Technology & Engineering Lead

FrieslandCampina Ingredients is seeking a Technology & Engineering Lead to provide technical and engineering leadership at our manufacturing site in Darlington, Wisconsin. In this role, you will oversee all engineering activities, drive process optimization, and lead capital projects to ensure safe, reliable, and high‑quality operations. You will partner closely with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, and Corporate Engineering to deliver continuous improvement, support innovation, and enhance overall plant performance.

What we ask

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• 7+ years of experience in dairy processing or complex food manufacturing
• Strong expertise in whey and cheese processing technologies
• Proven experience leading capital projects from concept through execution
• Solid background in Continuous Improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma)
• Deep understanding of GMPs, food safety, and regulatory requirements (OSHA, EPA, USDA)
• Proven people leadership skills with the ability to coach, develop, and inspire teams
• A proactive, collaborative mindset and strong problem‑solving skills
• Experience supporting a 24/7 manufacturing environment is preferred

What we offer

• An opportunity to work for a global leader in nutrition and ingredients with a strong purpose and values
• A key leadership role within a fast‑paced, technology‑driven manufacturing environment
• Opportunity to lead high‑impact capital projects and influence long‑term technical strategy
• A strong culture of safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement
• Professional growth through cross‑functional collaboration and exposure to global standards
• Competitive compensation and benefits package
• A workplace that values respect, ownership, teamwork, and excellence

As Technology & Engineering Lead, you will be responsible for defining how technology, automation, and engineering design are used to improve production efficiency and competitiveness. You will ensure all whey and cheese processes are optimized, stable, and capable through strong engineering fundamentals and data‑driven decision‑making.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the full lifecycle of capital projects, from concept to implementation
• Providing technical support and troubleshooting expertise to Operations
• Driving continuous improvement, reliability initiatives, and OEE enhancement
• Maintaining engineering documentation and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards
• Promoting a strong safety culture and ensuring adherence to GMP and corporate policies
• Leading, developing, and performance‑managing the site engineering team
• Collaborating cross‑functionally to resolve recurring issues and implement sustainable solutions

This position operates in both office and manufacturing environments and requires strict adherence to safety, environmental, and quality standards. Occasional domestic or international travel may be required.

We offer a very competitive compensation package including health benefits and 401k.  FrieslandCampina also allows you to continue to grow, because that development benefits both our products and your career.

Team Details

You will be part of a cross-functional engineering and operations team within FrieslandCampina Ingredients North America. The role works closely with Operations, Maintenance, EHS, Quality, Procurement, Finance, Sales, and site leadership to support reliable manufacturing and continuous improvement. This position is on-site and plays an important role in maintaining strong collaboration between technical and operational teams.

The salary for this position is anticipated to range between $85,000 to $105,000 annually.  Pay is based on qualifications necessary for the position, including years of work experience, education/training, and other considerations permissible by law.  

We are an equal opportunity employer. FrieslandCampina Ingredients North America, Inc. expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other protected classification under the law.