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Plant Engineering Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Engineering Manager

Muscatine, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Sr. Engineering Manager will play a critical role in transforming the site into the factory of ... Oversee maintenance of plant equipment, buildings, and other assets to protect these assets and ...

PLANT ENGINEER

Council Bluffs, IA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsible for the leadership, management, and development of 5 Maintenance Supervisors and a ... Align with Corporate Engineering to ensure standardization and best practice sharing of engineering ...

Senior Plant Engineer

Mason City, IA

$88K - $121K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As the leader of engineering activities, you will ensure our facilities remain a state-of-the-art ... Manage and schedule all project elements to ensure minimal disruption to plant operations ...

Sr Manager Design Engineering

Le Claire, IA · On-site

$183K - $204K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Active SRO license, inactive SRO license, SRO certification or plant operational knowledge consistent with the requirements of the engineering manager's job * Must meet additional requirements as ...

Sr Manager Design Engineering

Davenport, IA · On-site

$183K - $204K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Active SRO license, inactive SRO license, SRO certification or plant operational knowledge consistent with the requirements of the engineering manager's job * Must meet additional requirements as ...

Sr Manager Design Engineering

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$183K - $204K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Active SRO license, inactive SRO license, SRO certification or plant operational knowledge consistent with the requirements of the engineering manager's job * Must meet additional requirements as ...

Sr Manager Design Engineering

Clinton, IA · On-site

$183K - $204K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Active SRO license, inactive SRO license, SRO certification or plant operational knowledge consistent with the requirements of the engineering manager's job * Must meet additional requirements as ...

Senior Plant Engineer

Mason City, IA · On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As the leader of engineering activities, you will ensure our facilities remain a state-of-the-art ... In this role, you won't just manage maintenance--you'll elevate it to new levels of efficiency and ...

Senior Plant Engineer

Mason City, IA · On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As the leader of engineering activities, you will ensure our facilities remain a state-of-the-art ... In this role, you won't just manage maintenance-you'll elevate it to new levels of efficiency and ...

Plant Manager

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$185K - $280K/yr

The Plant Manager is responsible for full-site leadership and oversight of all operational ... An advanced degree (MBA or Engineering) preferred. Experience: * 15+ years of operational ...

Plant Manager

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$185K - $280K/yr

The Plant Manager is responsible for full-site leadership and oversight of all operational ... An advanced degree (MBA or Engineering) preferred. Experience: * 15+ years of operational ...

Assistant Plant Manager

Monona, IA · On-site

$36 - $44/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In the Assistant Plant Manager role you will support the Plant Manager in overseeing construction ... Coordinates with engineering, customer service, and technical support teams to ensure timely ...

New

The Plant Manager drives a culture centered on safety, quality, operational excellence ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Food Science, Operations Management, Business, or a related ...

Plant Manager

Tipton, IA · On-site

$140K - $165K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Plant Manager Summary As the Plant Manager, you will lead the overall performance and continued ... degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience ...

Plant Manager

Tipton, IA · On-site

$140K - $165K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Plant Manager Summary As the Plant Manager, you will lead the overall performance and continued ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or related field (or equivalent ...

Showing results 21-40

Plant Engineering Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$65.3K

$119.9K

$156.4K

How much do plant engineering manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant engineering manager in Iowa is $119,923.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,200.00 and $133,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Plant Engineering Manager vs Maintenance Supervisor?

AspectPlant Engineering ManagerMaintenance Supervisor
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like PE or CMMS experienceHigh school diploma or associate degree, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees engineering projects, plant systems, and process improvementsManages daily maintenance activities and team supervision
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, energy, chemical plantsFactories, production facilities, industrial plants

The Plant Engineering Manager focuses on engineering projects, system design, and process optimization, while the Maintenance Supervisor handles daily maintenance tasks and team management. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plant engineering manager?

To thrive as a Plant Engineering Manager, you need a solid background in engineering disciplines (typically mechanical, electrical, or industrial), a bachelor's degree in engineering, and significant experience in plant operations or maintenance management. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, maintenance management systems (CMMS), and relevant industry certifications like PMP or Six Sigma is commonly required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills set standout managers apart by enabling effective team management and cross-functional collaboration. These competencies ensure efficient operations, minimize downtime, and drive continuous improvement within the plant environment.

