Utilities Engineer

Job DescriptionJob Description

Role Impact:

The Utilities Engineer will be critical in proactively managing utility performance and leading infrastructure improvements that directly impact product quality, operational uptime, energy efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

In this role, the Utilities Engineer will be a key technical resource and a foundational role in maintaining the utility equipment to ensure the building environment and aseptic beverage manufacturing equipment are able to operate and maintain reliability.

Role Responsibilities:

• Own and optimize all plant utility systems, including boilers, chillers, air compressors, HVAC, reverse osmosis (RO) water systems, waste treatment, and nitrogen system.
• Monitor, operate, and adjust controls on boilers and chillers to maintain required temperatures and pressures for steam and chilled water supply.
• Create and/or implement necessary work instructions and ensure all maintenance planning is in the CMMS.
• Oversee and support maintenance in the repairs, breakdowns, and preventative maintenance tasks to the utility systems and equipment.
• Ensure system drawings are accurate and maintained.
• Identify and tag equipment on systems to ensure all equipment is captured in the CMMS.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot equipment malfunctions, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
• Communicate and plan with controls/electrical team on all electrical or controls support needed.
• Conduct routine inspections and functional testing of utility safety devices and system components.
• Maintain accurate operational logs and detailed records of maintenance and repairs in compliance with cGMP and regulatory requirements.
• Respond promptly to alarms and emergency utility situations to minimize downtime.
• Ensure all utility systems support and maintain the aseptic environment required for sterile beverage production.
• Maintain and update preventive maintenance procedures and inspection schedules in CMMS.
• Prepare parts requisitions and associated documentation for utility equipment repairs or upgrades.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, food safety standards, and operating procedures.
• Understand and follow Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) and applicable food safety certifications (e.g., FDA, SQF).
• Demonstrate working knowledge of all utilities and the process control with associated instruments for the building and equipment processes.
• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Maintenance, Production, and Quality Assurance teams to ensure seamless daily operations.
• Support plant projects and infrastructure upgrades by contributing technical utility expertise.
• Provide training and support to junior engineers and technicians on system operation, maintenance, and safety.
• Follow all Food Safety Requirements/Standards as applicable to utilities in aseptic processing.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering .

Experience & Skills

• 3–5 years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment required.
• Experience in aseptic or beverage manufacturing but not required.
• Strong understanding of mechanical systems, including valves, motors, gearboxes, piping systems, boiler and chiller operations, compressors, fluid coolers, evaporative condensers, waste treatment, and HVAC systems.
• Hands-on experience operating and maintaining industrial boiler and chiller systems; relevant certifications or licenses required.
• High mechanical aptitude with demonstrated troubleshooting skills across mechanical, electrical, process, and automation systems.
• Extensive knowledge of engineering principles, procedures, and equipment reliability practices.
• Working knowledge of construction safety standards and site management practices.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment while adapting to shifting priorities.
• Strong organizational skills with keen attention to detail.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills; able to communicate across all levels of the organization.
• Ability to work collaboratively within cross-functional teams, including engineering, maintenance, quality, and operations.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and computer-based maintenance systems (Microsoft Project).
• Experience with CAD software and Solid Works for reviewing and updating system schematics and layouts.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times.
• Must be able to work with equipment that contains electromagnetic components.