Strategic Project Manager

Strategic Project Manager Drive cutting‑edge automation projects for the pork industry, collaborating with business partners and cross‑functional teams to translate automation needs into innovative solutions. Responsibilities Develop preliminary designs and specifications for engineering and materials; prepare cost estimates. Conduct research, feasibility studies, and economic studies to ensure designs are viable and cost‑effective. Determine design criteria based on standards and codes; validate field work and produce as‑built drawings. Review and check engineering projects for accuracy; manage project execution by guiding vendors and contractors. Coordinate project schedules with plant personnel, vendors, and contractors to align with management and engineering teams. Coordinate and direct equipment vendors to plan layouts, ensure utility requirements are met, and maintain installation schedules. Review work products from consultants and recommend adjustments. Maintain documentation: equipment manuals, mechanical and electrical drawings, parts lists, specifications, and vendor contact information. Conduct engineering planning, design, and operational reviews during pre‑project studies to assess feasibility. Determine scope of work, prepare requests for proposals, evaluate proposals, and select the best approach. Prepare detailed reports to management; monitor installations to ensure specifications and budgets are met. Manage assigned budget activities; maintain financial control and accountability throughout the project lifecycle. Continuously improve knowledge of robotics and controls. Drive a positive employee experience through leadership, development, and coaching. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field and five or more years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. At least two years of leadership experience, including team development and management. Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues. Knowledge of installation and construction project scheduling. Project management and contract administration skills. Proficiency reading national codes and standards. Proficiency in engineering economics, AutoCAD, Microsoft Excel, Word, and other Office products. Willingness to travel up to 50% of the time and collaborate across locations. Preferred Qualifications Knowledge of food processing engineering and the meat industry. Experience managing multi‑million‑dollar projects with large scopes. Strong written and oral communication skills. Analytical reasoning, organizational planning, teamwork, and adaptability. Respectful, approachable, and team‑oriented, building strong working relationships. Physical Demands & Work Environment The majority of the time is spent in an office setting outside the production plant. The environment includes wet or humid conditions, extreme temperatures, exposure to moving mechanical parts, fumes, airborne particles, and chemicals. Tasks require sitting, using hands, talking, hearing, and seeing both up close and at a distance. Compensation & Benefits Expected pay range: $105,000 – $140,000 annually. Relocation assistance is available. Smithfield offers comprehensive benefits and professional development programs. Equal Employment Opportunity Smithfield is an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veteran status, status as a disabled individual, or any other protected characteristic. Requests for reasonable accommodation may be made during any stage of the hiring process. #J-18808-Ljbffr Smithfield Packaged Meats Corp