Head of Operations Engineering - Beverage Manufacturing

Job Description
Posting

Title:

Head of Operations Engineering - Beverage Manufacturing

Job Type: Full-Time

Location:

Morgantown, WV - Onsite

Workplace Type:
On-site

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level

Experience

Required:

10+ Years

Education Level: Bachelor's Degree (Engineering discipline)

Job Function:
Engineering / Operations Leadership

Industry: Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Compensation: $141,000 - $180,000 per year

Relocation Assistance:
No

Visa Sponsorship:
No

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Head of Operations Engineering to lead engineering operations for our aseptic beverage manufacturing facility. This leadership role is responsible for driving operational excellence, optimizing processes, and overseeing complex projects including facility improvements, expansions, and new equipment installations.

You will collaborate closely with Maintenance, EH&S, Process, Controls, and Reliability Engineering teams to ensure seamless production support while reducing downtime, improving efficiency, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of engineering operations, including process development, systems implementation, and resource allocation.
• Monitor KPIs and performance metrics to identify areas for continuous improvement.
• Manage capital budgets (Cap Ex), training budgets, and consulting resources.
• Oversee engineering design, equipment specifications, and drawing controls.
• Manage the CMMS (Upkeep) to track and communicate all engineering and maintenance activities.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies to enhance processes and system performance.
• Build and maintain vendor relationships to stay informed on industry advancements.
• Oversee all new equipment contracts to ensure accuracy of scope and deliverables.
• Partner with Production and Technical Integration teams to align engineering projects with production schedules and downtime planning.
• Identify resource gaps and lead cross-training initiatives to optimize team performance.
• Support EH&S programs, procedures, and safety signoffs, including LOTO and startup/shutdown processes.
• Establish and enforce engineering policies, practices, and standards to ensure safe and compliant operations.
• Drive cost savings and efficiency improvements through process assessments and optimizations.
• Maintain compliance with SQF and food safety standards.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the Engineering team, including recruiting, training, and performance management.
• Assign work based on expertise, capacity, and operational priorities.
• Develop a high-performing, cross-functional team culture.

Requirements

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial, Chemical, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering required.
• MBA preferred.

Experience:

• 10+ years of progressive engineering experience in manufacturing environments.
• 5-7 years of experience managing capital projects, budgets, and timelines.
• Prior experience in food or beverage manufacturing highly preferred.
• Experience with low-acid aseptic manufacturing and packaging a strong plus.
• Knowledge of FDA, PMO design requirements, and Good Manufacturing Practices preferred.

Technical

Skills:

• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Project, AutoCAD, ERP/CRM systems, and MES systems.
• Ability to read, understand, and create P&.
• Strong background in process mapping, scheduling, and planning around production downtimes.
• Excellent troubleshooting, analytical, and project management skills.

Soft Skills:

• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Highly organized with attention to detail and a continuous improvement mindset.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit at a computer for extended periods.
• Occasionally lift up to 15 lbs.
• Work with equipment containing electromagnetic components.

Benefits

Why Join Us

This is a highly visible leadership role offering the opportunity to make a direct impact on operational excellence and innovation within a growing beverage manufacturing environment. If you are passionate about driving efficiency, leading high-performing teams, and delivering results, we encourage you to apply.

Lead engineering operations, manage capital projects and budgets, streamline processes to reduce downtime, ensure compliance with food safety standards, mentor and grow the engineering team.