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Meat Processing Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

... meat snacks, sandwiches, bacon, corn dogs, and baked goods. Established in 2004 and headquartered ... This role will collaborate closely with Engineering and Manufacturing business leaders to architect ...

... meat snacks, sandwiches, bacon, corn dogs, and baked goods. Established in 2004 and headquartered ... This role will collaborate closely with Engineering and Manufacturing business leaders to architect ...

Line Cook

Nashville, TN · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

... flowing process. * Peeling and chopping vegetables. * Preparing cuts of meat, Filleting and ... S.-based real estate developer and operator of private residential club communities and resorts ...

... flowing process. * Peeling and chopping vegetables. * Preparing cuts of meat, Filleting and ... S.-based real estate developer and operator of private residential club communities and resorts ...

Meat Processing Engineer information

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often leadership roles or working in high-paying industries or companies.

What are some common challenges faced by Meat Processing Engineers during production line optimization?

Meat Processing Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing efficiency improvements with strict food safety regulations, managing equipment maintenance to minimize downtime, and optimizing workflows without compromising product quality. They must collaborate closely with quality assurance, maintenance, and production teams to identify bottlenecks and implement solutions that meet both productivity and safety standards. Additionally, adapting to new technologies or process changes requires continuous learning and effective communication across departments.

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

To excel as a Meat Processing Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, food science, and meat processing technologies, usually supported by a relevant degree such as mechanical, industrial, or food engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, automated processing systems, and regulatory standards like HACCP is essential, and certifications in food safety are highly valued. Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and optimize production processes. These abilities ensure product quality, operational efficiency, and compliance with safety and industry regulations in a highly technical and regulated environment.

What is the difference between Meat Processing Engineer vs Meat Quality Assurance Technician?

AspectMeat Processing EngineerMeat Quality Assurance Technician
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in food safetyFood safety certifications, quality assurance training
Work EnvironmentProcessing plants, engineering labsQuality control labs, processing facilities
Industry UsageDesigning and optimizing processing systemsMonitoring quality, ensuring compliance

While both roles work within the meat industry, Meat Processing Engineers focus on designing and improving processing systems, whereas Meat Quality Assurance Technicians concentrate on maintaining product quality and safety. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right career path or hiring needs within meat production facilities.

Who are the Big 4 in the meat industry?

The Big 4 in the meat industry typically refer to Tyson Foods, JBS, Cargill, and Smithfield Foods, which are the largest meat processing companies globally. Meat processing engineers often work for these companies, focusing on automation, quality control, and food safety standards within large-scale facilities.

What does a food processing engineer do?

A meat processing engineer designs, develops, and improves methods for processing meat products, ensuring safety, quality, and efficiency. They work with equipment, oversee production processes, and implement food safety standards, often using tools like HACCP and automation systems.

How much money do meat processors make?

Meat processing engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and employer size. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills in automation or quality control can earn higher wages, often exceeding $90,000 annually.

What are Meat Processing Engineers?

Meat Processing Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and oversee processes and equipment used in the production, packaging, and distribution of meat and meat products. They work to ensure efficiency, safety, and quality throughout the meat processing chain, from slaughtering to packaging. Their role often includes implementing automation, maintaining food safety standards, and optimizing production lines to reduce waste and costs.
What are popular job titles related to Meat Processing Engineer jobs in Tennessee? For Meat Processing Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Meat Processing Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Meat Processing Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Meat Processing Engineer jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Meat Processing Engineer job openings:
Project Engineering Manager (Relocation)

Project Engineering Manager (Relocation)

Smithfield Foods

Nashville, TN

Full-time

Posted 11 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:

Join our Engineering team and become a driving force in transforming production processes to maximize efficiency and minimize waste-directly impacting our bottom line and helping us stay at the cutting edge of the industry. You'll analyze data, draft strategic implementation plans, and tackle challenges head-on to optimize operations, all while playing a key role in the manufacturing of our iconic brands like Smithfield, Eckrich, Nathan's Famous, and more. Your work will be essential in meeting the ever-evolving needs of our customers and consumers!

As a Project Engineering Manager, you'll apply your expertise in science and mathematics to lead and execute large-scale, complex technical projects within the pork and packaged meat industry. With the opportunity to lead a team of talented engineers either directly and indirectly, you'll oversee the design, development, and implementation of innovative solutions. Your experience will allow you to work independently on most tasks, stepping in for guidance only on the most intricate challenges. Using your deep knowledge, you'll spot potential risks and trends early, proactively crafting effective solutions to keep projects on track and drive success across the board.

This is your chance to have a huge impact, drive innovation, and shape the future of one of the nation's leading consumer packaged goods companies!

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.

  • Design Work: You'll develop engineering designs, material specs, and project cost estimates. Conducts feasibility studies and economic analysis to support designs. You'll ensure designs meet required standards and codes and validate field work and create as-built drawings. You'll also review engineering submissions for accuracy and completeness. Manage project execution by directing vendors and contractors. Coordinate project schedules with plant personnel, vendors, and contractors. Collaborate with management and engineering teams to implement plans.

  • Design Implementation: You'll partner with vendors and contractors to plan layouts and meet utility requirements. Review consultant work and recommend adjustments and maintain documentation (manuals, drawings, specs, etc.) and vendor contacts.

  • Reports and Proposals: You'll also conduct planning and reviews during pre-project phases. Define scope of work, prepare and evaluate proposals. Submit regular reports to management on project status.

  • Bid Review and Project Preparation: Manage contract administration and reviews bid packages. You'll also prepare project documents (budget analyses, plans, schedules, etc.) and monitor installations to ensure they meet specifications and stay within budget.

  • 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 relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.

  • 2+ years' experience in a position of leadership to include team development and management, required.

  • Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues.

  • Knowledge of installation and construction project scheduling.

  • Must possess Project Management skills; Contract Administration skills; National codes and standards interpretation skills.

  • Proficient in AutoCAD.

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office.

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, organizational planning, teamwork, analytical reasoning, and adaptability.

  • Energized by collaboration through travel to other locations. (50% of the time).

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.

  • Proficient in engineering economics.

  • Previous experience in the management of multi-million-dollar projects with large scopes, desirable.

  • Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry, preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:

  • The majority of the time is spent in an office setting outside of the production plant. 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.

  • Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision and ability to adjust focus.

  • Frequently required to sit, use hands, and talk or hear.

IndSPR-Corp

Relocation Package Available Yes

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.

Check out this video to learn more about this role!