Project Engineer

Smithfield Foods

. Develop preliminary engineering designs and material specifications.

Posted 10/15/2026full-timeUnited StatesJuniorMid-LevelWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in engineering design, project management, and contract administration, with a strong focus on compliance with national codes and standards. Proficient in AutoCAD and engineering economics, with a solid understanding of the meat processing industry.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Bachelor’s Degree In EngineeringProject Management SkillsContract Administration SkillsProficient In AutoCADKnowledge Of Meat Processing

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Engineering DesignCost EstimationFeasibility StudiesField WorkAs-Built DrawingsEngineering EconomicsProject SchedulingScope DefinitionProposal EvaluationBudget Management

Soft Skills

Excellent Communication SkillsOrganizational PlanningTeamworkAnalytical ReasoningAdaptability

Tools & Technologies

AutoCADMicrosoft Office Suite

Industry Keywords

National CodesStandards InterpretationFood ProcessingMeat IndustryInstallation Scheduling

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop preliminary engineering designs and material specifications.
Prepare project cost estimates and conduct research, feasibility studies, and economic analysis for designs.
Determine design criteria based on required standards and codes.
Perform field work and translate completed projects into as-built drawings.
Review engineering projects submitted by plants for accuracy and compliance.
Act as project manager when needed.
Collaborate with management and engineering staff to implement plans.
Coordinate with equipment vendors to plan layouts and ensure installation schedules are met.
Review consultants’ work and recommend necessary adjustments.
Conduct engineering planning, design, and operational studies during pre-project phases.
Define scope of work and prepare and evaluate proposals.
Submit weekly status reports to management on schedule.
Assist with contract administration and review bid packages.
Prepare project documents, including justifications, budget analyses, and schedules.
Monitor installations to ensure they meet specifications and stay within budget.
Manage assigned budget activities.
Provide training and guidance to other Project Engineers or Plant staff when acting as a lead.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering, Engineering Management, or related field and 2+ years of experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues.
Project Management skills.
Contract Administration skills.
National codes and standards interpretation skills.
Proficient in engineering economics.
Proficient in AutoCAD.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
Excellent written and oral communication skills, organizational planning, teamwork, analytical reasoning and adaptability.
Strong knowledge of meat processing, case ready and packaged meats.
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.
Knowledge of installation and construction project scheduling.
Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry, preferred.

Benefits

Comp & perks

Relocation package available
Opportunities for learning, collaboration, and innovation
Career growth opportunities
Travel to other locations (50% of the time)