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Lead Plant Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Covia

Plant Engineer

GA · On-site

Covia is looking for a dynamic Plant Engineer, who will have a positive impact on the Operations ... Manage and lead internal projects, working with multiple departments and contractors * Develop ...

Covia

Plant Engineer

Mauk, GA

Covia is looking for a dynamic Plant Engineer, who will have a positive impact on the Operations ... Manage and lead internal projects, working with multiple departments and contractors * Develop ...

Veolia

Plant Engineer

Johnstown, OH · On-site

The Plant Engineer will lead safety, process, mechanical, and product quality improvements with emphasis on implementing systems to safely obtain consistent output of high quality products at a lower ...

Liberty

Plant Engineer

Riverton, KS · On-site

Lead or support safety training programs as directed. * Develop understanding of plant function and ... Engineering degree from an ABET accredited university preferred. Applicable technical and project ...

Liberty Utilities Co.

Plant Engineer

Riverton, KS · On-site

Lead or support safety training programs as directed. * Develop understanding of plant function and ... Engineering degree from an ABET accredited university preferred. Applicable technical and project ...

Liberty Utilities Co.

Plant Engineer

Riverton, KS

Lead or support safety training programs as directed. * Develop understanding of plant function and ... Engineering degree from an ABET accredited university preferred. Applicable technical and project ...

The Scoular Company

Plant Engineer

Goodland, KS · On-site

The Plant Engineer for the Goodland Crush Plant is responsible for improving and optimizing our ... Identify process improvement opportunities, develop solutions, and lead the implementation of ...

Lubrizol Corporation

Plant Engineer

Clifton, NJ

Our Plant Engineers also lead small capital projects to improve plant performance and reliability, while ensuring compliance with Health, Safety, Environment, and Security (HSES) standards. You'll ...

Lubrizol Corporation

Plant Engineer

Clifton, NJ · On-site

Our Plant Engineers also lead small capital projects to improve plant performance and reliability, while ensuring compliance with Health, Safety, Environment, and Security (HSES) standards. You'll ...

Lubrizol Corporation

Plant Engineer

Clifton, NJ · On-site

Our Plant Engineers also lead small capital projects to improve plant performance and reliability, while ensuring compliance with Health, Safety, Environment, and Security (HSES) standards. You'll ...

Smithfield Foods

Plant Engineer

Wilson, NC

As the leader of the maintenance and engineering department in a fast-paced plant, you'll be at the ... You'll lead the charge in developing and implementing cutting-edge maintenance systems, including ...

TreeHouse Foods, Inc.

Plant Engineer

Marietta, GA · On-site

Plant Engineer About Us: TreeHouse Foods is a leading manufacturer of private label packaged foods ... Lead multiple projects ensuring on time and on budget delivery * Manage all aspects of capital ...

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Plant Engineer

Wilson, NC · On-site

As the leader of the maintenance and engineering department in a fast-paced plant, you'll be at the ... You'll lead the charge in developing and implementing cutting-edge maintenance systems, including ...

TreeHouse Foods

Plant Engineer

Marietta, GA

Plant Engineer About Us: TreeHouse Foods is a leading manufacturer of private label packaged foods ... Lead multiple projects ensuring on time and on budget delivery * Manage all aspects of capital ...

Brightpath Associates LLC

Plant Engineer

Warren, PA · On-site

What You'll Do Using your engineering expertise and independent judgment, you will lead the development, installation, and modification of equipment and infrastructure across the plant. You'll manage ...

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Lead Plant Engineer information

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$47K

$106.9K

$166K

How much do lead plant engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead plant engineer in the United States is $106,886.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $117,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lead Plant Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, process optimization, and a relevant engineering degree, often paired with a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Mastery of CAD software, plant management systems, and familiarity with industry standards like OSHA or ISO certifications are typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you manage teams and coordinate complex projects. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and cost-effective operation of plant facilities while driving continuous improvement.

What does a Lead Plant Engineer do?

A Lead Plant Engineer is responsible for overseeing the design, operation, and maintenance of engineering systems within a manufacturing or industrial plant. They lead teams of engineers and technicians, manage projects to improve plant efficiency, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Additionally, they troubleshoot equipment issues, implement process improvements, and coordinate with other departments to support production goals. Their role is critical in optimizing plant performance and minimizing downtime.

What are some common challenges Lead Plant Engineers face when managing cross-functional projects?

Lead Plant Engineers often encounter challenges coordinating between different departments, such as maintenance, operations, and safety teams, especially when priorities conflict or resources are limited. Effective communication and strong project management skills are crucial for aligning team objectives, managing timelines, and ensuring that all regulatory and safety standards are met. Additionally, adapting to evolving technology and process improvements can require continuous learning and flexibility. Building strong relationships with both internal teams and external vendors is key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Lead Plant Engineer vs Process Engineer?

