Job Title: Mechanical Engineer 

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Mechanical Engineer (Food Processing) to lead the design, optimization, and maintenance of mechanical systems used in food processing facilities. In this role, you will provide technical leadership, manage complex projects, and ensure that all mechanical systems are designed, implemented, and maintained to meet the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and safety. You will be responsible for mentoring junior engineers, driving continuous improvement in food processing equipment, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. As a senior engineer, you will have a direct impact on the efficiency and success of our food production operations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead Mechanical System Design and Optimization:

   • Take ownership of designing and optimizing mechanical systems for food processing lines, including mixers, conveyors, pumps, heat exchangers, and packaging systems.
   • Lead the development of piping and mechanical layouts, ensuring designs meet the highest standards of efficiency, safety, and functionality.
   • Conduct advanced engineering calculations for mechanical systems, including fluid flow, pressure drop, thermal analysis, and mechanical stress analysis.
   • Implement modifications and improvements to enhance system performance, reduce downtime, and increase energy efficiency.

2. Project Management and Implementation:

   • Manage complex mechanical engineering projects from conception through to commissioning, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to client specifications.
   • Collaborate with project managers, contractors, and cross-functional teams to ensure that mechanical systems are integrated seamlessly into larger food processing projects.
   • Prepare detailed project plans, schedules, and reports, tracking progress and addressing potential issues proactively.

3. Leadership and Mentorship:

   • Provide technical leadership to junior and mid-level engineers, guiding them in solving complex mechanical issues and fostering their development.
   • Lead design reviews and offer expert guidance on the optimization of mechanical systems.
   • Mentor engineering teams in implementing best practices in food processing design, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
   • Conduct training sessions on new systems, safety protocols, and emerging technologies in food manufacturing.

4. Troubleshooting and Maintenance Leadership:

   • Lead the troubleshooting and resolution of critical mechanical issues affecting food processing operations, ensuring minimal disruption to production.
   • Oversee the development of preventive maintenance programs to optimize the reliability of food processing equipment.
   • Work closely with operations and maintenance teams to address immediate mechanical issues and implement long-term solutions to prevent recurrence.

5. Compliance with Food Safety and Industry Regulations:

   • Ensure all mechanical designs, installations, and modifications comply with relevant food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP, FDA) and industry standards (e.g., ASME, API, ANSI).
   • Lead safety audits and risk assessments to ensure compliance with safety and operational standards, mitigating any potential hazards in mechanical systems.
   • Stay updated on the latest regulatory changes and industry trends, ensuring that the company’s food processing systems remain compliant and innovative.

6. Continuous Improvement and Innovation:

   • Identify opportunities for process and system improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce operational costs, and improve the quality of food products.
   • Lead initiatives to incorporate emerging technologies, such as automation, energy-efficient systems, and IoT-enabled monitoring, into food processing operations.
   • Drive a culture of innovation, encouraging the team to explore new solutions for mechanical system challenges and opportunities for improvement.

7. Documentation and Reporting:

   • Ensure all mechanical design work is properly documented, including drawings, specifications, calculations, and maintenance procedures.
   • Prepare and present regular reports on mechanical system performance, ongoing projects, and safety compliance to senior management and stakeholders.
   • Maintain accurate records of all engineering changes, project milestones, and technical decisions.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Mechanical System Design and Process Optimization:

   • Lead the design and optimization of food processing mechanical systems to improve system reliability, efficiency, and production capabilities.

2. Project Leadership and Management:

   • Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of complex mechanical engineering projects, ensuring alignment with operational goals and timelines.

3. Compliance and Safety:

   • Ensure mechanical systems comply with all applicable food safety regulations, safety standards, and industry codes, ensuring a safe and compliant working environment.

4. Innovation and Continuous Improvement:

   • Foster a culture of continuous improvement, driving the adoption of new technologies and innovative solutions to enhance system performance and production quality.

Qualifications and Skills:

1. Educational Requirements:

   • A bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Food Engineering, or a related field.
   • Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field is a plus.

2. Experience:

   • 7+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, with a focus on food processing or manufacturing environments.
   • Proven experience in designing, optimizing, and maintaining mechanical systems in food production plants.
   • Extensive knowledge of food safety regulations, such as HACCP, FDA standards, and industry best practices related to food manufacturing systems.

3. Skills:

   • Strong knowledge of mechanical system design, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and material science as they relate to food processing.
   • Expertise in using CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, etc.) and engineering design tools for creating and reviewing mechanical layouts and designs.
   • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to identify issues quickly and develop effective solutions.
   • Excellent project management skills, with the ability to oversee complex projects, manage budgets, and meet deadlines.
   • Exceptional leadership, mentoring, and team-building skills, with experience managing and developing engineering teams.
   • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and clients.

4. Certifications (Preferred):

   • Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent certification.
   • Certification in food safety or quality control processes in food manufacturing is a plus.
   • Lean Six Sigma or other process improvement certifications are beneficial.