Process Engineering Manager - Food Manufacturing

SUMMARYThe Process Engineering Manager leads and oversees the technical operations initiatives of a fairly new manufacturing facility specializing in the aseptic processing of food products. This role requires strong technical processing expertise and 5+ years of experience in aseptic food and beverage operations. The Process Engineering Manager is responsible for safe, high-quality, compliant, and efficient production, while driving continuous improvement, cost control, and operational excellence. As a strategic leader, the role focuses on improving processes, ensuring strong operational performance, delivering excellent customer service, and building a positive culture that develops employees.RESPONSIBILITIESLead all processes ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant aseptic manufacturing.Provide technical leadership for UHT/HTST processing, aseptic filling, CIP/SIP, contamination control, and hygienic design.Help design, implement, and validate aseptic processing technologies, filling lines, and sterilization techniques.Ensure full compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory standards (FDA, FSMA, FSSC 22000, HACCP, GMP).Serve as site leader for regulatory inspections, third-party audits, and customer audits.Oversee process validation, aseptic qualifications, shelf-life studies, and new product introductions.Manage allergen control programs in a multi-product aseptic environment.Lead capital projects including aseptic line expansions, equipment upgrades, and technology implementation.Collaborate with R&D, Quality, and Commercial teams to support growth in coffee, tea, juice, plant-based, acidified dairy, and nutritional products.Help build a high-performance culture focused on accountability, engagement, and long-term operational excellence.REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONSTechnical bachelor’s degree, engineering preferred, chemical engineering highly preferred.8+ years of experience in food and beverage manufacturing with deep expertise in aseptic processing.Prior experience in the high-speed food manufacturing industry is preferred.In-depth knowledge of R&D, commercialization and food safety regulations is strongly preferred.Hands-on experience with coffees/teas, juice & other plant-based, acidified dairy and nutritional products.PREFERRED SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONSStrong understanding of UHT, aseptic filling, and hygienic design.Experience with allergen control and nutritional formulations.Excellent leadership, communication, and business acumen.Proven experience as an operations change agent within a manufacturing facility.