Conagra Brands, Inc.

Principal Engineer Controls

Conagra Brands, Inc.$109K — $159K *
Food & Beverages
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Computer Science
  • 7+ years of experience in electrical and control system design
  • 5+ years of experience working with Rockwell Automation control systems
  • Advanced knowledge of manufacturing automation systems
  • Expert-level experience with human machine interface visualization systems and SQL Server applications
  • Proven track record of identifying improvement opportunities and implementing sustainable solutions
  • Willingness to travel up to 30%.

Responsibilities

  • Partner with leadership to develop capital plans by recommending proven improvements
  • Prepare technical assessments for Front End Loading capital projects
  • Evaluate technology and recommend automation and integration solutions
  • Conduct facility assessments for capital projects
  • Collaborate on project design schedules that align with business objectives
  • Review performance criteria for equipment and systems
  • Support engineering teams during Factory Acceptance Testing and Site Acceptance Testing activities.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive healthcare plans and wellness incentive program
  • Bonus incentive opportunity and matching 401(k)
  • Career development opportunities and tuition reimbursement
  • Paid-time off and flexible work schedules
Full Job Description
Reporting to the Director Engineering, you will serve as a technical expert and resource across the Conagra Engineering organization. You will partner with engineering disciplines, project teams, and site stakeholders to evaluate requirements, develop optimized automation and control system solutions, and support capital investment projects. You will provide technical leadership for manufacturing automation systems, identify opportunities for continuous improvement, and help drive innovation through best-in-class technologies and industry practices.

A Taste of Your Responsibilities
  • Partner with Platform Engineering leadership to develop annual and three-year capital plans by recommending proven system improvements and automation solutions.
  • Support Front End Loading capital project development by preparing thorough FEL1 and FEL3 estimates and technical assessments.
  • Provide technology evaluations and recommend best-in-class automation, controls, and integration solutions.
  • Conduct factory infrastructure assessments and identify facility requirements for capital projects.
  • Support preliminary capital and expense cost estimating activities.
  • Collaborate with Engineering Project Managers to develop project design schedules that align with business objectives.
  • Review equipment and system performance criteria to ensure operational effectiveness and reliability.
  • Support Process and Packaging Engineering teams during Factory Acceptance Testing and Site Acceptance Testing activities.
  • Identify project prerequisites, risks, alternative solutions, and opportunities for optimization.
  • Develop functional control descriptions for manufacturing systems and unit operations.
  • Create and review Technical Briefs that provide clear technical guidance for project teams.
  • Develop Business Case Screening scopes and estimates that provide directional project evaluation and business case validation.
  • Maintain knowledge of current industry regulations, codes, and standards related to manufacturing automation and control systems.
  • Provide technical and economic feasibility analyses that support continuous improvement and competitive advantage initiatives.

Ingredients Required for Your Success
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Computer Science.
  • 7+ years of experience in electrical and control system design.
  • 5+ years of experience working with Rockwell Automation control systems.
  • Experience in the food industry preferred
  • Experience with operations and manufacturing conceptual design.
  • Advanced knowledge of manufacturing automation systems, including networking concepts, programmable logic controllers, variable frequency drives, servo systems, and human machine interfaces.
  • Expert-level experience with human machine interface visualization systems, database integration, and SQL Server applications.
  • Experience with Inductive Automation Ignition, Rockwell Software, Aveva Wonderware, or similar industrial automation platforms.
  • Experience supporting advanced process and packaging controls, including robotic packaging systems, batching systems, and Clean-In-Place systems.
  • Experience leading large-scale system integration projects and programs.
  • Experience leading internal initiatives and driving cross-functional improvements.
  • Knowledge of computer systems, network integration, information technology systems, and cybersecurity principles is preferred.
  • Demonstrated success developing long-term strategies, roadmaps, and technical initiatives.
  • Proven track record identifying improvement opportunities and implementing sustainable solutions.
  • This position is located in Omaha NE, Chicago IL, select field locations or remote locations east of Denver, CO and within reasonable proximity (50 miles) to a major airport
  • Willingness to travel up to 30%.

