Job Title: Mechanical Engineer
Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer (Food Processing) – Mid-Level to join our engineering team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, optimizing, and maintaining mechanical systems used in food processing plants. You will work with cross-functional teams to ensure the efficiency and reliability of food production systems, from raw material handling to packaging. As a mid-level engineer, you will take on more complex projects, mentor junior engineers, and support process improvements to enhance productivity and quality in food manufacturing.
Key Responsibilities:
Mechanical System Design and Optimization:
- Design and optimize mechanical systems used in food processing, including pumps, mixers, conveyors, refrigeration units, and packaging systems.
- Perform mechanical calculations, system design reviews, and material selections to ensure systems operate efficiently and meet safety, regulatory, and operational standards.
- Use CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, etc.) to create and update mechanical designs, and develop 3D models for food processing systems.
System Maintenance and Troubleshooting:
- Lead the preventive and corrective maintenance of mechanical equipment used in food processing plants to minimize downtime and maintain continuous production.
- Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical issues in food processing equipment, identifying root causes and implementing solutions to prevent recurrence.
- Support the installation and commissioning of new machinery and modifications to existing systems, ensuring they are operating at optimal levels.
Process Improvement and Efficiency:
- Analyze current food processing systems and propose improvements to optimize efficiency, reduce waste, and lower operational costs.
- Implement process changes that improve the reliability, speed, and quality of food production systems.
- Work with production teams to identify bottlenecks, equipment limitations, and areas for improvement in the processing line.
Compliance with Food Safety and Industry Standards:
- Ensure mechanical systems comply with industry standards, including food safety, health regulations, and environmental considerations (e.g., HACCP, FDA standards).
- Lead safety audits and risk assessments of mechanical systems, ensuring compliance with company policies and legal requirements.
- Stay up to date with changes in food safety standards and regulations, implementing necessary changes to the equipment and processes.
Project Management and Coordination:
- Manage mechanical engineering projects from concept through implementation, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to technical specifications.
- Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including production, quality control, procurement, and construction, to integrate mechanical systems into larger food processing operations.
- Assist in preparing project schedules, budgets, and resource planning for engineering projects.
Mentoring and Training:
- Mentor junior engineers and technicians, providing guidance on system design, troubleshooting, and best practices in mechanical engineering.
- Conduct training sessions for staff on new systems, safety protocols, and maintenance procedures.
- Review and provide feedback on design work and project progress from junior engineers.
Documentation and Reporting:
- Maintain comprehensive documentation for all mechanical systems, including design drawings, specifications, maintenance logs, and system performance data.
- Prepare detailed technical reports on mechanical system performance, maintenance activities, and project outcomes.
- Ensure that all changes to mechanical systems and processes are well-documented and communicated to relevant teams.
Key Focus Areas:
Mechanical System Design and Optimization:
- Lead the design and improvement of mechanical systems to ensure the highest level of efficiency and reliability in food processing operations.
Process Improvement and Maintenance:
- Focus on optimizing existing mechanical systems and ensuring effective maintenance practices to prevent downtime.
Food Safety and Regulatory Compliance:
- Ensure that all mechanical designs and systems comply with food safety regulations, industry standards, and operational requirements.
Project Leadership and Mentorship:
- Take responsibility for managing projects and mentoring junior engineers, ensuring the team develops their skills and completes tasks efficiently.
Qualifications and Skills:
Educational Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Food Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
- Additional certifications in food processing systems, mechanical systems, or project management are a plus.
Experience:
- 3-5 years of experience in mechanical engineering, with a focus on food processing or manufacturing environments.
- Experience in designing, optimizing, and maintaining mechanical systems for food production lines and processing facilities.
- Experience in troubleshooting, installation, and commissioning of food processing machinery is preferred.
Skills:
- Strong knowledge of mechanical systems, fluid dynamics, and material science as they relate to food processing systems.
- Proficiency with CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks) and mechanical design tools.
- Knowledge of industry standards related to food safety, machinery safety, and operational compliance (e.g., HACCP, FDA).
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to optimize systems for better performance and cost-efficiency.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with other departments and lead teams.
Certifications (Preferred):
- Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent certification.
- Certification in food safety standards or quality control practices in food manufacturing is a plus.
- OSHA or similar safety certifications.