Process Optimization Specialist

The Opportunity:

Reporting to the Production Manager, you will lead improvements to manufacturing equipment and processes by evaluating products, workflows, and production methods to elevate efficiency and performance.

Snapshot of a Day-in-the-Life:

• Drive manufacturing process improvements to increase capacity, efficiency, reliability, and cost performance.
• Support product upgrades and new product development, including process layouts, documentation, and plant-level trial coordination.
• Partner closely with Operations and R&D to validate processes, ensure quality expectations are met, and maintain accurate BOMs.
• Contribute to capital projects through cost-benefit analysis, equipment selection, vendor coordination, FAT, and commissioning.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean/Six Sigma tools to reduce waste and streamline operations.
• Conduct and review safety risk assessments, PSHSRs, and equipment design evaluations while overseeing contractors and safety tasks.
• Champion ergonomic and process design improvements that enhance equipment performance and reduce MTTR.
• Support preventive and predictive maintenance programs, breakdown analysis, and recurrence prevention.
• Develop and maintain standardized process documentation, visual management tools, and production performance standards.
• Promote and uphold food safety, quality, and health & safety requirements across all improvement initiatives

What You’ll Bring:

• College or university education in Engineering or an Engineering Technologist Diploma (mechanical, industrial, or electrical).
• 3–5 years of engineering experience, preferably within a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.
• Professional engineering designation is an asset.
• Excellent computer skills, proficient in MS Office and AutoCAD, with solid to advanced spreadsheet capabilities, complemented by strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated and passionate individual with a high sense of urgency who thrives on managing diverse tasks and consistently delivering results across multiple priorities.
• Experience with Lean manufacturing principles.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively within team dynamics.

What We Offer at Maple Leaf Foods:

• Being part of a high-performance, people-focused company that has an inspiring and unique vision to become the most sustainable protein company on earth, and a deep commitment to sustainable protein across North America.
• An inclusive company culture and a work environment that keeps our people safe, rewards excellence, and empowers everyone to learn and contribute their best.
• Competitive Health and Wellness benefits that offer flexibility to meet your individual or family needs, including programs focused on improving mental health and wellbeing. These benefits start on your first day of employment.
• Defined Contribution Pension Plan with company matching that starts on your first day of employment.
• Learning and development opportunities, including workshops, ‘speaker series’ events, and resources that allow you to develop your skills and progress your career.
• Comprehensive tuition reimbursement program that supports continuous learning and development of our team members through investment in eligible degrees, diplomas, professional certification, or trades programs.
• Supporting our deep commitment to community impact, we offer up to two paid days annually to volunteer at a cause of your choice.