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Food Manufacturing Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineer

Watertown, WI · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Minimum of 2 years of manufacturing or project engineering experience. * Experience in food manufacturing or consumer packaged goods is preferred. * Experience or certification in Lean Manufacturing ...

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Food Manufacturing Engineering information

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$80K

$123.1K

$154K

How much do food manufacturing engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for food manufacturing engineering in the United States is $123,079.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,000.00 and $136,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Food Manufacturing Engineering vs Food Processing Technician?

AspectFood Manufacturing EngineeringFood Processing Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldHigh school diploma or associate degree, technical training
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes in factoriesOperate and maintain processing equipment on the production line
Industry UsageUsed by companies to improve efficiency and product quality

Food Manufacturing Engineering focuses on designing and improving production processes, requiring engineering credentials. In contrast, Food Processing Technicians handle daily operations and equipment maintenance, often with technical training. Both roles are essential in the food industry but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Manufacturing Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, food science, and process optimization, often supported by a degree in chemical, mechanical, or food engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, process control systems, and industry-specific standards such as HACCP or SQF certifications is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating across departments and addressing production challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality food production in a competitive manufacturing environment.

What is the highest paid job in the food industry?

In food manufacturing engineering, senior roles such as Food Engineering Managers or Directors typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership responsibilities within large food production companies.

What is Food Manufacturing Engineering?

Food Manufacturing Engineering is a specialized field that focuses on the design, development, and optimization of processes and equipment used to produce food products on an industrial scale. Professionals in this field apply principles of engineering, biology, and chemistry to ensure food safety, quality, and efficiency in manufacturing operations. They work on everything from developing automated processing lines to improving packaging and storage methods. This role is integral to meeting industry standards and regulatory requirements while also innovating for better productivity and sustainability.

What are some common challenges faced by engineers in food manufacturing, and how can they be effectively managed?

Engineers in food manufacturing frequently encounter challenges such as maintaining product quality while optimizing production efficiency, ensuring compliance with stringent safety and hygiene regulations, and adapting to evolving automation technologies. Effective management of these challenges involves staying current with industry standards, collaborating closely with quality assurance and operations teams, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives. Strong problem-solving skills, proactive communication, and a willingness to learn new technologies are essential for success in this dynamic environment.
More about Food Manufacturing Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Food Manufacturing Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Food Manufacturing Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Food Manufacturing Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Manufacturing Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Food Manufacturing Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Food Manufacturing Engineering jobs are:
Infographic showing various Food Manufacturing Engineering job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,079 per year, or $59.2 per hour.
Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Matthews, NC • On-site

$103K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 396 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

185th of 515 rated manufacturers


Job description

Work Schedule

Standard (Mon-Fri)

Environmental Conditions

Able to lift 40 lbs. without assistance, Adherence to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Safety Standards, Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.), Strong Odors (chemical, lubricants, biological products etc.)

Job Description

As part of the ThermoFisher Scientific team, you'll discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life every single day to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. We provide our global teams with the resources needed to achieve individual career goals while helping to take science a step beyond by developing solutions for some of the world's toughest challenges, like protecting the environment, making sure our food is safe or helping find cures for cancer.

DESCRIPTION

The Manufacturing Engineering Manager leads and develops engineering teams to ensure operational excellence across manufacturing facilities. This role combines technical expertise with leadership to drive continuous improvement in quality, efficiency, and innovation. Working closely with cross-functional teams including R&D, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain, you'll oversee new product introductions, new equipment sourcing, equipment optimization, process improvements, and technical issue resolution. You'll support ThermoFisher Scientific's mission by implementing effective engineering solutions that help make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer.

REQUIREMENTS
  • Advanced degree plus 8 years of experience, or bachelor's degree plus 10 years of experience in manufacturing engineering in regulated industry (pharmaceutical, medical device, or high-tech manufacturing)
  • Preferred Fields of Study: Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or related field)
  • Professional certifications (PE, PMP, Six Sigma) highly valued
  • 3+ years of people management/leadership experience
  • Expertise in cGMP regulations, quality systems, and industry standards
  • Strong project management capabilities to lead cross-functional initiatives
  • Experience with statistical process control, FMEA, DOE, and other quality tools
  • Proficiency in developing and optimizing manufacturing processes and documentation
  • Track record of implementing continuous improvement and cost reduction projects
  • Ability to analyze complex technical issues and develop data-driven solutions
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively across all levels
  • Experience with capital equipment specification, procurement and implementation
  • Knowledge of automation, Industry 4.0, and digital manufacturing technologies
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and mentor engineering talent
  • Strong business acumen and planning capabilities
  • Ability to work in controlled room environments when required
  • Travel required (10-25%) for project support and site collaboration
  • Proficiency with engineering software, MS Office, and manufacturing systems
  • Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies preferred
  • Ability to maintain professional focus in challenging situations
  • Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety and environmental compliance

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