The Innovation Engineer will lead and support the development of new technological solutions by integrating engineering principles, food science, and consumer insights. This role plays a critical part in bringing new ideas from concept to commercialization, delivering innovative products, improving manufacturing processes, and validating reliable technologies in equipment.

Responsible for effectively managing projects with significant impact to the business within budget, schedule, and scope. Execution will follow all established processes and procedures.
Generally supports the business by performing engineering studies and analysis to guide key business decisions. Proactively leveraged to determine root cause technical challenges. Works directly with all business areas and new sites as needed to develop and share best practices
Proactively engages key vendors to develop new technologies, to unlock future innovation capabilities. Ideates patentable concepts that will drive competitive advantage for the business. Stays current on the latest cutting-edge manufacturing, logistics, material handling, and processing technologies and works to integrate them into Wells.
Plays a key role in steering, developing, and leading innovation concepts through concise collaboration with R&D, Innovation, MFG, ENG, MKTG and Sales groups. Guides the business toward decisions regarding innovation product concepts and ENG solutions.
Evaluates manufacturing processes by designing and conducting research programs; applying knowledge of product design, fabrication, assembly, tooling, and materials; conferring with equipment vendors; soliciting observations from operators.
Develops manufacturing processes by studying product requirements; researching, designing, modifying, and testing manufacturing methods and equipment; conferring with equipment vendors.
Engineering resource for supporting pilot plant to ensure development of new products best resembles production capabilities (current or future).

In addition to the responsibilities listed above, other duties may be assigned by your supervisor, as dictated by business necessity.

Bachelor's of Science in Engineering preferred – 8+ years of experience considered in lieu of a degree.
8+ years of experience in a Wells (or similar company) technical role with expertise across the engineering and large-scale manufacturing.
Strong mechanical and electrical knowledge and aptitude Strong knowledge of proactive maintenance programs and tools.
Strong knowledge of PdM (vibration, oil analysis, IR, etc.) as well as data systems associated with asset management.
Advanced knowledge of applicable industry codes and standards.
Knowledge of plant operations.
Advanced computer skills as well as strong written and verbal communication skills.
Influencing without direct authority, technical problem solving, and decision-making skills.
Cause Mapping and other Root Cause Analysis tools as well as Statistical Analysis.
Ability to develop and manage good working relationships with internal and external customers and peers.
Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to all levels of the organization.
Self-directed, working within established guidelines and processes.
Work in both individual and team setting with attention to detail, customer service orientation, and professionalism.
Reports to: Director Engineering Innovation
Direct reports: N/A
Indirect reports: N/A

Wells Enterprises is an EEO/AA employer M/F/Vet/Dis

Wells Enterprises, Inc. is the largest privately held ice cream manufacturer in the United States. Founded in 1913 by Fred H. Wells and run by the Wells family for generations, the company is an independent operating company of the Ferrero Group, one of the global leaders in sweet, packaged foods.

Wells produces more than 200 million gallons of ice cream per year and distributes products in all 50 states. Wells manufactures its signature brand Blue Bunny®, lower-calorie Halo Top®, the iconic Bomb Pop®, and Blue Ribbon Classics®.

Wells employs nearly 4,000 ice cream aficionados across the country. The company is headquartered in Le Mars, Iowa, where Wells has made Le Mars the “Ice Cream Capital of the World” as the largest manufacturer of ice cream in one location. Wells operates two manufacturing plants in Le Mars, Iowa, a manufacturing plant in Dunkirk, New York, and a manufacturing facility in Henderson, Nevada. Learn more at www.wellsenterprisesinc.com.

What We Offer

At Wells, we’re proud to support our employees with comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include paid time off (PTO). Eligible employees may also receive an annual incentive bonus based on Company performance. Learn more about our benefits here.