JOB SUMMARYThe Director of Engineering is responsible for the successful execution of the company’s business strategy through development, deployment, and performance of all engineering & automation related strategies.  This role will lead the Jack Link’s Engineering team to develop automation projects in collaboration with manufacturing plants and distribution centers and other functions/colleagues and will also provide hands-on support for implementation.  The Director will be a thought leader, responsible for driving a culture of innovation to stay ahead of competitors and develop cutting-edge improvements for the organization.  This key leader will also be responsible for the development of our technological vision and ensuring it is appropriately applied to capital projects, plant modifications or other enhancements. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Manage, direct, and support the Engineering team by providing strategic guidance, best practices, leadership, and mentoring.Lead the team to develop automation projects in collaboration with sites and other functions/colleagues and will also provide hands-on support for implementation as needed.Work closely with operations leadership and stakeholders in other departments to identify, recommend, develop, implement, and support engineering and automation-oriented solutions to optimize business processes and overall company performance.Responsible for driving a culture of innovation to stay ahead of competitors and develop cutting edge improvements for the organization from both a short-term and long-term basis. Responsible for the development of engineering vision and ensuring it is appropriately applied to capital projects, plant modifications or other enhancements.Manage large, complex projects and initiatives, deal with ambiguity and be responsible for embracing Jack Link’s commitment to customers, customer service and sales.Support manufacturing and operations by providing strategic direction and tactical support.  Troubleshoot day-to-day issues, assigning team members as necessary to provide comprehensive solutions.Collaborate with the plant network on development and implementation of strategy for application of advanced automation and continuous improvement of automated systems in alignment with business value and network needs and priorities.Ensure that process automation activities are handled in accordance with current regulations governing safety, environmental protection, energy conservation, quality and other regulatory requirements.Manage installation of complex and large-scale automation projects including the development of SOWs, testing and acceptance criteria, and project management of construction.Travel is approximately 35% and as needed to lead and support engineering vision at plants and distribution centers.Perform additional duties as assigned.WORK ENVIRONMENTThe work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The work environment is a plant / office setting with varying degrees of temperature and noise levels. Exposure to manufacturing equipment movement and wet / slippery floors. Travel may be required.PHYSICAL DEMANDSThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a Team Member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job the Team Member is regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, handle, or feel and talk or hear. The Team Member is occasionally required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms.  May occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision. 
