Electrical Engineering Manager

POSITION TITLE: Manager - Electrical Engineering & Maintenance

SUMMARY OF POSITION
The Senior Electrical Engineer plays a critical role in ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of all electrical systems and major utilities across the plant. This position is responsible for designing, maintaining, and upgrading electrical infrastructure, including substations, solar (PV + BESS) systems, main electrical distribution boards, circuit breakers, grounding systems, and electrical controls for both industrial processing and packaging operations. The role collaborates with department managers and supervisors on installation and construction activities related to capital and technical projects. The engineer also manages automation platforms (SCADA, Ignition) and network systems, driving continuous improvement in plant reliability, energy efficiency, and compliance with industry standards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Substation & Power Distribution
• Manage operation, maintenance, and reliability of electrical substations, solar (PV + BESS) systems, and transformers.
• Maintain Main Electrical Distribution Boards (MDBs) and main circuit breakers to ensure uninterrupted power supply.
• Implement and verify proper grounding and electrical protection systems for personnel and equipment safety.

Utilities & Equipment
• Oversee electrical systems for boilers, cooling towers, water systems, and other major utilities.
• Develop and execute preventive and predictive maintenance programs to minimize downtime and extend equipment life.

Controls & Automation
• Ensure proper operation and maintenance of electrical controls for all plant processing operations.
• Maintain and troubleshoot SCADA systems, Ignition HMI platforms, and industrial network infrastructure.
• Collaborate with IT and automation teams to ensure secure and reliable connectivity for plant systems.
• Implement and maintain PLC safety systems for all equipment.

Safety & Compliance
• Enforce compliance with OSHA, NFPA, and industry electrical standards.
• Conduct root cause analysis for electrical failures and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Project Management
• Lead electrical upgrade projects from concept through commissioning, ensuring alignment with plant goals.
• Prepare technical specifications, review vendor proposals, and manage contractors to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Participate in planning and execution of capital projects and technology improvement programs, including data gathering, engineering evaluation, scope development, design, cost estimation, financial analysis, contract negotiation, and scheduling.

Leadership
• Participate in the site leadership management team with ownership of plant performance in assigned areas.
• Develop and manage complex budgets; evaluate and determine resource allocation for plant operations.
• Deploy and communicate goals, objectives, and performance measurements.
• Manage direct reports, including hiring, training, performance management, and career development.
• Ensure cross-training for all critical processes.
• Ensure adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and safety policies.
• Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Maintain confidentiality in all areas of responsibility.
• Perform other duties as necessary.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs)
• Substation Reliability: Maintain >99.5% uptime.
• Preventive Maintenance Compliance: Achieve 100% scheduled PM completion.
• Downtime Reduction: Reduce electrical-related downtime by ≥15% annually.
• Energy Efficiency: Implement projects reducing energy consumption by 5-10% per year.
• Safety Compliance: Zero OSHA/NFPA violations; 100% lockout/tagout adherence.
• Automation Reliability: Maintain >99% uptime for SCADA and Ignition systems.

QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Knowledge of project management and process improvement.
• Strong interpersonal and conflict management skills.
• Proficiency with scheduling software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
• Ability to maintain composure in stressful situations.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.
• Strong problem-solving skills and sound judgment.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects.
• Strong analytical, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage engineering projects and programs.
• Ability to apply mathematics, science, and engineering principles to complex problems.
• Ability to work effectively on multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with all levels of staff and management.

Education and Experience
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (Master's preferred).
• FE certification, PE license, PMP, or ISA Certified Automation Professional desirable.
• 7+ years of experience managing engineering and maintenance projects in processing or manufacturing operations; union environment preferred.
• Or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.