Department Manager - Food & Beverage Facilities

Burns & McDonnell is a renowned, 100% employee-owned engineering, architecture, construction, environmental and consulting solutions firm. Established with a strong foundation in delivering high-quality projects, Burns & McDonnell prides itself on fostering innovation, sustainability, and client-focused strategies. Operating nationwide, the company offers a collaborative and inclusive work environment that encourages professional development and growth. With expertise across various sectors, including energy, transportation, water, and manufacturing, Burns & McDonnell is committed to advancing communities and industries through trusted partnerships and cutting-edge solutions.

The Food & Beverage Facility Business Line Manager position at Burns & McDonnell focuses on leading and expanding the engineering, design, procurement, and construction capabilities specifically within the Food & Beverage Facilities Engineering practice across the Great Lakes Region. This is a full-time, experienced hire role based primarily in Chicago, IL, with some presence in Madison, WI, involving travel of approximately 25%. The expected compensation range for this position is $170,000 to $350,000 yearly, reflecting the critical nature and seniority of the role. The total compensation includes a base salary and eligibility for a discretionary year-end incentive bonus. As a strategic leadership role, the Business Line Manager is responsible for formulating and executing the near- and long-term strategy for a full-service Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) business line. The position demands overseeing portfolio development, providing technical and professional staff leadership, engaging with clients, and driving business development.

Key responsibilities involve leading project execution throughout the entire project lifecycle—starting from planning and design to procurement and construction—while ensuring innovation, quality, sustainable growth, and profitability. This role requires a visionary leader capable of guiding a multidisciplinary team, fostering a culture of excellence and safety, and securing new business aligned with broader regional and national objectives. The Business Line Manager also collaborates closely with internal and external stakeholders, builds lasting relationships with clients, and spearheads marketing efforts to enhance the company's footprint in the Food & Beverage sector.

This position is ideal for a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of the A/E/C (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) or manufacturing industries, particularly with experience in Food & Beverage facilities. The candidate should possess strong strategic planning skills, business acumen, financial oversight capabilities, and exceptional communication skills. Leadership and talent development are integral to the role, involving recruitment, mentoring, and career advancement support for project managers and technical staff. Burns & McDonnell offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, dental insurance, disability coverage, paid time off, wellness programs, an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), and a 401(k) retirement program. This role provides a unique opportunity to contribute to a dynamic, employee-owned company with a strong commitment to growth and innovation within the Food & Beverage industry.