Together We Innovate. Together We Change.
Are you ready to take charge of engineering solutions that shape the future of manufacturing? At U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company (USSTC), we’re looking for a Principal Engineer I / Operations Support to drive innovation, optimize systems, and lead large-scale projects in a fast-paced environment. This is your opportunity to make a measurable impact—on our processes, our products, and our business.
USSTC is committed to responsibly manufacturing and marketing smokeless brands for adult consumers, while maintaining a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement. If you thrive on solving complex challenges and leading teams toward breakthrough results, this role is for you.
Wha you will be doing:
As a technical leader for United States Smokeless Tobacco Company Primary Process in Richmond, VA, you will:
- Lead major capital projects—from concept to execution—ensuring alignment with business objectives.
- Drive process optimization for mixing and drying systems, applying advanced problem-solving techniques to improve efficiency and reliability.
- Manage project and construction schedules, analyzing interdependence and resolving conflicts.
- Champion engineering best practices, independently conceiving and delivering projects that push boundaries.
- Oversee equipment integration and factory expansions, ensuring seamless implementation.
- Conduct critical testing and audits, including FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing), IQ/OQ/PQ (Installation, Operational, and Process Qualification).
- Collaborate across functions, providing technical recommendations and presenting solutions to site and executive leadership.
- Direct vendors, OEMs, and contractors, ensuring quality and compliance.
- Lead troubleshooting efforts, partnering with production and maintenance teams to resolve issues quickly.
What we want you to have:
- Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or mechanical engineering required
- 7+ years of hands-on plant engineering experience as well as the execution of capital projects
- Demonstrated ability to apply process knowledge and technology to analyze and solve equipment and processing problems
- Working knowledge of mixing and drying processes, processing and piping systems, and instrumentation
- General knowledge of PLC controlled processes
- Strong communication, interpersonal and leadership skills with the ability to effectively lead technical projects, handle conflicts, and offer creative solutions to achieve goals
- Project management experience with knowledge of fiduciary and budgeting policies/practices
The starting salary is based on but not limited to experience, knowledge, and qualifications in determining compensation decisions. The Salary Range for this position is: $101,800.00 - $147,700.00.
Why You’ll Love Building Your Career at Altria
At Altria, we believe a great career starts with feeling supported — both at work and in life. Here’s what you’ll find here:
- Work where life works for you — with flexible and remote options that fit your world, not the other way around.
- Own your time — start with 15 days of paid time off, 13 paid holidays, 2 floating holiday days, and a 37.5-hour workweek so you can recharge and live fully
- A place where you belong — where your ideas are welcomed, your growth is encouraged, and your impact is real
- Get recognized for your work – annual merit increases and performance bonus
- A future you can count on — 401(k) matching from day one; plus Deferred Profit Sharing, an annual company contribution in an amount equal to 13%-17% of your base salary
- Help with your goals — get help with student loan repayment assistance, attend a conference, or gain a new certification with professional development stipends
- Support for what matters most — comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family
- Celebrating your milestones — paid parental and bonding leave for life’s biggest moments.
- Wellness that goes beyond work — programs that care for your whole well-being at whatever stage you are in your life
- A culture that gives back — paid volunteer days and a shared commitment to making a difference
At Altria, we offer more than benefits — we offer a career that fits your life, rewards your ambition, and celebrates your impact.
This position is not eligible for sponsorship.