Engineering Manager

Job SummaryThe Engineering Manager is responsible for leading technical improvements at the Eustis, FL food manufacturing facility. This role owns the safety, reliability, and performance of plant assets and processes while leading a small, high‑impact team of engineers. The position partners closely with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, EH&S, and Corporate Engineering to enhance the Company’s position as a high-quality producer with a competitive cost structure. The ideal candidate combines strong people-leadership, technical depth of knowledge, and disciplined capital project execution. The candidate also needs to be able to thrive being hands‑on and actively solving problems in a fast‑paced, regulated manufacturing environment.Minimum RequirementsFour (4) year B.S. degree in a core Engineering discipline required (e.g. Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical)7-10+ years of experience in Industry, preferably in process-heavy, food manufacturing facilities3-5 years of experience leading and developing technical teamsExperience with MS Office applications, particularly ExcelExperience with MS Project (or alternate scheduling software) and CADSkills, Traits, And CompetenciesStrong knowledge of food processing equipment, automation, and sanitary design principles.Familiarity with GMP, HACCP, FDA, USDA, and other food industry regulations.Knowledge of various engineering disciplines including process, process controls, design & construction.Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.Ability to influence cross-functional teams and maintain progress/alignment on initiativesStrong work ethic and sense of urgencyHigh energy, positive attitude, hands-on; with the ability to keep multiple projects and priorities on trackKey Duties And ResponsibilitiesSafety, Quality & ComplianceSupport execution of the site safety programs including behavior-based inspections, reducing risk through small safety projects, and ensuring new equipment is installed safelyEnsure compliance with food manufacturing standards including sanitary design, GMPs, and change management.Assist the Quality and Operations teams with reducing quality losses and wasteTeam Leadership & DevelopmentLead, develop, and coach a small team of engineers to deliver consistent, high‑quality results.Set clear expectations, prioritize work, and hold the team accountable to safety, quality, and delivery commitments.Build technical depth and succession readiness through mentoring, training, and hands‑on involvement.Foster a culture of ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement.Capital ExecutionPlan, design, and lead capital projects including development, cost/benefit analysis, construction management, and commissioningManage multiple concurrent projects including new equipment installations, line upgrades, capacity expansions, and infrastructure improvements.Own project scope, schedule, budget, risk management, and contractor performance.Ensure effective handoff of projects to Operations and Maintenance, including documentation, training, and spare parts strategy.Continuous ImprovementAnalyze current operations to identify opportunities for profit enhancement through waste reduction, yield improvement, cost savings, and efficiency (e.g. OEE) improvementsProvide technical leadership for root cause analysis of equipment failures, chronic losses, and food safety risks.Assist the Maintenance team with developing and maintaining RCM/preventative maintenance plans and activities to reduce downtime.Provide technical guidance to assist site teams with solving day-to-day operational issuesDevelop and implement standard operating procedures that drive consistency and improvementCollaborate with R&D, Production, and Quality for new startup/trial/sample runs and optimization activitiesPerform other related duties as necessaryWorking ConditionsThis position should expect to spend a significant amount of time on the floor, with plant employees, contractors, and processes.Travel: although the position is largely based at the Eustis, FL facility; the employee should expect occasional travel to assist with opportunities at other sites, visit equipment vendors, etc.Requires the ability to work in a manufacturing environment subject to varying temperatures and levels of noise.Ability to lift up to 50lbs and navigate stairs and ladders in a safe mannerVibrant Ingredients, headquartered in Lake Mary, FL, is one of the world's leading independent providers of natural ingredients. With a legacy spanning over 70 years, we deliver a diverse portfolio of clean label ingredients and innovative system solutions to the food and beverage industry. Our commitment to quality and performance is reflected in our American-made products, which enhance both taste and functionality. Backed by advanced manufacturing capabilities, we specialize in fermentation, patented cold brew extraction, custom flavor development, and a range of drying and blending technologies. Operating from four state-of-the-art facilities strategically located across the U.S., we ensure the accessibility of real, high-quality ingredients—helping our customers create better-for-you food and beverage for consumers."Improving the food and beverages consumed by providing real ingredients from nature that work."This position is currently classified as on-site.Employees are eligible to participate in Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, 401(k), Holidays, Vacation, Tuition Reimbursement Program.The final salary offered for this position may take into account a number of factors including, but not limited to, location, skills, education, and experience.The Company reserves the right to modify, update, change and/or make corrections to this job description, at the sole discretion of senior management, at any time during the employee’s employment term, at the sole discretion of management.EEO StatementVibrant Ingredients is an equal opportunity employer committed to employing a diverse workforce and providing accommodations for people with disabilities in all parts of the hiring process as required under its Employment Accommodation Policy. Vibrant Ingredients will work with applicants to meet accommodation needs that are made known to Vibrant Ingredients in advance.Please no external recruiters**