Engineering Project Manager, Global

Are you a seasoned engineering leader who thrives on driving large-scale capital projects around the world? Newly Weds Foods is seeking a Global Engineering Project Manager to lead complex manufacturing and automation initiatives across multiple international locations while helping shape the future of our engineering organization. In this highly visible role, you will partner with executive leadership, mentor and develop the next generation of engineers, and oversee multimillion-dollar projects that advance innovation, efficiency, and growth across our global operations. This role is on-site 5 days a week at our Chicago location with domestic and international travel approximately up to 60% of the time. What You’ll Do

• Major involvement with the development, management and execution of the International Capital budget across multiple facilities in UK, Europe, India, China, Thailand, Philippines, Australia and New Zealand.
• Manages full life cycle capital projects from concept to feasibility to installation, start-up and final handover. Develops scope of work, preliminary budgets, detailed cost estimates, equipment specifications, drawings, bid documents, bid tabulations from vendor proposals and schedules for NWF management approval.
• Oversees the project design and development to ensure that the project delivers all project objectives on time, and within the approved capital budget as effectively and efficiently as possible.
• Works with equipment vendors to obtain and evaluate competitive proposals for equipment required on projects. Prepares purchase requisitions and approves project-related invoices for payment. Schedules equipment deliveries, services, or trades.
• Supports engineering capability development across regional teams.
• Identifies opportunities for standardization and equipment harmonization.
• Drives engineering best practices across the global manufacturing network.
• Supports sustainability initiatives and energy optimization strategies.
• Evaluates equipment capabilities, designs production line layouts, and integrates automation or robotics into existing infrastructure.
• Ensures compliance with applicable local, regional, and international laws, regulations, and food safety standards, including FDA, OSHA, EPA, BRCGS, CE Machinery Regulations (where applicable), and other statutory requirements.
• Works cross-functionally with Finance, Operations, R&D, IT, Quality, Sanitation, Health & Safety, Legal, and other departments as required.
• Oversees contractors, building construction, and field installation of processing and packaging systems - including ensuring equipment and workmanship meet or exceed project requirements, preparing reports on fieldwork, initiating any required change orders, through to start-up, and commissioning.
• Complete Factory Acceptance Tests or Pre-Delivery Inspections at supplier’s site as required. Oversee and coordinate equipment start-up, commissioning, and training.
• Oversee development of supporting set-up, run, and change-over documentation for equipment, including Process Specifications, Standard Operating Procedures, and Work Instructions. May use appropriate input from the machine operators, supervisors, and other technical personnel.
• Leads the planning, implementation, and integration of reliable and secure Operational Technology [OT] infrastructure in collaboration with IT, automation teams, network vendors, system integrators, and cybersecurity teams.
• Monitor industry trends and technological advancements to identify opportunities for competitive advantage and system improvements.
• Research new methodologies, tools, and market trends to ensure engineering designs and operations meet evolving industry standards.
• Protects company assets, confidential information, and intellectual property.
• Performs other duties or special projects as needed.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, (Chemical, Electrical or Mechanical)
• Required to travel – up to 60% with both domestic and international travel (pending project needs)
• 12+ years of progressive project engineering and capital project management experience within the food manufacturing industry.
• Proficiency in CAD software, Project Management software, and Microsoft 365
• Ability to simultaneously manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment across multiple time zones and cultures.
• Strong technical acumen in the areas of Factory Floor Automation, Engineering Design Review, Process and Packaging Systems, Safety/Compliance & Risk Mitigation.
• Financial proficiency in cost forecasting, negotiating, scope definition, and monitoring project budgets.
• Fundamental understanding of Operational Technology [OT] environments, including industrial network infrastructure, Industrial Control Systems [ICS], SCADA, PLCs, Manufacturing Execution systems [MES], Industrial IoT, and Industry 4.0 technologies.
• Exceptional stakeholder management, communication, and influence skills, with the ability to communicate succinctly and effectively with executive leadership.
• Experience in Food Manufacturing, preferably with Experience in Industrial Baking, Dry Blending, and/or QSR sauces, dressings and condiments.

Preferred

• Demonstrated ability to lead projects effectively across multiple countries, cultures, business functions, and regulatory environments.
• PMP, PRINCE2, or equivalent certification
• Experience delivering projects with EPC contract management method
• Working knowledge of construction contracts (AIA, DBIA, FIDIC, etc.)

Work Environment

• General Office and Manufacturing plant setting.
• Periodic exposure to (1) a loud environment, (2) airborne particles with stronger odors associated with spicy food ingredients, (3) cold, hot, wet, and humid conditions, (4) walking and standing on concrete, (5) climbing steps, ladders, (6) standing on elevated surfaces (on occasions greater than 50’).
• Fast-paced environment

Compensation Range: $130,000 -$175,000 + Bonus Eligibility Applicants for this position must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Newly Weds Foods will not sponsor applicants for this position for work visas. Why Join Newly Weds Foods?

• Established, stable company with a long history and strong industry reputation
• Long-tenured team members who reflect our supportive and collaborative culture
• Opportunity to own and grow your territory with real impact on business success
• Exposure to innovative food solutions and a diverse product portfolio
• Collaborative environment with cross-functional support
• Career growth opportunities within a global organization

Benefits

• Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision
• Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training, Events
• Emotional – Employee Assistance Program, Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
• Financial – 401k, Employee Incentive Plan, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability