by Heidi Riley
Charlottetown Metal Products (CMP) in Milton is a global leader in turn-key food processing systems.
CMP is a custom stainless-steel fabrication shop that designs, builds, and installs stainless steel equipment mainly for the global food processing industry. “Food safety and hygienic design is our number one concern with our equipment designs,” says Greg Fitzpatrick, Manager of Engineering.
“We work with customers in the food-processing industry in areas such as meat, poultry, vegetables, fruit, seafood, and potatoes, bakery, and ready-to-eat (RTE) products. We do designs, builds, and installations all over the world.”
Incorporated in 1958, CMP is now owned by FPS Food Process Solutions. A new expansion was recently added, and now CMP has over 100,000 sq. ft. (9,290 sq. meters) of space at its headquarters in Milton. There is also an engineering office branch in Moncton, New Brunswick.
About the staff
There are more than 150 staff in positions such as Engineers, Fabricators, and Installers. “More than half of the 35 people on the CMP engineering team are UPEI graduates, mostly in Sustainable Design Engineering,” says Greg.
“We continue to grow and continue to deliver unparalleled customer service. Our people are provided with the tools and the authority to make key decisions that continuously improve our business and make us stronger as a company.
“We continue to develop and mentor our engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure that we exceed food safety and hygienic design standards. Our promise that ‘We Engineer Food Safety’ motivates our entire team to better serve our customers as they bring food safely to families around the world.”
Hiring needs
CMP is currently looking for quality people for our company including:
- Mechanical Design Engineers
- Project Managers
- Technical Sales Representative
- two to three summer student positions
Experience or skills needed
“At CMP we strive to be one of the best places to work in Atlantic Canada. Culture is everything and we feel that since you spend a good part of your waking hours at a job, it better be a place you love to work.
“We ensure our employees respect each other and our clients and are collaborative in their approach to tasks. So, if you’re obsessed with building equipment that keeps food safe, have a strong work ethic and want to contribute to a positive work environment, then we are your company.
“If you have a desire to design and build custom food processing equipment and systems, we want to talk with you. Our End-to-End Systems start with the delivery of food product through the processing of the product to the final packaging – all with ultra clean and hygienic design practices.”
Working hours
Jobs are full-time. Hours of operation are 8 am to 4:30 pm.
Rate of pay
Compensation is based on qualifications and experience. The company offers a benefits package, RRSP matching, and a paid overtime policy.
Training and/or mentorship offered
“At CMP you can expect to work with a great team of individuals who are all striving to assist in ensuring your success on the job.
“We have a great core of supportive design engineers, project engineers, project managers, and technical sales teams! Team building and continuous improvements are hallmarks of the experience working at CMP.”
“We are willing to hire international students who have valid work permits. CMP is always looking for great people – smart, entrepreneurial, hard-working, fun-loving people…just like you!”
How to apply Career opportunities are listed at www.cmpequipment.com/careers
In addition, jobs are posted on CareerBeacon.com and Indeed.ca. “We are always looking for exceptional candidates.”
To apply, send a cover letter and resumé to cmp@cmpequipment.com and include the position applying for in the subject line.
For more information, email info@cmpequipment.com or call Engineering Manager Greg Fitzpatrick at 902-566-3044.
CMP was part of a job fair hosted by the UPEI Experiential Education department. For a complete list of employers who attended and their hiring needs, click here
CMP Equipment – hiring practices – January 25, 2022
by Heidi Riley
Charlottetown Metal Products (CMP) designs, manufactures, and installs stainless steel hygienically designed food processing equipment for the food processing industry. Some customers include Cavendish Farms, McCain’s, and Hostess, as well as many others.
In November 2021, CMP employed 150 people. “CMP sees a strong demand for its products and will require more skilled people to successfully manage this growth,” says James Gillelan, CMP Operations Manager.
James says he has seen the Welder/Fabricator workforce more than double in the four years he has been employed by CMP.
Hiring needs
- Welder/Fabricators are always in demand
- Project Managers with an Engineering degree
- Shipper/Receivers
- Machine Operator positions require personnel who have experience working in construction and with measurements, and understand how to bend and cut materials and operate equipment such as laser and waterjet machines.
- Designers to work in the offices in Charlottetown and Moncton
- Administrative positions
Part of the hiring process for Welder/Fabricators requires performing a welding test to demonstrate skill. “Those who pass the welding test and meet our expectations will be offered a job.”
There are approximately six female Welder/Fabricators who work in-house and go on the road to do installations. CMP also employs many newcomers to Canada. “We strongly encourage all newcomers to continue their English as a Second Language training and work on their English skills.”
CMP is a big promotor of continuing education for welders through Holland College and Apprenticeship programs to earn their Red Seal, which gives them increased skills and knowledge. Employees who complete their Red Seal have a better opportunity to make more money for themselves and the company.
“CMP hires as many Holland College Welder/Fabrication students as we can. Every October, CMP visits the Holland College campuses and talks with students about the company and about the trades. This better prepares them for what to expect in the workplace. CMP works closely with the Learning Managers, who recommend students based on our company’s expectations.”
The company recently hired six Holland College Welding Fabrication students after they completed the on-the-job training component of their program. They were already CMP employees even before they graduated.
Soft skills needed
When hiring, CMP looks for employees who are punctual and have good attendance, are flexible to work overtime, and willing to travel throughout North America for work purposes.
“Even if you don’t have a welding background, the most important requirement is respect for your co-workers and the company, a pleasing personality, a good work ethic, and an ability to fit in with the CMP culture is critical. Learning is a big part of our process, and we will train those who have the potential to be successful.”
Training
CMP has an in-house training program to enhance the skills of new and existing Welder/Fabricators. On-the-job-training students and new hires can practice in the welding booth until they are ready to move on to the fabrication floor to start working in a team-based environment.
“We have a solid program where incoming staff work with more advanced Welders who share their knowledge and skill set freely.”
Recruitment
CMP is creating its own pipeline of qualified Welder/Fabricators by engaging with local educational institutions, encouraging student tours, taking on-the-job training students, and operating an in-house training program.
CMP has forged relationships with local high school co-op programs and Holland College’s Georgetown and Alberton campuses to identify potential students and get them into on-the-job training with the company.
Job seekers without a welding background are welcome to come in and try welding so see if they are interested and they have potential. “For those with potential and transferrable skills, we can work out a plan to set them up on a career.”
CMP pays $16 to $17 an hour to graduates coming out of the Welding Fabrication program at Holland College. “CMP’s top rate is very competitive with other shops on the Island. We also have a comprehensive review program that allows employees to advance in the wage band as they master more skills.
“For people who want to grow and travel, CMP a great place to be. They provide an opportunity for people on PEI to stay home, make a good wage, and have a fulfilling career.
CMP is always open for tours. To book a tour or get more information about working at Charlottetown Metal Products, contact James Gillelan at 902-629-0671 or email jgillelan@cmpequipment.com