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Project Engineering Manager, Meat Processing

North Carolina or Virginia | Direct Hire

A meat processing company is seeking a Project Engineering Manager to lead automation projects for industrial equipment across its facilities. This role works closely with business partners and cross-functional teams to translate automation needs into engineering solutions, overseeing projects from initial design through installation and budget close-out.

Schedule
Full-time. Up to 50% travel to other locations required.

Compensation
$125,000 to $155,000, plus bonus.

What You'll Do
This role develops preliminary designs and specifications for engineering and materials, prepares project cost estimates, and conducts research, feasibility studies, and economic studies to ensure designs are viable and cost effective. The manager determines design criteria based on required standards and codes, validates field work, and creates as-built drawings to document final outcomes. Reviewing and checking engineering projects for accuracy is a core responsibility, along with managing project execution by guiding vendors and contractors and coordinating schedules with plant personnel, management, and engineering teams. The role also directs equipment vendors on layouts, utility requirements, and installation schedules, and reviews consultant work products, recommending adjustments as needed. Maintaining comprehensive documentation, including equipment manuals, mechanical and electrical drawings, parts lists, specifications, and vendor contact information, is an ongoing part of the job. The manager conducts engineering planning, design, and operational reviews during pre-project studies, determines scope of work, prepares requests for proposals, and evaluates proposals to select the best approach. Reporting to management on progress and key developments, contract administration and bid package review, and preparing project justifications, budget analyses, calculations, plans, and schedules round out the core responsibilities. The role also monitors installations to ensure proposal specifications and budgets are met, manages assigned budget activities, and continuously builds knowledge of robotics and controls to support innovative automation solutions.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field, plus 5+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• 2+ years of experience in a leadership role, including team development and management
• Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues
• Knowledge of installation and construction project scheduling
• Layout and design experience
• Experience managing a multi-million dollar budget
• Project management, contract administration, and national codes and standards interpretation skills
• Proficiency in engineering economics
• Proficiency in AutoCAD
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and other Microsoft Office products
• Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry
• Previous experience managing multi-million dollar projects with large scopes
• Ability to travel up to 50% of the time

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with robotics and industrial controls systems
• PMP certification or equivalent project management credential
• Experience working directly with USDA or food safety regulatory requirements

Compensation and Benefits

• Base salary $125,000 to $155,000 plus bonus
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance 
• 401(k) 
• PTO

To apply, submit your resume for consideration.