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Senior Utilities Project Engineer

Location: Newport News, Virginia
Salary: $95K - $117K plus bonus

Drive operational excellence by optimizing critical utility systems that power safe, efficient food manufacturing operations.

Must-Haves

Education & Certifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related field from an accredited four-year institution plus 5+ years of experience in operations, maintenance, and optimization of Ammonia Refrigeration systems (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
• Required certification (one of the following):
  • RETA CIRO (Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator)
  • ANSI/IIAR2 certification
  • Garden City Program Operator II certification
  • Equivalent certification from another nationally recognized ammonia training program

Technical Expertise:

• Deep theoretical understanding of industrial refrigeration systems with proven ability to apply knowledge in real-world operations
• Strong expertise in industrial refrigeration, boiler, and compressed air systems
• Ability to perform load, charge, and relief calculations to identify and correct system deficiencies
• Strong analytical, math, and problem-solving skills

Core Competencies:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proven ability to work independently with minimum supervision
• Willingness to travel 50% of the time to other locations
• Strong collaboration skills with ability to work effectively in fast-paced, dynamic environments
• Respectful, approachable, and team-oriented approach to building positive working relationships

What You'll Do

Strategic Planning & Design:

• Collaborate directly with facilities teams and project engineering to develop Capital Infrastructure Plans
• Engage professional refrigeration engineering resources to design and develop high-impact projects
• Design utility systems including equipment selection, vendor quotes, and work scheduling
• Research and test emerging technologies to improve system performance

System Optimization & Implementation:

• Optimize utility systems based on evolving facility operating requirements
• Implement new systems and standardize equipment requirements across facilities
• Develop and execute solutions to resolve complex refrigeration system issues
• Assess and understand intricate operations to provide strategic support to Operations management

Project Leadership & Execution:

• Lead planning and budgeting processes for utility engineering improvement projects
• Manage multiple concurrent efforts across different technical fields
• Ensure all projects meet expectations, timelines, and quality standards
• Monitor adherence to proper protocols and industry best practices

Compliance & Technical Support:

• Support facilities and PSM Management Team on compliance-related matters
• Identify and correct deficiencies within existing systems through detailed technical analysis
• Provide expert guidance on regulatory requirements and safety standards
• Ensure all utility systems operate efficiently, safely, and in full compliance

Preferred Qualifications

• Electrical experience including troubleshooting in low and high voltage circuits, motors, and controls
• Wastewater operations experience

Why This Role Matters

As a Senior Utilities Project Engineer, you'll be the technical expert ensuring our critical utility infrastructure operates at peak performance. Your work directly impacts manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and workplace safety. You'll have the autonomy to lead meaningful projects, implement innovative solutions, and make strategic decisions that drive operational success. This role offers the perfect opportunity to leverage your refrigeration expertise while expanding your skills across multiple utility systems in a mission-critical environment.