Technical Resources Engineer

At Aurora Organic Dairy, we believe it is our obligation to care for our animals, respect our people, and improve the health of the planet for the future. This entry-level Technical Resource Engineer position provides hands-on experience supporting technical operations, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives across the organization. We are very excited about our new opening within our Technical Resource group at our State-of-the-Art facility in Columbia, MO.

Purpose:

The Technical Resources Engineer I will be responsible for assisting with company growth, developing equipment selection criteria, working with operations teams to select proper equipment to meet AOD’s growth needs. This person will work closely with Engineering teams to develop and expand buildings, gather data to assist with design of buildings, and efficiently install equipment to provide optimal output. Finally, the Technical Resources Engineer I is responsible for executing the installation, commissioning, validation, handover, and closeout phases of projects. 

Essential Responsibilities:

• Ability to learn and understand regulatory requirements for dairy processing.
• Ability to learn and understand thermal processing.
• Analyze and help select vendors based on company needs.
• Ability to draft RFP (Request For Proposal) and Requirement Documents.
• Assist in development of company standards for equipment, construction material, and processes.
• Assist with equipment and vendor selection to provide continued growth for AOD.
• Knowledge of line layout and line optimization
• Participates in developing and implementing companywide growth and other budgeted projects.
• Maintains budget and timeline for full project implementation
• Research new technologies and solutions needed to support AOD growth plans
• Coordinates vendors, contractors and internal teams to complete project on time and within budget
• Coordinates bid packages for Electrical and Mechanical installation of new equipment.
• Incorporate any and all Quality approval and validation into project plan prior to implementation.
• Work with equipment suppliers and contractors to provide commissioning and training plans.
• Routine review and analysis of completed projects to determine if expected ROI was met.
• All plant personnel have the responsibility to monitor and report any deviations from our Food Safety and Food Quality (HACCP & SQF) programs to your immediate supervisor.
  • Support the Technical Resource Manager during project implementation.
  • SQF Support – Responsible for development, training, implementation and compliance to the SQF program.
• This position includes an extensive learning period during the first year, providing the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of plant operations, production systems, equipment, and Aurora Organic Dairy’s operational standards and culture.

Other Required Responsibilities:

• Plant operations are 24/7 – some tasks may require attention during outside of regular work hours.
• Coordinate projects and repair activities within all departments.
• Provide back-up support for the Technical Resource Manager.
• Available for scheduled and non-scheduled travel. 

Knowledge & Experience:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Technical Interpretation: Ability to read and understand construction plans.
• Design Software: Knowledge of AutoCAD and 3D modeling tools such as Navisworks or Revizto.
• Data Tools: Experience with data analysis tools, including Excel; ERP or BI tools are a plus.
• Communication: Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively across functions.
• Collaboration: Experience working with cross-functional teams in a dynamic environment.
• 0-2 years' experience in the following preferred: 
• Process Optimization: Knowledge of production line and product flow optimization.
• Capacity Planning: Familiarity with capacity analysis.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to work for extended periods in an office environment as well as spending their entire day on the plant floor. 
• Requires regular walking, climbing, bending, and stooping, as well as the ability to work in varying environments, including outdoor conditions and refrigerated indoor areas.
• Lifting up to 50lbs at times. 
• Able to travel via automobile or airline.