Job Description
Job Description
Plant Engineering Manager
My client, located in the Des Moines, Iowa area, is looking for a Plant Engineering Manager . The Plant Engineering Manager is responsible for leading all engineering, maintenance, and reliability functions at a large food & beverage manufacturing facility. This role ensures equipment, utilities, and infrastructure operate at peak performance while meeting food safety, regulatory, and operational efficiency standards.
Key Responsibilities :
Engineering & Maintenance Leadership
- Lead and develop maintenance and engineering teams to ensure equipment reliability and plant uptime.
- Oversee preventative and predictive maintenance programs, driving continuous improvement in performance and cost efficiency.
Oversee day-to-day maintenance and engineering operations, ensuring the reliability and performance of processing, packaging, and utility systems.
Manage processing and utility systems, including pasteurization, homogenizers, CIP, refrigeration, boilers, and wastewater.Track and improve KPIs related to OEE, downtime, and maintenance costs.Capital Projects & Continuous Improvement
Oversee capital expenditure (CapEx) projects, including facility expansions, equipment upgrades, and automation initiatives.Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) principles.Evaluate and implement new technologies and automation solutions to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.Partner with production, quality, and supply chain teams to resolve technical issues and support plant goals.Manage budgets, vendor contracts, and cost reduction initiatives.Safety, Compliance, & Food Manufacturing Standards
Ensure compliance with FDA, USDA, PMO , SQF, HACCP, GMPs, and OSHA standards.Ensure compliance City, State & Federal Environmental Compliance Reporting (eg. PSM compliance)Drive a culture of safety, ensuring maintenance and engineering teams follow proper procedures and PPE requirements.Budgeting & Cost Control
Develop and manage the engineering and maintenance budget, optimizing costs while maintaining operational excellence.Negotiate contracts with vendors, suppliers, and service providers to ensure cost-effective procurement of equipment and materials.Identify and implement cost reduction strategies, including energy efficiency projects and waste minimization.Qualifications :
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or related engineering field.10+ years in plant engineering, maintenance, or reliability within food & beverage manufacturing.Expertise in processing equipment, refrigeration systems, utilities, and process automation.Strong leadership, problem-solving, and project management skills.Knowledge of Allen-Bradley PLCs and ladder logic troubleshooting.Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.Travel :
50–75% travel for onboarding to start for learning and education of company operationsUp to 25% travel until plant startup; occasional infrequent travel afterward.If you are looking for a stable company that will offer you career advancement and meet the above requirements, please send your resume in Word format to alex@mrbethlehem.com. Interviews are being scheduled NOW.