Director of Operations Engineering - Aseptic Beverage Manufacturing at UMYRA

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Operations Engineering to lead engineering operations at our state-of-the-art aseptic beverage manufacturing facility in Morgantown, WV. This senior leadership role is responsible for ensuring seamless plant operations, driving process excellence, managing engineering projects, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate will be a strategic leader with deep technical expertise, strong project management skills, and a passion for optimizing systems, reducing downtime, and delivering cost-effective solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, development, and execution of engineering processes and systems to improve operational efficiency and support business goals.
• Manage resource allocation, project timelines, and departmental budgets, including Capital Expenditures, Training, and Consulting.
• Drive continuous improvement through performance metrics and data analysis to enhance productivity and reduce costs.
• Oversee the CMMS (Upkeep) system to manage maintenance requests, breakdowns, and contractor activities with full transparency and documentation.
• Manage engineering drawing controls, design standards, and equipment specifications.
• Collaborate with Maintenance, EH&S, Production, Controls, and Reliability Engineering teams to ensure cohesive plant operations and minimize downtime.
• Oversee all capital projects and facility upgrades, including scope, design, installation, and commissioning.
• Coordinate major maintenance shutdowns and production downtime scheduling for maximum efficiency.
• Support safety programs and ensure compliance with EH&S requirements, including LOTO and startup/shutdown procedures.
• Develop and implement engineering policies, practices, and security standards to maintain safe, efficient, and consistent operations.
• Stay current with industry trends and technologies to identify and implement process enhancements.
• Supervise and develop the Engineering team through recruitment, training, and performance management.
• Ensure compliance with SQF, GMP, FDA, and Food Safety Standards.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial, Chemical, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering required
• MBA preferred

Experience

• 10 or more years of related engineering experience in manufacturing required
• 5 or more years of experience managing capital projects, budgets, and timelines
• Proven leadership in engineering operations and process improvement initiatives
• Strong knowledge of aseptic or low-acid beverage manufacturing preferred
• Experience with FDA, PMO, and GMP design requirements is a plus

Skills and Competencies

• Strong understanding of engineering principles and manufacturing processes
• Proficient in Microsoft Project, Microsoft Office Suite, AutoCAD, ERP/CRM, and MES systems
• Experience with CMMS platforms such as Upkeep
• Ability to read and create P&IDs and engineering drawings
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and organizational abilities
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and shifting priorities
• Focused on process mapping, loss elimination, and continuous improvement

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for prolonged periods and work at a computer
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds occasionally
• Must be able to work around equipment containing electromagnetic components

Why Join Us

This is a key leadership opportunity to shape the future of a growing aseptic beverage operation. You will lead innovative projects, work with cross-functional teams, and make a measurable impact on productivity, quality, and safety.