The Director of Engineering leads and oversees the engineering department with responsibility for all engineering activities at our three manufacturing sites in Yuba City, CA, Fleetwood, PA, and Santa Cruz, Chile. Responsible for strategic leadership and development of the five-year engineering capital plan as well as execution of the plan. Oversees development and execution of maintenance plans for utility systems and critical infrastructure at all sites (boilers, compressed air systems, wastewater, electrical distribution, and buildings). This position reports to the VP, Operations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other related duties may be required and assigned.

1. Manages and directs the Engineering Department staff. Sets clear goals aligned with Company’s values and objectives.
2. Develops the five-year engineering master plan and annual capital budget for all manufacturing sites to meet company objectives resulting in margin improvement.
3. Drives innovation by identifying and implementing new technologies, processes, and equipment to improve quality, efficiency, and safety.
4. Identifies opportunities to support sustainability initiatives.
5. Oversees critical utility infrastructure at all sites such as boilers, compressed air systems, wastewater systems, and electrical distribution systems. Ensures robust maintenance plans exist at all sites and are appropriately executed upon. Performs risk assessments at all sites and develops appropriate plans to correct or mitigate risk.
6. Oversees all capital projects to ensure they are delivered on time and within budget.
7. Ensures projects meet specific operating objectives.
8. Works cross-functionally with finance to integrate engineering master plan into Company strategic plan and financial forecast.
9. Works cross-functionally with marketing/sales to understand changing market conditions and packaging requirements that will affect engineering master plan.
10. This position will work closely with Plant Managers, engineers, equipment vendors, and construction companies to ensure projects are successful according to project objectives.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge/Skills: 

• Fluent in Spanish a plus but not required.
• Intermediate skill level or better with AutoCAD.
• Advanced knowledge and understanding of manufacturing plant utilities, including electrical power, natural gas, water, steam, compressed air, wastewater, and air emissions systems.
• Strong project management experience; PMP certification is a plus.

Ability to: 

• Ability and willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, according to work demand.
• Travel ± 15% including international.

Education and Experience: 

• CPG food or beverage manufacturing experience.
• Bachelor's degree required (Engineering preferred).
• 15 years’ experience in engineering management, project management, plant engineering, etc.
• Electrical engineering and controls experience.
• Demonstrated experience and understanding of plant utility systems.

Physical/Safety Requirements: 

• Tolerate extended periods of sitting at desk.
• Ambient noise is louder than a traditional office setting.