Physical Requirements

More information about essential tasks and the facility will be shared during the hiring process. This role may require you to be in our manufacturing facilities. When visiting these sites, the physical requirements below may apply:

You may be required to walk around the facility, climb stairs/ladders, kneel, or perform repetitive tasks that require hand-eye coordination.

You may be required to lift or carry materials that can vary in weight and size.

This is a manufacturing environment with large, moving equipment. Noise levels can be high, and temperatures may vary.

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Compensation
Pay Range:$109,000-$159,000

The annual salary listed above is the expected offering for this position. An employee's actual annual salary will be based on but not limited to: location, relevant experience/level and skillset, while balancing internal Conagra employees' equity. Conagra Brands will comply with applicable law regarding minimum salaries for exempt employees.

Anticipated Close Date
September 29, 2026

Our Benefits

We care about your total well-being and will support you with the following, subject to your location and role:
  • Health: Comprehensive healthcare plans, wellness incentive program, mental wellbeing support and fitness reimbursement
  • Wealth: Great pay, bonus incentive opportunity, matching 401(k) and stock purchase plan
  • Growth: Career development opportunities, employee resource groups, on-demand learning and tuition reimbursement
  • Balance: Paid-time off, parental leave, flexible work-schedules (subject to your location and role) and volunteer opportunities


About Conagra Brands, Inc.

We’re ConAgra Foods. We make the food you love. We're passionate about sharing the love of food, stories of our people and the commitment we bring.

Conagra Brands, Inc. Careers

Join the vibrant team at Conagra Brands, Inc., a leader in the food industry, where innovation meets tradition. At Conagra, we are committed to building a dynamic and inclusive culture that fosters growth and leadership in the global marketplace.

Work You’ll Do

At Conagra Brands, Inc., you will be part of a team that is dedicated to making an impact on the food industry through continuous innovation and a commitment to quality. Our diverse team of professionals is driven by a passion for excellence and a desire to exceed consumer expectations.

Explore Job Opportunities

Whether you're looking for an entry-level position or a more experienced role, Conagra offers a range of job opportunities that can help propel your career to new heights. Our team is growing, and we are looking for individuals who are eager to bring their unique skills and perspectives to our company.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with Conagra’s internship programs. These opportunities are designed to give you hands-on experience and insights into the food industry, while also enhancing your skills through practical application. Internships at Conagra are a stepping stone to full-time employment and a great way to build your resume and network with industry leaders.

Professional Growth and Development

Conagra Brands, Inc. is deeply invested in the professional growth of its employees. With access to comprehensive training and development programs, including leadership development and diversity training, our team members are equipped to thrive in their careers and contribute to the company’s success.

Benefits and Culture

Working at Conagra comes with a wealth of benefits that underscore our commitment to our employees’ well-being and professional growth. From competitive health benefits and retirement plans to flexible working conditions and wellness programs, we ensure that our team is supported both in and out of the workplace.

Join Our Team

We are actively hiring and looking for motivated individuals who are ready to join a leading company in the food industry. Search open positions that match your skills and interests on our Careers page. At Conagra Brands, Inc., we value curiosity, creativity, and a collaborative spirit.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at Conagra by following our Careers Blog. Gain insider perspectives, industry-leading insights, and career tips that you can apply today. Personalize your experience by subscribing to job alert emails, tailored to your preferences and designed to keep you informed of new opportunities and company news.

Networking and Innovation

At Conagra Brands, Inc., networking and innovation are at the heart of our operations. We encourage our employees to engage in cross-departmental collaborations, fostering an environment where innovation can thrive. This approach not only enhances our product offerings but also ensures that our team members grow together, building a stronger, more cohesive company.

Embark on Your Career Journey with Conagra Brands, Inc.

Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities awaiting you at Conagra Brands, Inc. Bring your passion, your innovation, and your vision to our team, and help us continue to shape the future of the food industry. Join us in our mission to drive growth and innovation, while enjoying a culture that values diversity and leadership.

SEARCH CONAGRA JOBS

Learn more about Conagra Brands, Inc.
Size
18,600 employees
Market Cap
$18.6 billion
Industry
Net Income
$1.1 billion
5 Year Trend
+8.1%
Revenue
$11.5 billion
NASDAQ

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