Job Details

Position Summary:
Calbee America is committed to delivering continuous innovation and exciting new snack products to our customers and consumers. The Corporate Director of Engineering leads the Engineering function, directing capital planning and project execution across the organization. This role ensures efficient, cost-effective, and compliant engineering solutions that support Calbee America's growth, innovation, and operational excellence.

Responsibilities:

Capital Projects & Process Improvement

• Lead planning, execution, and completion of large- and small-scale CAPEX projects (equipment installations, facility expansions, process optimization), ensuring delivery on time, on budget, and to specification.
• Oversee the design and implementation of engineering solutions that improve efficiency, product quality, and sustainability in snack food manufacturing.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Manage, mentor, and develop corporate engineers, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
• Partner with production, QA, and R&D to align engineering initiatives with business objectives and ensure compliance with food safety and regulatory standards.

Strategic & Financial Planning

• Develop and execute long-term engineering strategies supporting capacity expansion and technological advancement.
• Prepare and manage engineering budgets, ensuring cost-effective capital and operational solutions.

Other Responsibilities

• Travel to manufacturing sites and supplier locations (25-30%) for project oversight, site assessments, and vendor collaboration.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, FDA, HACCP, SQF, and other regulatory requirements.
• Participate in annual food safety system reviews.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 10 years' experience in the food industry, with strong expertise in snack food manufacturing.
• Proven record leading large-scale CAPEX projects (equipment upgrades, facility expansions, automation initiatives).
• Experience managing engineering teams and partnering cross-functionally across operations, QA & R&D.

• Strong project management expertise in budgeting, scheduling, and risk management.
• Deep knowledge of food processing technologies, equipment, and industry best practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and related tools.

• Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or process improvement experience (preferred).
• Familiarity with snack production methods (frying, baking, extrusion) preferred.
• PMP or advanced engineering certifications (preferred).

*Based in Madera or Fairfield, CA with regular travel to other sites (10-30%)

Calbee North America is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, citizenship, ancestry, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or familial status or any other legally protected status.