Capital Project Engineer
Location: Mason City, IA
Schedule: On-site | Monday through Friday
Looking to lead capital improvements inside a fast-moving food plant? This role puts you right in the middle of it all, driving project execution, working closely with operations, and helping shape the future layout, automation, and infrastructure of a food facility.
This isn’t a behind-the-desk engineering role. You’ll be out on the floor, solving problems, coordinating construction, and managing contractors while also working with leadership to plan long-term capital investment strategies that stick.
Responsibilities
- Lead facility and equipment upgrades, including packaging lines, automation, refrigeration and warehousing
- Handle full-cycle project execution, including design, budgeting, procurement, and implementation
- Manage construction vendors, timelines, and all contractor activity across active project sites
- Work cross-functionally with operations, maintenance, and purchasing to align project priorities
- Own capital budgets keep a tight handle on cost control and documentation
- Create CAD drawings and engineering documentation for new installs and layout changes
- Help design and implement systems for mixing, pumping, conveying, and filling across RTE lines
- Identify infrastructure needs that support long-term plant efficiency and food safety
- Train internal teams on new equipment and support preventive maintenance schedules
Requirements
- BS in Mechanical Engineering or similar technical Engineering discipline is required or an equivalent of 10+ years of capital project management experience
- 7+ years of experience running capital projects in a food, chemical, packaging, consumer goods or closely related industry
- Proficiency in CAD and hands-on project design and planning
- Experience coordinating large construction and equipment installs in food-grade environments
- Strong track record of managing contractors and staying on budget
- Clear communicator who can operate across departments and see the big picture
- Working knowledge of FDA regulations and plant safety standards
Perks:
- Salary range: $120K–$140K plus bonus
- Relocation available for the right candidate
- Private equity-backed company with a multi-year investment plan in facility growth and automation
- Be part of a stable, established operation that’s upgrading systems without the chaos
- Direct access to decision-makers and a clear lane to get projects done
