Tyson Foods

Lead Engineer Controls (Onsite)

Tyson Foods • $95K — $115K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering preferred; equivalent experience accepted.
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience with plant processes and equipment, specifically in machine connectivity.
  • Strong knowledge of machine PLCs and industrial networking protocols (e.g., OPC-UA, MQTT, Ethernet/IP).
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office; familiarity with Ignition and Anaplan is a plus.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of bridging technical and non-technical discussions.
  • Ability to build rapport quickly with plant teams and thrive in ambiguous situations.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the Smart Factory 'Are We Winning' Program's Connectivity Effort across production facilities.
  • Identify key processing equipment needing connectivity in collaboration with plant leadership.
  • Design connectivity plans with technical personnel and machine OEMs, including hands-on evaluation.
  • Configure, test, and troubleshoot connectivity issues personally, stepping in as needed.
  • Collaborate with various stakeholders on cost estimates, project plans, and timelines.
  • Drive execution across teams to ensure projects are delivered on schedule and within budget.
  • Manage 10-20 projects simultaneously, ensuring effective program management.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work in a hands-on technical role with direct impact on production efficiency.
  • Engagement with diverse teams across the organization, enhancing collaboration skills.
  • Chance to develop long-term relationships within the plant teams.
  • Exposure to cutting-edge industrial connectivity technologies and protocols.
  • Professional development opportunities in project management and technical execution.
Full Job Description
Job Details:

SUMMARY

This position's primary responsibility is to lead the Smart Factory "Are We Winning" Program's Connectivity Effort across Tyson Foods' production facilities. This is a hands-on technical role as much as a program-management role - the individual will personally perform connectivity configuration and troubleshooting, not simply direct others who do. Program workflow:
  • Work with plant leadership to identify key processing equipment requiring connectivity. (Non-technical communication)
  • Work directly with plant technical personnel and machine OEMs to design the connectivity plan - including hands-on evaluation of PLC architecture, network topology, and data availability at the machine. (Technical / PLC background and technical communication)
  • Personally configure, test, and troubleshoot connectivity - protocol setup, PLC data mapping, and network integration - stepping in as the technical resource when plant or contractor capability falls short. (Hands-on technical execution)
  • Work with plant leadership, technical personnel, integrators, contractors, and corporate finance on cost estimates, project plans/timelines, and CIR building. (Communication and project management)
  • Drive execution across all teams and personnel involved to ensure each project delivers on schedule and at cost. (Project management)
  • Manage 10-20 projects simultaneously. (Multi-project program management)


REQUIREMENTS

Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or another technical field preferred. Equivalent work experience is acceptable if the individual demonstrates hands-on technical ability to execute connectivity work directly, communication skills to lead the program, and project management capability.

Experience: 5+ years working with plant processes and equipment, including direct, hands-on experience configuring and troubleshooting machine connectivity - not solely oversight or coordination of others performing the work.

Technical Skills: Strong, hands-on knowledge of machine PLCs and industrial connectivity/networking (e.g., OPC-UA, MQTT, Ethernet/IP, or comparable protocols). Proficient in Microsoft Office. Background in Ignition and Anaplan a plus.

Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication. Demonstrated ability to translate technical information for non-technical stakeholders and vice versa.

Special Skills: Builds rapport quickly with plant teams and develops strong long-term relationships. Performs the technical work personally when needed, rather than relying solely on others to execute. Thrives in ambiguity and operates as a self-starter.

Travel: 25%

** Not eligible for immigration/work authorization support now or in the future **

** Not eligible for relocation assistance **
All professional team members are expected to demonstrate responsible use of approved AI tools, including safeguarding sensitive information, adhering to company policies, and validating AI-generated outputs. Individual Contributors should demonstrate the ability to integrate AI into daily work, improve efficiency through AI-enabled solutions, evaluate outputs critically, and apply professional judgment when using AI. People Leaders should demonstrate the ability to drive responsible AI adoption, enable effective use of approved solutions, identify opportunities to improve team performance through AI, and ensure accountability for the quality and accuracy of AI-supported outcomes.

Relocation Assistance Eligible:
No

Work Shift:
1ST SHIFT (United States of America)

Hourly Applicants ONLY -You must complete the task after submitting your application to provide additional information to be considered for employment.

The successful candidate(s) must be willing and able to perform the physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.

About Tyson Foods

Tyson Foods scientifically formulated feed, and technical assistance on subjects like sustainable farming practices and animal welfare. They serve hash browns stuffed with ham and cheese, sausage simple scrambles, bacon simple scrambles, formed pork sausage patties, sausage and egg pancake sandwich with maple syrup, wrapped whole grain apple cinnamon pancake, and more.

Tyson Foods Careers

Joining Tyson Foods means becoming part of one of the world’s leading food companies, renowned for its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and quality. At Tyson Foods, we offer unparalleled job opportunities that empower you to grow both personally and professionally. Work You’ll Do At Tyson Foods, you’ll contribute to a team that values leadership, diversity, and innovation. Our commitment to these principles makes us a top choice for professionals looking to make a significant impact in the food industry. Whether you’re involved in operations, marketing, research, or any of our other departments, your work will help us continue to feed the world in the most efficient and sustainable ways possible. Join our dynamic team and help us transform the industry through cutting-edge innovation and a commitment to excellence that’s second to none. Career Growth and Development Tyson Foods is dedicated to the professional growth of our employees. We offer a variety of leadership and diversity training programs designed to enhance your skills and advance your career. With Tyson, your career trajectory is limitless, supported by development opportunities that ensure you’re always moving forward. Internship Programs Kickstart your career with a Tyson Foods internship. Our internships provide invaluable workplace experience, offering a glimpse into the culture and operations of a global leader. Interns at Tyson Foods work on real projects, learn from industry leaders, and gain the skills necessary for a successful career in the food industry. Benefits of Working at Tyson Foods Choose a career with Tyson Foods and enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life, and dental insurance, employee assistance programs, and more. We believe in nurturing our team not only professionally but also personally. Inclusive Culture At Tyson Foods, we pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive culture where every team member feels valued. We believe that diversity fuels innovation and we strive to create a workplace where all employees can thrive. Join Our Team Explore the job opportunities at Tyson Foods today. Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are continuously hiring and looking for new team members who are passionate, curious, and driven to excel. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest at Tyson Foods by following our careers blog. Gain insider perspectives and industry-leading insights that can help you in your job search and beyond. Networking and Professional Opportunities At Tyson Foods, networking and professional development are part of our DNA. Connect with leaders and peers within the company through various networking events and platforms. Enhance your resume, prepare for your next interview, and build relationships that could shape the future of your career. Job Alert Emails Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts and the latest news tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at Tyson Foods. Join Tyson Foods and be part of a company that’s leading the way in the food industry through innovation, leadership, and a commitment to diversity and sustainability. Your future starts here!
Learn more about Tyson Foods
Size
137,000 employees
Market Cap
$22 billion
Industry
Net Income
$1.9 billion
Founded
1935
5 Year Trend
+6.8%
Revenue
$42.8 billion
NASDAQ

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