Mizkan Americas, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of condiments, including vinegars, mustards, cooking wines, Asian sauces and dressings, and a variety of other condiments.  We offer a broad array of branded and private label products and we service customers in the Retail, Foodservice, and Food Ingredients trade classes from multiple production facilities located throughout the United States.  Mizkan Americas, Inc. is privately held by the Mizkan Group Corporation, which is one of the most well respected food companies in Japan and the largest producer of vinegar in the world.

We are seeking a Project Engineer to provide engineering support within Mizkan Americas’ system of 13 plants involved in vinegar fermentation, batching/blending operations, filtration processes, bottling operations, mustard milling, and vinegar concentration.  This position will report to the Director of Corporate Engineering and has no direct reports.  The ideal candidate will have strong project management skills and will be self-motivated, detail oriented, deadline driven, and results oriented.  Ability to communicate and work effectively with people is essential. Successful candidate should be versatile, flexible and willing to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm. Travel requirements for this job are estimated at 50% and can be 75% depending upon the project load being carried.

Major responsibilities are, as follows:

• Performs and organizes complete engineering design, costing, installation, and start-up of approved projects, including responsibility for costs, quality, and operation within assigned time limits.
• Performs required engineering and direct field work of major alterations and/or repairs to a variety of plant equipment.
• Conducts engineering studies as assigned on new/existing manufacturing processes and equipment to optimize production efficiency, minimize waste/scrap, and ensure that environmental quality and safety standards are met.
• Ensures adherence to federal, state and local permits.
• Engages outside vendors, as directed, to perform engineering, construction, or repairs, and oversees their work for adherence to agreements.
• Supervises and directs other project teams, as appropriate, and controls outside contractors relative to plant policies and assigned scope of work.
• Assists with development of sustainability and cost reduction initiatives.
• Assists with the transition of new products from development through production.
• Works directly with Maintenance and Operations personnel in developing project scopes, task development, major equipment rebuilds, or modifications to meet changing operational requirements.
• Tracks capital expenditures for adherence to approved project-spending limits.
• Interfaces with OHSA, EPA, AIB, BRC and other regulatory and 3^rd party agencies.
• Participates in developing, implementing, and maintaining annual engineering and capital budgets.
• Investigates, thoroughly understands, and applies developments in mechanical and manufacturing engineering to improve manufacturing and process designs.

Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's degree (B.S.) required in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Chemical Engineering  with relevant experience.  A minimum of five years of experience in a manufacturing environment requiring knowledge of various cooling systems, pumping and piping systems, industrial electrical distribution, mechanical systems and maintenance, packaging equipment, liquids handling, automated manufacturing process controls and equipment are essential.  Experience in food processing packaging and systems are preferred.  Ability to travel 50 - 75% is required.

Other qualifications are, as follows:

• Organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills are essential.
• Demonstrated troubleshooting experience for symptom identification and problem resolution.
• Demonstrated responsibility for managing complex projects and for implementing and completing projects with adherence to approved spending limits of $500,000 or higher.
• Working knowledge of FDA regulations, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP's), sanitation processes/procedures, and HACCP.
• Demonstrated knowledge of efficient and safe manufacturing operations to include product and associate safety, OHSA standards, product quality (success rates), cost control (minimizing downtime and waste, optimizing yield), and cost-effective creative solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to develop project teams and to direct, coach, and train team members. Monitors and schedules work, handles multiple projects, and meets deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. 
• Creative, flexible, and innovative team player.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and physically perform hands-on engineering related activities.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suites, including Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Internet software, MS Project, and AutoCAD LT. 

Our regular full-time employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package through Blue Cross Blue Shield that includes:  medical, dental, vision, life, travel accident insurance, disability, holidays, vacation, personal days, sick days, 401(k), and more!  No relocation assistance will be provided.  EOE/M/F.

Please apply online, fax, or mail your cover letter, resume, and salary history/requirements.  Be sure to list Project Engineer in the subject line.

Corporate Recruiter - PE

Mizkan Americas, Inc.

1661 Feehanville Dr., Suite 300

Mount Prospect, IL 60056

Fax:  847-590-0475

Apply online  (Recommended)