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AAK USA, INC. Engineering Manager- Richmond, CA

Making Better Happen

Our story goes back more than 150 years, to the windy coast where Sweden and Denmark meet. From our success in Scandinavia, we've grown into the world's leading specialist producer of plant-based oils, employing more than 4000 people all across the globe. We work with our customers to make the products you love even better. The oils we produce go into making your chocolate extra creamy or putting the crunch into your croissant. And it''s not just food - we work across industries to make products that are higher quality, healthier and better for the planet. Every one of us works towards our shared purpose: Making Better Happen. Build a better future as an Engineering Manager in Richmond, CA.

Compensation Range: $170,197 - $283,662 • Possible Bonus: 10%

About The Role

The Engineering Manager will lead a team of technical resources in the planning, design, and execution of capital and improvement projects. The manager will also lead the team in helping to resolve technical issues that are happening in the facility. This position ensures that all projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality, safety, and performance while engaging the team as a resource to technical issues that develop in the facility. This role combines strong project management skills with deep technical knowledge and a passion for developing people and improving processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, budgeting, design, execution, and completion of capital and plant improvement projects
• Ensure projects meet safety, quality, timing, and cost expectations
• Evaluate technical feasibility and recommend improvements in systems, processes, and equipment related to oil processing (refining, bleaching, deodorizing)
• Lead team in solutions to ongoing technical issues in the facility
• Manage, mentor, and develop the engineering team
• Set clear performance goals and regularly evaluate progress through formal performance reviews and ongoing feedback
• Identify skills gaps and training needs; develop and execute technical training plans to enhance team capability
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional growth
• Partner with operations, maintenance, quality, EH&S, procurement, and leadership to ensure project alignment with plant priorities
• Lead cross-functional meetings and communicate project status updates effectively
• Ensure all projects comply with internal standards, local and national codes, food safety regulations, OSHA, and EPA guidelines
• Maintain thorough documentation including scopes of work, engineering drawings, equipment specifications, budgets, and change controls

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, chemical or industrial engineering is preferred
• 10+ years of engineering experience, preferably in food, chemical, or edible oil manufacturing
• 3+ years experience managing capital projects and leading engineering teams
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively communicate with project team members and stakeholders
• Attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy in managing project documentation
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and address risks and issues
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, as well as independently with minimal supervision
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and work effectively with individuals at all levels of an organization
• Preferred Skills: Familiarity with Procore; Proficient in project management tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, AutoCAD, etc.)

About AAK and Benefits

In return AAK offers career paths, training and development, e-learning and tuition reimbursement programs. Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental and vision) starting date of hire. Health Savings Account with AAK annual contribution of $1,000-$1,500. 401(k) match program. Life and Disability insurance. Employee Assistance Program. Supplemental Pet Insurance, Identity Theft Protection and Legal Insurance Plans. Discounts on travel, amusement parks, concerts, movies, and more. Celebrations, events, and activities on site and supporting our communities. Recognition incentives for service and peer-to-peer recognition.

About AAK

Everything AAK does is about Making Better Happen. We specialize in plant-based oils that are the value-adding ingredients in many of the products people love to consume. We make these products better tasting, healthier, and more sustainable. We are a Nasdaq Stockholm-listed company with 4,000 employees and operations worldwide.

EEO statement: AAK prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, religion, veteran status, and any other class protected by law in any employment decision.

Seniority level: Mid-Senior level

Employment type: Full-time

Job function: Engineering and Information Technology

Industries: Food Production