AspectLead Plant EngineerProcess Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, often with PE licenseBachelor's or Master's in Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentPlant operations, overseeing engineering projectsDesign, optimization, and process development in manufacturing or chemical plants
Industry UsageHeavy industry, manufacturing, chemical plantsManufacturing, chemical, oil & gas industries

The Lead Plant Engineer typically oversees plant operations and manages engineering projects on-site, requiring leadership and operational expertise. In contrast, the Process Engineer focuses on designing and optimizing processes within the plant, often working in a more analytical and development role. Both roles require engineering credentials and are integral to plant efficiency, but their focus and responsibilities differ.

More about Lead Plant Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Lead Plant Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Plant Engineer jobs are:
Lead Plant Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Plant Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,886 per year, or $51.4 per hour.

Assistant Plant Engineer

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Springdale, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

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.
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:
The position summary states the general nature and purpose of the job. Overall accountabilities are defined in this section.
As a key member of our Engineering team, you'll dive deep into data analysis, crafting innovative plans to optimize our production processes. Your mission is to uncover opportunities to drive efficiencies, reduce waste, and cut operating costs, making a direct impact on our bottom line. You'll play a crucial role in the manufacturing of beloved brands like Smithfield, Eckrich, Nathan's Famous, and others, ensuring we meet and exceed the needs of our customers and consumers.
As the Assistant Plant Engineer, reporting to the Plant Engineer, you'll take charge of managing the maintenance and engineering operations within the plant, ensuring the building and equipment remain in top condition. Your efforts will minimize mechanical downtime and keep production lines running at peak efficiency. You'll be at the helm of developing and implementing cutting-edge maintenance systems that align with the principles of High-Performing Manufacturing Organizations (including Preventative/Predictive Maintenance, Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), and more). Your work will help us build a world-class maintenance strategy, contributing directly to our operational success. You will also lead engineering efforts within your location to ensure our manufacturing process remain state of the art in both technology and performance.
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.
  • Engineering Project Development: You'll take charge of capital project development and post-approval management, ensuring projects are delivered on time, on budget, and with minimal disruption to plant operations. Collaborating closely with the Plant Engineer, you'll manage project scheduling and execution, ensuring all projects meet safety, food safety, and environmental standards.
  • Maintenance Systems: You will lead the Maintenance Department in developing and implementing cutting-edge systems aligned with High-Performing Manufacturing Organizations, including Preventive/Predictive Maintenance, Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), and more. By optimizing resource scheduling, you'll ensure maximum work output while minimizing downtime, reducing costs, and boosting plant capacity. The outcome? A significant decrease in unscheduled downtime and a major increase in plant efficiency.
  • Maintenance Staff & Safety You'll empower and lead the maintenance team by delegating tasks, enforcing policies, and ensuring clear work responsibilities are assigned. As the champion of plant safety, you'll drive and enforce safety standards through training, procedure implementation, and continuous monitoring. Your leadership will foster a safer, more productive work environment where employees feel supported and motivated to excel.
  • Solutions & Troubleshooting: You'll be the problem-solving expert the plant relies on! You'll drive long-term solutions while providing daily support to operating teams, troubleshooting issues, analyzing problems, and resolving equipment failures quickly. Your expertise will keep the plant running smoothly with minimal repetitive issues, creating a positive, efficient work atmosphere where challenges are met with swift and effective solutions.
  • Key Performance Indicators: Working with the Plant Engineer, you'll develop and maintain Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track and report maintenance performance, including supplier effectiveness, equipment reliability, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). Your strategic oversight will provide the insights needed to continually improve maintenance operations and drive long-term success. This version speaks directly to you, emphasizing your role in driving innovation, leadership, and improvement in every area of the plant's operations.
  • People Management: Drives a positive employee experience through leadership by way of employee development and coaching.

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 or related field and 5+ years of related experience in a manufacturing environment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
  • 2+ years' experience in a position of leadership to include team development and management, required.
  • Possess thorough knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and CMMS systems.
  • Possess advanced technical skills in the mechanical and/or electrical fields (e.g. PLCs, instrumentation, mechanical systems, etc).
  • Must be able to lead resource planning and management efforts in a large manufacturing environment.
  • Thorough knowledge of maintenance systems, work order process, preventive/predictive maintenance, TPM, etc.
  • Ability to use exposure monitoring equipment, interpret and communicate results.
  • Capable of communicating and expressing ideas clearly and concisely, in both written and oral formats.
  • Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong interpersonal, technical and presentation skills required.
  • May be required to work long hours and weekends.

OTHER SKILLS THAT MAKE YOU STAND OUT:
  • Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
  • Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

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.
  • Office and plant setting. 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.
  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Specific vision includes close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear.

IndSPR-M/E
Relocation Package AvailableNo
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.
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