Project Engineer

Smithfield Foods•Tar Heel, NC

23d

About The Position

The Project Engineer applies engineering expertise and principles of science and mathematics to design and develop technical solutions for the pork and packaged meat industry. The role supports production process optimization, efficiency improvements, waste reduction, and operating cost reduction. The engineer may work on project teams, take ownership of a project section, lead small teams, and potentially manage small- to medium-sized projects. Responsibilities span preliminary engineering design, project research and analysis, design implementation, vendor and consultant coordination, proposal and bid review, project documentation, installation monitoring, and budget management. The position collaborates with management, engineering staff, plants, vendors, and other locations. Travel to other locations is expected 50% of the time. The role has no formal supervisory responsibilities, but may provide training and guidance to other Project Engineers or plant staff.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering, Engineering Management, or a related field and 2+ years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues.
Project management skills.
Contract administration skills.
Ability to interpret national codes and standards.
Proficiency in engineering economics.
Proficiency in AutoCAD.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Excellent written and oral communication, organizational planning, teamwork, analytical reasoning, and adaptability.
Willingness to travel to other locations 50% of the time.

Nice To Haves

Strong knowledge of meat processing, case ready, and packaged meats.
Ability to work well with others in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Respectful, approachable, and team-oriented manner, with ability to build strong working relationships and a positive work environment.
Knowledge of installation and construction project scheduling.
Preferred knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry.

Responsibilities

Develop preliminary engineering designs and material specifications.
Prepare project cost estimates and conduct research, feasibility studies, and economic analyses for designs.
Determine design criteria based on required standards and codes.
Perform field work and translate completed projects into as-built drawings.
Review engineering projects submitted by plants for accuracy and compliance.
Act as project manager when needed.
Collaborate with management and engineering staff to implement plans.
Coordinate with equipment vendors on layouts and installation schedules.
Review consultants’ work and recommend necessary adjustments.
Conduct engineering planning, design, and operational studies during pre-project phases.
Define scope of work and prepare and evaluate proposals.
Submit weekly status reports to management on schedule.
Assist with contract administration and review bid packages.
Prepare project documents, including justifications, budget analyses, and schedules.
Monitor installations to ensure they meet specifications and remain within budget.
Manage assigned budget activities.
May lead by providing training and guidance to other Project Engineers or plant staff.