Plant Optimization Engineer Jobs in Racine, WI (NOW HIRING)

Greif is seeking a Plant Engineering Manager to lead the mill's engineering, process optimization, automation, and capital project initiatives at our Milwaukee paper mill. This strategic leadership role is responsible for improving long-term mill performance through continuous improvement, data-driven decision making, and execution of projects that enhance safety, quality, reliability, throughput, and cost performance. This role is ideal for a technically strong engineering leader who thrives on solving complex manufacturing challenges, advancing automation capabilities, and driving meaningful operational improvements.

The Plant Engineering Manager partners closely with Operations, Maintenance, EHS, and Quality while leading a small, high-impact technical team focused on delivering sustainable business results.

As Plant Engineering Manager, you will provide leadership and direction for the mill's engineering and technical improvement efforts, including oversight of the Controls Engineer and Process/Project Engineer. You will identify opportunities to improve process performance, reduce variability, optimize automation systems, and execute capital projects that strengthen the mill's competitive position. You will play a key role in shaping the future performance of the operation by leveraging technology, engineering expertise, and cross-functional collaboration to drive continuous improvement.

• Lead initiatives that improve machine efficiency, fiber utilization, throughput, and manufacturing costs.
• Analyze process data and operating trends to reduce variability and improve product consistency.
• Facilitate structured problem-solving efforts to eliminate chronic process losses and performance constraints.
• Identify and implement opportunities that improve operational performance and long-term reliability.

• Provide leadership and direction for mill automation and process control systems.
• Partner with the Controls Engineer to optimize DCS and PLC systems.
• Improve control loop performance, process stability, and overall system effectiveness.
• Reduce manual intervention through automation enhancements and process control improvements.
• Identify, prioritize, and implement automation upgrades that support business objectives.

• Develop and execute capital projects aligned with mill and business priorities.
• Identify debottlenecking opportunities that increase production capacity and operational efficiency.
• Manage projects from concept through implementation, ensuring delivery on time and within budget.
• Minimize operational disruption during project execution.
• Track, measure, and validate project results and performance improvements.

• Optimize paper machine, stock preparation, and converting processes.
• Support process trials, equipment evaluations, and new product development initiatives.
• Apply technical expertise and data analytics to drive informed decision making.
• Provide technical guidance and recommendations to support operational excellence.

• Partner with Production, Maintenance, Quality, and EHS teams to achieve plant goals.
• Align engineering initiatives with operational priorities and business objectives.
• Support successful implementation and sustainability of process improvements.
• Foster strong communication and collaboration across departments.

• Lead, coach, and develop the Controls Engineer and Process/Project Engineer.
• Establish priorities based on operational and business impact.
• Promote accountability, innovation, and continuous learning.
• Build technical capability and support succession planning within the engineering team.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering required.
• Experience in paper manufacturing or a similar process manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of process systems, manufacturing operations, and industrial automation.
• Experience working with DCS, PLC, and process control systems.
• Proven project management experience with successful capital project execution.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and influence cross-functional stakeholders.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Excellent communication and organizational abilities.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

This role directly impacts mill performance, operational reliability, process capability, and long-term competitiveness. As Plant Engineering Manager, you will help shape the future of the Milwaukee mill by advancing automation, improving process performance, executing strategic capital investments, and developing engineering talent that supports sustainable growth.

At Greif, your work supports essential products and customers around the world. We are a global leader in industrial packaging products and services, committed to safety, operational excellence, and developing our people. If you are looking for an opportunity to lead meaningful engineering initiatives, influence mill performance, and drive continuous improvement in a complex manufacturing environment, we encourage you to apply.

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