Director, Engineering

Overview

Smithfield Foods is a leading producer of packaged meats and fresh pork products. We seek a Director of Engineering to lead engineering operations, drive efficiency, and support our brand portfolio, including Smithfield, Eckrich, and Nathan’s Famous.

The Director of Engineering will analyze data, develop and implement strategic plans to optimize production processes, manage engineering resources, and lead cross‑functional teams to achieve world‑class performance.

• Lead engineering teams across multiple disciplines and plants to ensure optimal performance.
• Collaborate with Operations, HR, Safety, and other functions to achieve company goals.
• Oversee and manage capital and maintenance budgets, project planning, and execution.
• Create and implement short‑ and long‑term operational plans aligned with customer and quality standards.
• Analyze asset age and utilization data, develop replacement timing models, and recommend strategies to increase asset longevity.
• Develop and enforce best practices for engineering development and enforce compliance with internal and external standards.
• Lead, coach, and develop a high‑performing engineering workforce; partner with HR on leadership programs and performance management.
• Promote a culture of safety, open communication, empowerment, and recognition.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four‑year college or university in Engineering, Business, or a related field, and 10+ years of relevant engineering management experience (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• 5+ years of leadership experience, including team development and management.
• Prior experience as an engineer.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and SAP.
• Strong critical thinking, problem‑solving, analytical reasoning, and organizational planning skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts to non‑technical audiences.
• Strong interpersonal, technical, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment and to collaborate across locations (travel up to 50% of the time).

• Professional Engineer licensure (preferred).
• Knowledge of pork products and the meat industry (preferred).

The majority of the time is spent in an office setting outside of the production plant. The work environment may include wet or humid conditions, extreme cold and heat, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, chemicals, and moderate to loud noise levels. Employees must be able to sit for extended periods, occasionally lift up to 25 lbs, and perform tasks requiring reach, walking, and standing.

Travel as needed.

Smithfield is an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veteran status, disability, or any other protected group characteristic. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please call 757‑357‑1595.