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# Principal Engineer, Digital Manufacturing Innovation

- **Company:** McCain Foods
- **Location:** Oakbrook Terrace, IL, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $111,700.0 - $149,000.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Data Analysis, Data Architecture, Data Governance, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Python (Programming Language), Machine Learning, Power BI, SQL Databases, Tableau (Software), Digital Twin, Cloud Platform System, Information Technology, Data Analytics, Industrial Software
- **Published:** August 11, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.agcareers.com/mccain-foods/principal-engineer-digital-manufacturing-innovation-job-1037880.cfm

## About the Role

* Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Data Science, Computer Science, or a related field
 * 15+ years of experience in manufacturing analytics, digital transformation, or industrial automation
 * 5+ years of experience in a senior leadership role
 * Deep expertise in industrial systems such as MES, SCADA, and PLCs, as well as cloud-based data platforms
 * Strong background in AI/ML, predictive analytics, and data architecture
 * Proficiency with tools such as Python, SQL, Power BI, and Tableau
 * Demonstrated success leading enterprise-scale transformation initiatives
 * Strong stakeholder management and executive communication skills
 * Proven ability to quantify and deliver measurable business value
 * Certifications such as Lean Six Sigma, PMP, or related disciplines are considered an asset

## Description

The Principal Engineer, Manufacturing Insights, is a high-impact leadership role responsible for driving McCain's global digital manufacturing transformation. This role leads the strategy, architecture, and execution of advanced analytics and AI-driven solutions to enable intelligent, connected manufacturing across a global network of production facilities. Acting as both a technical authority and strategic advisor, this position shapes how data and technology improve operational efficiency, quality, and productivity.

What you'll be doing.

 * Define and execute a global manufacturing analytics and digital transformation roadmap
 * Lead large-scale initiatives leveraging AI, IoT, and cloud-based platforms
 * Architect scalable analytics solutions integrating MES, SCADA, PLCs, and cloud systems
 * Develop AI/ML models for predictive maintenance, anomaly detection, and process optimization
 * Drive improvements in OEE, production efficiency, and product quality outcomes
 * Establish and enforce data governance and standardization frameworks
 * Partner with cross-functional teams across manufacturing, supply chain, and IT
 * Present data-driven insights and ROI-based recommendations to senior leadership
 * Identify and scale Industry 4.0 technologies, including digital twins, smart sensors, and automation
 * Lead organizational change initiatives and build digital capabilities across the business, You will join McCain's Manufacturing Digital team, working closely with global manufacturing operations, supply chain, and technology partners. This team is focused on building next-generation digital capabilities that enable intelligent, data-driven manufacturing and support McCain's broader digital transformation strategy.


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