Job Description

Heartland Food Products Group is a global leader in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry, producing low-calorie sweeteners, coffee, coffee creamers and liquid water enhancers. We manufacture and market Splenda, the #1 brand in the low calorie sweetener category and the most recognized in the world.

We make coffee, tea and water taste better and help people live happier, healthier and longer lives by making it easy to reduce sugar.

We offer an excellent compensation and benefits package. Come grow with us!

Scope:

The Engineering & Maintenance Manager – Plant Engineering leads the development and execution of technical initiatives for the factory. This Individual manages all aspects of technology including process engineering, equipment reliability, automation, controls, project management, technical training, and equipment design.

Essential Duties and Key Responsibilities:

• Responsible for the management and strategic direction of the Plant Engineering department.
• Primary responsibility for tracking and driving improvement in overall line reliability and performance.
• Define, propose, and monitor the implementation of the company’s engineering, maintenance, automation and technology plans and objectives including the development and deployment of the Company’s Engineering Manual and Standards.
• Implement work processes and procedures related to engineering and technical services.
• Ensure the engineering and maintenance department operates with clear and open communications. Key technical resources for the issue escalation process.
• Train, develop and mentor engineering and technical employees to ensure future growth objectives can be accomplished. Includes trouble-shooting, root cause analysis, continuous improvement, project management, and presentation skills.
• Develop and execute a succession plan for the Engineering and Maintenance teams to ensure long term viability and success.
• Promote networking and benchmarking to achieve best-in-class performance.
• Protect proprietary technology through approved and certified relationships with third parties.
• Support and recommend new technologies that improve the overall operations, recommend and develop automation where appropriate.
• Key contributor when evaluating potential acquisitions, expansions and new technology introductions to the company.
• Manage all outsourced contractors as needed and all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• BS Degree in Engineering. An MBA or Master of Engineering Management is a plus.
• 10-15 years of progressive and diversified “Engineering and Maintenance Management” with minimum of 5 years’ experience in food and beverage manufacturing.
• Strong experience in Continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, maintenance programs, equipment installation, and automation.
• Interpersonal skills and track record of teamwork, leadership, adaptability, coaching, and taking initiative.
• Ability to read electrical schematics, P&ID, construction drawings, and other related work documents.
• Familiar with preventative maintenance program management, GMP’s and SOP’s
• Prior maintenance management experience a plus
• Prior experience with Project Management and Tracking software/tools
• Experience installing new lines/equipment and/or new plant start-up a plus
• Experience with high speed packaging equipment required.
• Aseptic experience highly preferred.
• Detailed oriented and have prior P&L and budget management experience
• Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic environment
• Possess visual acuity to document company records

Physical Demands:

• Must be able to physically perform the functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions
• Must be able to work seated using a computer and phone for long periods of time.
• Must be able to work extended hours, such as daily overtime and an occasional weekend
• Must possess visual acuity to document company records
• Continuous walking throughout plant and distribution center.
• Lifting up to 40 pounds