Smithfield Foods

Senior Process Improvement Engineer

Smithfield Foods$85K — $110K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related field required
  • 5+ years of experience in manufacturing or continuous improvement
  • Experience leading CI or lean manufacturing initiatives across multiple facilities
  • Strong analytical and project management skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel; SAP experience preferred

Responsibilities

  • Analyze and improve plant processes to boost operational efficiency and reduce costs
  • Lead lean initiatives like Kaizen and Value Stream Mapping for continuous improvement
  • Manage engineering and continuous improvement projects from concept to implementation
  • Conduct root cause analysis and data collection for operational insights
  • Develop and maintain standard operating procedures and production measurement systems
  • Collaborate with teams across various functions to enhance operational cohesiveness
  • Facilitate training workshops on best practices in process optimization
  • Research and implement emerging technologies for operational efficiency

Benefits

  • Relocation package available
  • Opportunities for professional development and training
  • Supportive team-oriented work environment
  • Diverse and inclusive workplace culture
  • Health and wellness programs
Full Job Description
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.

As a Senior Process Improvement Engineer, you will spearhead high-impact initiatives that transform manufacturing operations, enhance product quality, and elevate safety standards across multiple facilities. With a focus on advanced engineering techniques and lean methodologies, you'll lead cross-functional efforts to optimize systems, streamline workflows, and drive sustainable cost reduction. Your work will directly influence productivity, throughput, and profitability-while championing a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and operational excellence.

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.
  • Process Optimization and Engineering Support: You will analyze and improve plant processes to increase operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality by conducting time studies, capacity analyses, and risk assessments. You will also recommend and implement engineering solutions, layout changes, and equipment upgrades while identifying lean waste elimination opportunities to optimize production performance.
  • Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement Leadership: You will lead and facilitate lean initiatives-including Kaizen, 5S, A3 problem solving, and Value Stream Mapping-to drive continuous improvement across operations. You will serve as a change agent, implementing standardized and sustainable solutions that enhance efficiency and foster a culture of operational excellence.
  • Project and Program Management: You will lead multiple engineering and continuous improvement projects from initial concept through successful implementation, ensuring each initiative delivers operational value. You will also manage project execution with a strong focus on meeting budget, timeline, and performance objectives.
  • Data Analysis and Performance Systems: You will conduct root cause analysis, process mapping, and advanced data collection to uncover opportunities for operational improvement. You will also design and develop systems that enable accurate productivity tracking and support ongoing performance optimization efforts.
  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and Business Systems: You will develop and maintain standard operating procedures, labor standards, and production measurement systems to ensure consistent and efficient operations. You will also enhance management tools that support cost analysis, financial planning, and job evaluation, enabling data-driven decisions across the organization.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: You will collaborate with teams across Operations, Quality, Maintenance, and Supply Chain to align initiatives and drive cohesive improvements. You will also support process validation and the successful installation of new equipment to ensure efficiency and compliance from day one.
  • Training and Capability Building: You will facilitate training workshops and coach plant personnel and leaders on best practices in process optimization.
  • Compliance, Governance, and Quality Assurance: You will conduct internal audits and evaluations to ensure regulatory and policy adherence.
  • Techology Innovation and Sustainability: You will research and implement emerging technologies that boost operational efficiency and support long-term sustainability goals. You will also lead technical advancements that drive measurable improvements in product quality and manufacturing performance.


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 (Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical, or related field) and 5+ years of relevant experience in manufacturing engineering, continuous improvement, or industrial engineering; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
  • Demonstrated experience leading CI or lean manufacturing initiatives across multiple departments or facilities.


OTHER SKILLS THAT MAKE YOU STAND OUT:
  • Strong analytical, planning, and project management skills with a track record of results.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; advanced Excel knowledge required. SAP experience preferred.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to engage across all levels of the organization.
  • Experience with Lean Six Sigma tools (certification preferred).
  • Self-motivated and capable of working independently with a high degree of accountability.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee should possess to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting (up to 50 pounds).
  • Work in manufacturing environments with exposure to varying temperatures, mechanical equipment, and noise for extended periods of time.
  • Some projects may involve navigating uneven terrain during site visits.
Relocation Package AvailableYes

Check out this video to learn more about this role!

About Smithfield Foods

Smithfield Foods is a meat processing company that produces and markets a variety of fresh and packaged meats. The company was founded in 1936 and is headquartered in Smithfield, Virginia. Smithfield Foods operates in the United States and internationally, and its products are sold under a number of well-known brands. The company is committed to sustainability and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. Smithfield Foods is a subsidiary of WH Group, a Chinese meat processing company.
Learn more about Smithfield Foods
Size
54,000 employees
Industry
Founded
1936

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