Associate Vice President Corporate Engineering

Key Responsibilities

• Process optimization: Develop and optimize food production processes to improve efficiency, quality and safety.

• Engineering projects: Lead and manage engineering projects, including new installations, upgrades and equipment maintenance.

• Compliance: Ensure all processes comply with food safety regulations and industry standards.

• Continuous improvement: Identify opportunities for improvement and implement solutions that increase productivity and reduce waste.

• Technical support: Provide technical support and troubleshooting for production equipment and processes.

• Training: Train staff on new processes, equipment and best practices to ensure consistent, safe operations.

• Documentation: Maintain accurate documentation of processes, procedures and project plans.

• Capital planning: Develop and manage strategic capital plans that support long-term growth and sustainability, including identifying capital investment opportunities, budgeting and ensuring alignment with corporate goals.

• Capital project ownership: Own the delivery of a multi-year capital portfolio valued in the tens of millions of dollars, from business case through commissioning, with full accountability for scope, budget, timelines and vendor performance. Track return on investment and report project status and results to senior leadership.

AI & Technical Systems Expertise

• AI in manufacturing: Hands-on experience with AI-enabled technologies in a manufacturing environment is required. A key focus of this role is supporting and optimizing our x-ray inspection systems, which use AI software to detect product defects and foreign materials.

• Machine vision and data: Familiarity with machine vision systems, data analysis and the continuous improvement of AI algorithms in real-time production settings is essential.

• Cross-functional partnership: Collaborate closely with Operations and Quality teams to ensure system accuracy, efficiency and compliance with food safety standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Food Science, or a related field.

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in a food manufacturing environment.

• Strong project management skills and proficiency in CAD software.

• Knowledge of food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP, FSMA).

• Familiarity with automation and control systems.

• Experience with process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma).

Location, Travel & Compensation

• Location: Must be based in: Chicago, IL; Seattle, WA; or Sussex, WI.

• Travel: Travel within North America is expected, primarily to Sussex, WI and Blaine, WA.

• Compensation: USD $195,000–$225,000 base salary, plus a 30% bonus.