Mechanical Engineer

Company Overview

Synergy Flavors, part of the Carbery Group, is more than just a leading international supplier of ingredients to the global food and beverage industry-we're a team driven by purpose. Our vision is simple yet powerful: enriching lives through healthier and tastier foods.

We believe great flavor starts with great people. That's why we're committed to hiring creative, passionate individuals who want to make a real impact. With deep expertise across food, beverage, and nutrition, our teams develop high-quality taste solutions that inspire innovation and elevate everyday experiences.

Your Role in Synergy's Success

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer with experience in food manufacturing and processing environments to support the design, optimization, and continuous improvement of food production equipment and processes. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with sanitary design, processing equipment, and regulatory standards applicable to the food industry. This role will support both of our Chicago manufacturing sites.

How You Will Contribute

• Design, specify, and support mechanical systems and equipment used in food processing, packaging, and material handling
  
• Lead equipment selection and layout for production lines (mixing, cooking, filling, conveying, packaging, etc.)
  
• Ensure compliance with USDA, FDA, FSMA, GMP, and sanitary design standards
  
• Collaborate with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, Safety and Engineering teams to improve throughput, reliability, and safety
  
• Develop and review technical drawings, specifications, and documentation (P&IDs, layouts, BOMs)
  
• Support installation, commissioning, and validation of new equipment and line upgrades
  
• Troubleshoot mechanical failures and drive root cause analysis and corrective actions
  
• Manage capital improvement projects from concept through startup
  
• Interface with equipment vendors, integrators, and contractors
  
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost, efficiency, and waste reduction
  

Professional Experience/Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 3-7+ years of mechanical engineering experience in food manufacturing, beverage, or consumer packaged goods (CPG)
• Understand and adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices, Safety rules, and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Basic knowledge of general mechanical parts a plus.
• Ability to read, interpret, and understand drawings, specifications, sequences of operation, control drawings, and other technical data.
• Ability to make independent interpretations and make appropriate decisions.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, to a wide range of departments.
• Ability to work on the plant floor and support off-shift or weekend installations as needed
• Experience managing capital projects ($100K-$5MM+)
• Knowledge of utilities systems (steam, electrical, HVAC, compressed air)

Salary Range: $105,000 to 142,000/yr

The actual compensation that you will be offered will depend on a variety of factors including geography, skills and abilities, education, experience and other relevant factors. This role will remain open until filled.

For more information on our benefits click here.

Department: Operations
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Reporting To: Plant Manager

Our Commitment to our People

We are a diverse and growing workforce of over 1,000 people across eight countries globally. As we continue to grow, we want to ensure that Carbery Group continues to be a place where people are supported to develop and feel that they can do their best work. We are committed to driving growth, developing future capability and delivering results through our dedicated teams.

We offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and an inclusive workplace where your skills, perspectives, and experience help shape the future of our industry. Join us and be part of a team that values collaboration and makes a meaningful impact - from local communities to global markets.

Carbery Group is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to fostering a supportive work environment.