Engineering Director (M/F/D)

Position Overview

We are looking for an experienced and forward-thinking Engineering Director to lead our engineering function across multiple European sites. This role will oversee all engineering activities, deliver capital projects to defined targets, and drive process improvements across production facilities. The successful candidate will ensure optimal plant performance, compliance with food safety and regulatory standards, and foster continuous improvement in efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & Planning

• Develop and execute long-term engineering strategies aligned with business objectives, focusing on equipment optimization, capacity expansion, and cost-effective maintenance.
• Lead the design, installation, and upgrade of processing systems (e.g., cutting, packaging, refrigeration, waste management) in compliance with regulatory requirements.

2. Team Management

• Manage a diverse team of engineers, technicians, and contractors, providing mentorship and fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and accountability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (production, quality, maintenance, procurement) to resolve technical challenges and streamline operations.

3. Project Execution

• Oversee end-to-end delivery of engineering projects, including feasibility studies, budgeting, vendor selection, and execution of capital investments (e.g., new equipment, facility upgrades).
• Ensure adherence to engineering standards, environmental regulations, and food safety protocols.

4. Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Guarantee compliance with food safety laws, sanitary design principles, workplace health and safety regulations, and relevant certifications.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality, reduce waste, and improve energy efficiency through modern practices such as lean manufacturing and predictive maintenance.

Qualifications & Skills

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Environmental) or related field; Master's degree or professional engineering license preferred.
• Certifications related to food industry standards are advantageous.

Experience

• Minimum 15 years of progressive engineering experience in food manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale engineering projects across Europe or internationally.
• Strong knowledge of supplier networks and regulatory frameworks within the food industry.

Soft Skills

• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders and drive change in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving abilities, commercial acumen, and data-driven decision-making.
• Fluency in English; experience working in multicultural teams is a plus.

Legal Requirements

• Eligible to work in Germany/Europe (permanent residency or citizenship required).
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel up to 50% of the time.

Work Environment

• Regular site visits to construction projects and operational plants across Europe.
• Occasional overtime and weekend work during critical project phases.

Please apply directly today!