Plant Engineering Projects Leader

Within our manufacturing facility in Fort Morgan – Leprino is seeking a Plant Engineering Projects Leader to move our organization to even larger levels of cheese and dairy ingredient growth! We take pride in our vision to be "world's best", it is why we work harder, invest more, and continually innovate.

At Leprino, starting compensation for this role typically ranges between $89,000 and $107,000. This position has an annual target bonus of 10%.

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

• Lead plant capital projects from concept through startup, including design, equipment selection, construction, and installation.
• Build and prepare Authorization for Expenditure (AFE) packages with accurate cost analysis, budgets, and schedules.
• Write and review specifications, layouts, and technical drawings while ensuring they align with regulatory standards (OSHA, FDA, building codes).
• Coordinate project work with production schedules to reduce downtime and keep operations running smoothly.
• Collaborate closely with maintenance, engineering, and production teams to develop ideas that support plant improvements.
• Supervise contractors and consulting services, inspecting completed work for quality and compliance.
• Develop CAD designs and update mechanical, electrical, and process safety drawings to reflect new projects.
• Maintain project documentation, drawings, and reports with accuracy and efficiency.
• Encourage process improvements that enhance safety, sanitation, and repair/maintenance access in equipment and plant design.
• Support plant operations by ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and with the intended results!

YOU HAVE AT LEAST (REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS):

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, chemical, electrical engineering, or a related field; or similar work experience in food manufacturing.
• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably food production.
• 1+ year of experience leading, mentoring, or delegating work to others.
• Working knowledge of plant control systems including PLCs and industrial automation software.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Project along with basic AutoCAD and P&ID software.

WE HOPE YOU ALSO HAVE (PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS):

• A master’s degree in engineering or related technical field.
• Prior project leadership in dairy or cheese manufacturing.
• Advanced CAD design experience and familiarity with sanitary design principles.
• Demonstrated experience coordinating large-scale capital projects in a food production setting.

At Leprino, we believe in equal employment opportunity and make employment decisions based on each individual’s unique talents, experience, skills, and knowledge; we do not discriminate on the basis of any personal characteristics. We know we are better together and are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive culture in which all employees can thrive.

OFFERING YOU IN RETURN:

A chance to be part of a global team of individuals passionate about producing and delivering high-quality products that help feed and nourish families around the world. Leprino could not be where it is today without our incredible employees. That is why we share in our success together by rewarding you for your hard work. Hiring great people who are in it for the long run is our goal. Through competitive salaries and bonuses, life, medical/dental/vision coverage, voluntary benefits, employee assistance programs, wellness incentives, tuition assistance, vacation, ten paid holidays, sick time, paid parental leave, annual merit increases, as well as the LFC Profit-Sharing & 401(k) plan. Your impact will be noticed and rewarded, as you seek to further our company, our customers, and one another.

OUR STORY:

Leprino’s history dates back to the 1950s, when Jim Leprino first started making small batches of mozzarella for local markets and eateries in the Little Italy neighborhood of Denver. We’ve grown a bit since then. Today, Leprino is the world’s largest manufacturer of mozzarella and lactose, and a leading producer of whey protein. Still owned by the Leprino family, our sights are set to be the “World’s Best Dairy Food and Ingredient Company.” From a small corner grocery store we have grown to over 5,500 employees throughout the globe. Will you join us on our journey?