Manufacturing Engineer Lead Job at Nature's Bakery in Salt Lake City

Position: Manufacturing Engineer Lead

As a Manufacturing Engineer Lead, you'll play a pivotal role in launching and optimizing processes in this new venture. You'll collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive efficiency, implement innovative solutions, and establish engineering excellence. This is your chance to make an impact in a fast-paced environment while leading the development of world-class manufacturing operations.

Job Overview

The Manufacturing Engineer Lead is accountable for supporting plant operations, leading capital planning, and serving as a subject matter expert for manufacturing systems. This includes spearheading process improvements, overseeing equipment installation, and driving continuous improvement initiatives in a consumer packaged goods (CPG) environment with safety and quality at the forefront.

In this role, you'll partner closely with Operations, Maintenance, R&D, Quality, and Safety teams while mentoring others and driving innovative solutions to ensure the success of the new facility.

Key Responsibilities

Facility Start-Up & Equipment Management:

• Lead commissioning, installation, and validation of new manufacturing equipment.
• Oversee the development and implementation of scalable manufacturing processes.
• Manage vendor and contractor relationships to ensure successful project execution.
• Develop and maintain equipment documentation, including schematics and operational guidelines.

Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement:

• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity.
• Drive lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to reduce waste and optimize workflows.
• Conduct root cause analyses and implement corrective actions for production issues.

Leadership & Collaboration:

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to engineering and operations teams.
• Act as a key liaison between engineering, operations, and maintenance departments.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and cross-functional collaboration.

Capital Planning & Project Management:

• Collaborate with stakeholders to develop detailed user requirements, project scopes, and budgets.
• Create and manage Capital Appropriation Requests aligned with annual CAPEX plans.
• Ensure on-time, within-budget delivery of engineering projects aligned with company objectives.

Data Analysis & Reporting:

• Monitor manufacturing performance metrics and use data-driven insights to recommend improvements.
• Prepare reports and presentations for leadership on project progress and process enhancements.

What You Bring

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Chemical Engineering.
• 5-7+ years of experience in manufacturing or engineering roles, preferably in food, pharma, or CPG industries.
• Demonstrated project management skills, including experience managing complex projects.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar design software.
• Strong understanding of process technologies, lean manufacturing, and Six Sigma principles.
• Exceptional interpersonal, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• High-speed packaging and production line experience, including wrapping, cartoning, and palletizing equipment.
• Experience with sanitary systems (CIP), temperature control, and HVAC systems.
• Proficiency in PLCs, servo motors, HMIs, and related automation technologies.
• Familiarity with SAP or other ERP systems for project and inventory management.

Physical Demands

• Regularly work in a manufacturing environment with moving machinery and varying temperatures.

Ability to lift up to 40 pounds, stand for extended periods, and climb stairs as needed