: Ability to climb compact stairs, ladders, and crossovers.
• Strength: Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Endurance: Capable of standing or walking for up to 7 hours per day.
• Office Work: Able to sit at a desk and use computers for extended periods.

Qualifications

•Bachelor’s degree in engineering discipline or equivalent experience

•Minimum 5 years of experience taking an active role in projects within a manufacturing environment

•Working knowledge of CAD, Microsoft Office, PLC programming software

•Proven track record of safe work habits and/or promoting a safe workplace

•Proven mechanical experience and working with hands 

•Understands key manufacturing process attributes such as quality, efficiency, OEE, yield, and downtime

Working conditions & Physical Requirements

•Must be able to perform mechanically and able to work with hand and tools

• Must be able to use compact stairs, ladder and crossovers, and able to lift 50lbs

• Must be able to walk/stand for up to 7 hours per day

• Must be able to sit at a desk/chair for up to 7 hours per day