Plant Engineer

SUMMARY

The Plant Engineer serves as the site‑level engineering lead, responsible for process optimization, equipment reliability, and capital project execution. This role combines hands‑on technical support with process engineering expertise to ensure consistent, compliant, and efficient operations. The Plant Engineer will develop and implement process strategies, optimize production systems, and collaborate cross‑functionally to support the company’s operational and digital transformation goals.

This position requires strong analytical skills, technical curiosity, and a proactive problem‑solving mindset. It is a highly visible, floor‑focused engineering role central to maintaining GMP compliance under 21 CFR Part 111, ensuring safety, and driving continuous improvement initiatives across the site.

• Develop and optimize manufacturing and packaging processes to improve throughput, quality, and reliability.
• Conduct process simulations, design calculations, and equipment sizing/selection for new or modified systems.
• Create and maintain detailed process documentation including PFDs, P&IDs, functional narratives, safe operating limits, and shutdown philosophies.
• Support validation activities, including IQ/OQ/PQ documentation, test plans, and equipment commissioning.
• Partner with QA and Production to ensure change controls, deviations, and process modifications comply with GMP and internal quality systems.

• Support the execution of capital projects at the site by collaborating on project scoping, justification, design, and implementation.
• Develop and maintain project schedules, budgets, and resource plans.
• Coordinate with vendors, contractors, and internal stakeholders to ensure timely and compliant project delivery.
• Support process safety reviews and risk assessments to ensure design and operational safety.
• Prepare and deliver engineering design reviews and project updates to management.

• Partner with the site resources to standardize PM programs, equipment care, and reliability strategies across facilities.
• Provide engineering support for troubleshooting chronic process or equipment issues.
• Identify and execute reliability improvements and root cause corrective actions (RCCA).
• Support the implementation of predictive maintenance technologies and data‑driven performance tracking.

• Work closely with Production, Quality, IT/OT, and Facilities to ensure process and equipment alignment with company standards.
• Participate in GEMBA and Tier meetings to address daily performance, identify bottlenecks, and drive corrective actions.
• Provide technical mentorship and training to production and maintenance teams.
• Support digital manufacturing initiatives, data collection, and process visibility efforts in partnership with the OT leadership.

• Ensure adherence to safety, food safety, environmental, and GMP regulations as outlined under 21 CFR Part 111.
• Maintain and document compliance with engineering, sanitation, and quality system procedures.
• Lead and support audits, investigations, and regulatory inspections as required.
• Drive continuous improvement through lean manufacturing and risk mitigation practices.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Chemical, or Manufacturing Engineering (or related field).
• 3–5 years of experience in a food, beverage, or dietary supplement manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience in process and project support within a GMP‑regulated facility.
• Demonstrated success collaborating on capital projects and coordinating vendor/contractor activities.
• Strong understanding of packaging and filling operations preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and CAD software; experience with CMMS preferred.
• Strong data analysis, problem‑solving, and documentation skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to influence cross‑functional teams.
• Highly organized, detail‑oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities independently.
• Travel up to 15% between facilities as required.

• Strategic and analytical…