Overview
Barry Callebaut is the world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products. We are a business-to-business company serving the entire food sector, from the cocoa bean to the finest chocolate product. We are a company with a purpose, reinvesting in the communities we operate and committed to sustainability. We are headquartered in Zurich, with more than 12,000 employees in more than 40 countries. We are always looking for talented people to help us have a positive impact on our industry and beyond.
About the role
The Senior Project Engineer will oversee and execute capital projects (CapEx) within a dynamic multinational food industry environment. The role sits in a multidisciplinary Engineering department that supports all Manufacturing Operations sites for Barry Callebaut’s Cocoa Business sites in Brazil. Responsibilities span the project lifecycle from concept and feasibility studies through engineering design, procurement, and implementation. The Senior Project Engineer translates business needs into actionable project plans, ensures successful project delivery, and upholds engineering standards, policies, and procedures. The position fosters a culture of excellence and innovation to drive strategic objectives.
This position is based in Itabuna, Bahia, Brazil, with eventual support for a second factory in Ilhéus, Bahia; travel between plants may be required. It reports to the Engineering organization, requiring data exchange with Corporate teams. Key stakeholders include Plant Managers and departments such as Quality Assurance, HSE, HR, Maintenance, R&D, Supply Chain, and Production. The core mission emphasizes high technical and managerial skills to adopt high engineering standards in capital projects, manage timing and costs, and maintain a clear, robust communication plan to create synergy across departments and secure buy-in from all teams. The role will lead internal and outsourced teams on projects ranging from layout improvements to complex brownfield or greenfield lines. This is a high-visibility role with strong internal opportunities for career growth within Barry Callebaut.
Key responsibilities
Lead and oversee outsourced engineers/engineering firms and staff; perform the full range of professional engineering work assignments.
Improve existing frameworks, standards, and internal work instructions for the department and obtain validation.
Serve as project manager on construction projects; set priorities, track budgets and schedules, direct professional/technical staff, consultants, and contractors; administer contracts and approve payments.
Create and promote an equitable workplace respectful of a multicultural environment.
Prepare and process project documentation; maintain records of activities, findings, progress, and results; prepare designs, specifications, reports, and correspondence.
Establish and revise technical, QA, and QC standards; perform design reviews and obtain formal stakeholder approvals.
Obtain stakeholder input on projects; participate in steering groups and committees; represent Project Engineering in operational decisions.
Collaborate with management to plan, organize, and direct resources to complete projects within budgets and schedules; contribute to bidding documents and contracting processes.
Ensure project completion in accordance with work plans and applicable regulations, codes, and company procedures.
Collaborate with Procurement to manage procurement strategies, select and manage contractors/vendors, and ensure cost-effective procurement of services and materials.
Identify risks, develop mitigation strategies, and create contingency plans to manage uncertainties.
Lead budget estimation for the CapEx 2-year Mid Term Plan and obtain validation from the Engineering Manager.
Perform other related work as required.
About you
A bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field is required. A master’s degree (MS or MBA) is an asset.
A Master's Degree and/or Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus.
Progressive engineering experience in manufacturing or corporate environments with proven experience leading teams and impactful projects.
Full proficiency in business and technical English.
High-level knowledge of Microsoft Project; proficient in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera) and engineering software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks). ERP familiarity is an advantage.
Proven technical experience in multifunctional projects and leadership with references.
Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to present complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
Exposure to international manufacturing environments and projects is a plus.
At Barry Callebaut, we are committed to Diversity & Inclusion. United by our values, we thrive on the diversity of who we are and where we come from. We are committed to nurturing an inclusive environment where people can be themselves, grow to their full potential, and feel they belong. #oneBC - Diverse People, Sustainable Growth.
If you want to learn more about Barry Callebaut, please find further information here.
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