Our client is seeking an accomplished Operations Director, Engineering, to lead capital planning, engineering execution, and cross-functional technical initiatives across multiple manufacturing sites. This role offers high visibility, beginning with direct reporting to the SVP/Chief Supply Chain Officer. Candidates will play a critical part in advancing strategic engineering priorities, supporting plant operations, and guiding early-career engineering talent.
This position requires strong technical acumen, capital project leadership, and the ability to manage multiple mid-sized projects (typically ≤ $5MM each) within a broader capital program. Experience from either the owner’s side or an engineering firm is welcomed.
What YOU get to DO in this critical role
- Coordinate and manage a $50MM capital budget, including maintaining the master project list, leading prioritization, and communicating timing expectations to manufacturing sites.
- Support Plant Managers and Manufacturing Directors by providing input into annual MRO budgets.
- Contribute to strategic planning efforts and lead engineering initiatives associated with process, product, and operational changes— including collaboration with R&D and corporate strategic project teams.
- Supervise 1–2 manager-level direct reports and support evolving engineering department structure.
- Lead internal and external engineering teams and contractors through project lifecycle phases from concept to handoff.
- Partner with plant operations and corporate functions to drive growth, innovation, quality, safety, environmental, and sustainability initiatives.
- Stay current on regulatory requirements, industry standards, and emerging technologies relevant to food (Dairy) manufacturing.
- Drive consistency by standardizing standards, processes, structures, and design practices across multiple facilities.
- Provide early leadership on high-impact issues, including immediate engagement on major equipment challenges (e.g., current dryer issue requiring year- long replacement timeline).
What you NEED to SUCCEED in this challenging role
- Bachelor’s degree (Engineering preferred)
- 8+ years of relevant experience
- Strong knowledge of food (Dairy) manufacturing principles and practices, including sanitary design, GMPs, food safety, quality, and general manufacturing concepts
- Strong understanding of USDA Dairy and 3A requirements
- Demonstrated ability to lead capital projects from conception through execution, including equipment scoping, bidding, budgeting, and implementation
- Experience working across multiple plants and navigating complex operational environments
- Ability to manage internal teams, external engineering resources, and contractors
- Ability to travel an average of 50%–60% annually; must reside near a major airport
- Strong technical competency with proven ability to troubleshoot, assess plant issues, and drive engineering solutions
What’s in it for YOU?
- Significant early executive exposure due to initial reporting structure.
- Opportunities to influence long-term capital strategy, standards development, and organizational engineering structure.
- Professional growth through leadership of cross-functional projects and technical development initiatives.
- Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, PTO, life & disability coverage, education assistance, 401(k), and well-being resources.