Plant Engineering Manager

Grow with Welch's

Welch's is on a journey towards our bold ambition of being the global-leader of convenient, good for you fruit-based food and beverages. To turn this goal into a reality we need you and other exceptionally talented, agile, and innovative individuals who are eager to contribute to something extraordinary

At Welch's, we're not just offering a job; we're inviting you to be a part of a vibrant, authentic, and inclusive culture where you not only belong, but also have the opportunity to unleash the best, most authentic version of you.

Position Summary:

We're looking for a Plant Engineering Manager that will be responsible for leading the engineering department, developing/delivering strategic capital, and production support for our North East, PA and Westfield, NY plants.

The Engineering Manager will be a technical leader counted on to drive plant operational goals, design technical strategies for utilities and infrastructure, as well as ensuring plant environmental compliance for various programs.

Where You'll Work

This role will report to the Plant Director and be based out of our North East, PA 24/7 manufacturing facility where you will be immersed in a dynamic workplace where innovation thrives and collaboration is key and key member of the leadership team.

What You'll Do:

• Lead the multiyear capital plan including the engagement of related Plant and Corporate functions such as Safety, Sanitation, Quality, Environmental, Operations, Maintenance, and Finance.
• Prepare plants' annual capital, engineering and startup budgets with supporting cash flow projections.
• Responsible for developing and managing the annual plant Engineering expense budget.
• Manage engineering resources (plant and third party) and plant staff to ensure the capital plan execution.
• Responsible for hiring, performance management, and career development of direct reports.
• Develop training plans for employees to build technical capability and adherence to plant safety and quality goals.
• Direct ownership and management of various Environmental Compliance programs (Wastewater, SPCC, Air Permitting, and Stormwater management) in collaboration with the Environmental, Health, & Safety Manager.
• Direct the environmental activities associated with areas such as air, water, ammonia, and wastewater, to comply with appropriate governmental agencies.
• External interaction will include, however, is not limited to, equipment vendors, construction contractors, engineering services contractors, and local / state / federal government agencies.
• Support the Plant in conducting internal systems and external audits.
• Oversee plant utilities including steam generation, power distribution, electrical power, glycol, ammonia, cooling towers, water, plant HVAC systems, water distribution systems, wastewater, buildings, grounds, and fire suppression, etc.
• Collaborate with corporate and other plant resources in order to leverage continuous improvement thinking in support of Supply Chain Excellence and support various efforts to develop and execute productivity pipeline.
• Drive cost-savings projects and other projects as assigned to accomplish company strategies.
• Ensure that all project planning, deliverables, reporting, cash flow and spending forecasts are managed and that all projects are delivered within cost, schedule, and performance success criteria.
• Provide key capital and engineering updates to senior leadership as required.
• Lead and coach formal risk mitigation efforts (FMEA) on all critical capital projects facility during design, construction and during plant operation; implement mitigation strategies cross-functionally with other project team members.
• Work with cross functional parties at all levels of the organization including marketing, R&D, Finance, IT and Operations, when necessary.
• Support, coach, and work closely with the maintenance and reliability team in a 24/7 operation to ensure asset sustainability, standardization, troubleshooting, and overall best practices are being followed.
• Responsible for the review and approval of equipment purchase orders, contract service orders and plant service agreements.
• Provide overall technical leadership for the North East, PA and Westfield, NY plants.
• Maintain plant engineering library (drawings, functional descriptions, GA's, etc.)

Who You Are:

• Hold safety and quality as a core value.
• Must have a general working knowledge of all site operations; including, but not limited to, processing, packaging, warehousing, chilling, waste treatment and handling, environmental regulations and operations, boiler operations, purchasing, etc. as well as the impact of each of these areas of overall Factory performance.
• You should also have hands-on experience in the food manufacturing industry and a strong understanding of safety, engineering, operations, and related regulatory programs.
• Partner with plant leadership to drive a robust culture of safety & quality based on recognition and accountability.
• Ability to troubleshoot reliability issues in a manufacturing environment in a plant that operates 24/7.
• Participate in the negotiation of utility contracts in line with plant needs.
• This position will require a strategic thinker who possesses a combination of technical acumen, engineering experience, and sound business judgment.
• The successful candidate will have an excellent track record of working closely with teams to develop and implement new and improved processes and procedures.
• Demonstrate exceptional communication and problem-solving skills and will be comfortable working in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.

What You'll Need:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related degree preferred or an equivalent combination of education and experience that proves competence may be considered.
• Eight (8) years of experience in manufacturing with exposure and understanding of environmental compliance with demonstrated project and process management skills and at least 3 years supervisory experience.
• Risk management experience with an ammonia refrigeration system preferred.
• Food Manufacturing in juice processing, pasteurization, blending, and consumer packaging preferred or related industry experience.
• Strong communication (written and verbal), interpersonal skills and negotiation skills required.
• Ability to analyze and problem solve various technical related issues.
• Flexibility with schedule to accommodate off shift and weekend requirements when needed.
• Strategic leadership competencies (execution, people development, accountability, prioritization techniques).
• Maintenance/Reliability experience beneficial
• Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma principles, TPM RCA, CQV, PSM a plus.

At Welch's we value diversity, a passion for what you do, and a commitment to continuous learning. Even if you do not feel you meet every requirement listed, but this role aligns with your strengths and goals we encourage you to apply. Join us and contribute to something extraordinary.

Welch's is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We recognize the importance of diversity in hiring and building a dynamic, strong workforce. We are committed to the prevention of employment discrimination based on race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, disability and/or military or veteran status, sexual orientation or any other action covered by federal or applicable state/local laws.

What You'll Enjoy:

• Organization with a bold, clear purpose & vision for the future
• Inclusive Culture: Be a part of an inclusive workplace where you not only belong but also have the opportunity to be the best version of yourself
• Passionate Community: You are encouraged to have a voice, share your opinions, and have individual impact on the success of the business
• Paid Time Off and Holidays: Available immediately for you to enjoy time away from the office to rest and recharge
• Paid Volunteer Time Off: 40 hours of paid volunteer time for all non-union employees
• Development & Advancement: Access to LinkedIn Learning as well as both formal and informal opportunities to develop and grow your career
• Compensation Package Consisting of Competitive Base Salary and Annual Incentive Plan (Bonus)
• 401K plan with Generous Company Match
• Flexible Benefits from your first day: Choose the benefits that meet your needs and preferences
• Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Accounts
• Life and accident insurance
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Additional benefits available through Perks at Work
• Paid parental (and adoption) leave: Available after 12 months of employment

Welch's offers more than just a job - it's an opportunity to grow, innovate, and make a global impact with a passionate community.