What are some common challenges faced by plant engineering managers, and how are they typically addressed?

Plant Engineering Managers often encounter challenges such as ensuring equipment reliability, managing large-scale projects within tight deadlines, and balancing maintenance needs with production goals. They address these by implementing preventive maintenance programs, fostering strong communication with cross-functional teams, and utilizing project management tools to track progress and resources. Additionally, staying current with industry best practices and continuous improvement methodologies, such as Lean or Six Sigma, helps them drive operational efficiency while minimizing downtime.

What does a plant engineering manager do?

A plant engineering manager oversees the maintenance, operation, and improvement of manufacturing plant equipment and systems. They coordinate engineering projects, ensure safety and compliance standards are met, and manage teams of engineers and technicians. Strong knowledge of industrial processes, safety regulations, and technical skills are essential for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Plant Engineering Manager jobs in Iowa?

For Plant Engineering Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plant Engineering Manager jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Plant Engineering Manager jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Plant Engineering Manager jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Plant Engineering Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Plant Engineering Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,923 per year, or $57.7 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 21 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 dynamic Engineering team and become a key player in driving innovation and efficiency! You'll dive into data analysis and craft implementation plans that optimize production processes, ensuring we maximize resources and minimize waste-directly impacting our operating costs. Your contributions will power the manufacturing of iconic brands like Smithfield, Eckrich, Nathan's Famous, and more, helping us meet the demands of customers and consumers alike.

As the leader of the maintenance and engineering department in a fast-paced plant, you'll be at the forefront of maintaining top-tier building and equipment performance. By reducing mechanical downtime and ensuring seamless product flow, you'll keep our production lines running at peak efficiency. You'll lead the charge in developing and implementing cutting-edge maintenance systems, including Preventative and Predictive Maintenance, TPM, and more, driving our plant to new heights as part of a High Performing Manufacturing Organization. Secondly as the leader of engineering activities you will ensure our facilities remain a state-of-the-art food manufacturing process, developing and executing highly innovative technology projects. In this role, you won't just manage maintenance-you'll elevate it to new levels of efficiency and innovation!

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: Take ownership of capital projects from concept to completion! You'll manage and schedule all project elements to ensure minimal disruption to plant operations, delivering projects on time, on budget, and without compromising safety, food safety, or environmental standards. Your leadership will bring exciting new developments to life and enhance plant capabilities.

  • Maintenance Systems: Lead the charge in developing and implementing cutting-edge maintenance systems that keep our plant operating at peak performance. You'll be the driving force behind Preventive and Predictive Maintenance, TPM, and other high-impact strategies, ensuring optimal scheduling that maximizes task completion with minimal downtime. Your efforts will fuel greater plant efficiency, reduce disruptions, and create a more seamless, productive operation.

  • Maintenance Staff and Safety: As a leader, you'll inspire and manage the maintenance team by delegating tasks, enforcing policies, and guiding work assignments. Your ability to organize, plan, and follow through ensures work is completed efficiently and safely. By championing a safety-first culture and enforcing company policies, you'll keep the team aligned with Smithfield's goals while maintaining full compliance with federal and state regulations.

  • Solutions: Become the ultimate problem solver by providing both short-term fixes and long-term solutions to everyday operational challenges. Whether troubleshooting, conducting problem analysis, or addressing equipment failures, you'll ensure the smooth daily operation of the plant with minimal recurring issues. Your proactive approach will keep production lines humming and help us stay ahead of potential obstacles.

  • Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Drive continuous improvement by developing and tracking Key Performance Indicators that measure the success of the maintenance function. From equipment reliability to supplier performance and overall equipment effectiveness, your insights will be crucial for maintaining peak performance across all areas of the plant.

  • Leadership and Flexibility: When key personnel are absent, you'll step in seamlessly, ensuring that all tasks are completed or delegated appropriately. Your leadership ensures that all responsibilities are handled with precision, guaranteeing smooth and uninterrupted plant 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 8+ years' relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.

  • 2+ years of demonstrated experience in team management/development or project leadership is required

  • High level of leadership skills, organizational planning, teamwork, analytical reasoning, and adaptability.

  • Possess advanced technical skills in the mechanical/electrical fields (e.g. PLCs, instrumentation, mechanical engineering, etc.) and is able to lead resource planning 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.

  • Demonstrated knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel and Word.

  • 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:

  • 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 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!