Director of Engineering

Joining King’s Hawaiian makes you part of our `ohana (family). We are a family-owned business for over seventy years, respecting our roots while thinking about our future as we continue to grow and care for our customers and the communities we serve. Our `ohana members build an environment of inclusivity as they freely collaborate, pursue learning through curiosity, and explore innovation as critical thinkers. Beyond that, we are also passionate about supporting the long-term health and well-being of our employees and their families. If you’re excited to rise with our team, come and join our `ohana!

Are you a seasoned engineering leader passionate about transforming manufacturing operations? King's Hawaiian is searching for a Director of Engineering to drive our strategic capital projects and champion innovation in process, packaging, and system technology. You'll lead a dedicated team of Project Engineers, playing a critical role in enhancing our manufacturing facilities and ensuring they align with King's Hawaiian's ambitious strategic goals. Your expertise will directly support our Supply Chain, Plant Operations, and Sales departments, solidifying our position as a leader in performance, efficiency, and excellence.

What You'll Do:

• Lead and develop a high-performing team of Project Engineers, fostering their growth and ensuring successful project execution from concept to completion.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional departments and key stakeholders to identify opportunities and implement continuous improvements that drive operational efficiency and growth.
• Partner with plant operations to develop and manage the comprehensive Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) plan, ensuring alignment with our strategic objectives, efficiency targets, and operational continuity.
• Direct the entire Capital Expenditure Request (CER) process, overseeing diverse projects ranging from essential equipment replacements to complex multi-tasking plant expansions, new line installations, and greenfield developments.
• Ensure flawless project delivery—on time and within budget—while rigorously adhering to safety, sanitation, regulatory compliance, energy efficiency, environmental standards, and all applicable industry benchmarks.
• Manage the financial control of all CAPEX projects, including annual budget planning, forecasting, and long-range capital planning.
• Oversee and manage relationships with external contractors, vendors, and engineering firms, ensuring a safe, healthy work environment during all installations and upholding King's Hawaiian's core values.
• Establish and maintain King’s Hawaiian Engineering policies, procedures, and standards, promoting best practices across the organization.
• Continuously evaluate new equipment and production techniques, ensuring King’s Hawaiian remains at the forefront of bakery and manufacturing technologies.
• Travel up to 35% to support various facility needs.

What You'll Bring:

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (e.g., Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Industrial) or a closely related technical degree.
• 10+ years of progressive experience leading significant capital projects within a high-speed manufacturing environment, preferably within the food or beverage industry (bakery manufacturing experience is plus).
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including successfully managing, mentoring, and developing engineering teams.
• Proven ability to effectively manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, expertly balancing financial constraints, demanding schedules, and intricate implementation details.
• Strong technical aptitude with a deep understanding and practical application of engineering principles, coupled with exceptional troubleshooting skills.
• Proficiency in common software packages including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Microsoft Project, and AutoCAD.

Preferred Qualifications:

• An advanced degree in Engineering or an MBA.
• A solid understanding of statistics, data analysis techniques, simulation, and other industrial engineering principles.
• Familiarity with USDA/FDA sanitary design principles, BRC/AIB standards, OSHA, GMP's, and related regulations.

King's Hawaiian is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for our ohana.