Senior Project Engineer
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 20, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 12, 2026. Smithfield Foods scores A on the Alion truth index.
If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.
Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special - a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!
THE VALUE YOU'LL BRING:
As a key member of our dynamic Engineering team, you will dive into data analysis and design innovative implementation plans to optimize production processes. Your mission? Maximize efficiency, eliminate waste, and reduce operating costs-all while ensuring that our world-class brands, including Smithfield, Eckrich, and Nathan’s Famous, continue to exceed the expectations of our customers and consumers.
You’ll apply your expertise in science and mathematics to develop cutting-edge technical projects that transform the pork and packaged meat industry. Whether leading a small team on medium to large-scale projects or taking charge of a critical portion of a more complex initiative, you’ll play a pivotal role in driving success. While you’re fully capable of working independently and making impactful decisions, you’ll also collaborate with senior leaders when facing complex challenges, ensuring every project is executed with precision.
If you're ready to apply your engineering skills to revolutionize manufacturing, enhance operational efficiencies, and deliver exceptional results for some of the most iconic brands in the industry, we want you on our team!
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.
Design and Project Management: You'll develop engineering designs, material specifications, and project cost estimates. You'll also conduct feasibility studies and research to support design choices. You will be responsible for ensuring designs meet required standards and codes, validating field work and creating as-built drawings. You will review engineering submissions for accuracy and compliance, coordinate project activities with vendors, contractors, and plant teams to stay on schedule and collaborate with management and engineering teams to implement plans.
Design Implementation and Coordination: You will be accountable for directing vendors and contractors on layout planning and utility requirements. You'll reviews consultant work and suggest changes as needed and maintain documentation, including manuals, drawings, specs, and vendor contacts.
Reports, Proposals, and Project Preparation: You'll conduct planning and operational reviews during pre-project phases, define project scope, prepare proposals, and evaluate bids. You'll also submit regular status reports to management, assist with contract administration and prepares project documents and monitor installations to ensure they meet specs, budgets, and timelines.
Budget and Contract Management: You will manage project budgets to ensure financial targets are met.
WHAT WE'RE SEEKING:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering, Engineering Management, or related field and 5+ years of experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry, preferred.
Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues.
Knowledge of installation and construction project scheduling.
Must possess Project Management skills; Contract Administration skills; National codes and standards interpretation skills. Previous experience in the management of multi-million-dollar projects with large scopes, desirable.
Proficient in engineering economics.
Proficient in AutoCAD.
Energized by collaboration through travel to other locations. (50% of the time).
OTHER SKILLS THAT MAKE YOU STAND OUT:
Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
Excellent written and oral communication skills, organizational planning, teamwork, analytical reasoning, and adaptability.
Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry, preferred.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The majority of the time is spent in an office setting outside of the production plant. The plant environment will include wet or humid conditions (non-weather related), extreme cold and heat (non-weather related), working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and chemicals.
Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be loud when in the production area.
EEO Information
Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.
Check out this video to learn more about this role!