JOB PURPOSE
The Principal Project Engineer leads the Projects Team within the Technology Engineering department, focusing on the development and implementation of R&D projects. This role is responsible for managing complex projects, including resource allocation, budgeting, contractor management, and ensuring alignment with the strategic goals set by the Manager of Technology Engineering. The Principal Project Engineer collaborates closely with other teams within the organization to support technology transfer activities and the implementation of technology sales. With a high level of independence, the Principal Project Engineer oversees a team of Project Engineers, providing coordination, training, and development to enhance team capabilities. This position requires a strong willingness to learn and understand the complexities of the smelting process, excellent communication and organizational skills, and the ability to manage project complexities effectively.
3. KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES
Project Leadership and Management
Project Planning and Execution:
Lead the development and implementation of R&D projects, focusing on agile methodologies for small-scale initiatives directly linked to R&D activities.
Define project scopes, objectives, deliverables, and success criteria in alignment with organizational goals.
Develop detailed project plans, including schedules, budgets, resource allocation, and risk assessments.
Resource Management:
Manage project resources effectively, including personnel, equipment, and materials.
Coordinate with contractors and suppliers to ensure timely delivery of project components.
Budget Management:
Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring financial resources are utilized efficiently.
Monitor expenditures, track project costs, and provide regular financial reports.
Quality Assurance:
Team Leadership and Development
Team Coordination:
Lead and manage a team of Project Engineers with varying backgrounds and levels of seniority.
Assign tasks, set performance expectations, and monitor team progress.
Training and Mentorship:
Provide training, guidance, and mentorship to Project Engineers to enhance their professional development.
Develop individual development plans and facilitate skill enhancement.
Performance Management:
Conduct regular performance evaluations, provide constructive feedback, and recognize achievements.
Address performance issues promptly and implement improvement plans as needed.
Technical Expertise and Process Understanding
Smelting Process Knowledge:
Develop a deep understanding of the smelting process and its engineering aspects.
Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in smelting and project management.
Technical Problem-Solving:
Stakeholder Engagement and Communication
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Work closely with the Design Team, Modelling Team, Automation Team, and other departments to ensure project alignment.
Support technology transfer activities by providing project management expertise during technology sales implementations.
Communication:
Communicate project status, risks, and issues effectively to stakeholders, including senior management.
Prepare and deliver presentations, reports, and documentation as required.
Risk Management and Compliance
Risk Assessment:
Compliance:
Ensure all projects comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and environmental policies.
Stay informed about regulatory changes and incorporate compliance requirements into project plans.
Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE):
Promote and adhere to HSE policies and practices.
Ensure that all projects consider safety and environmental impact.
Lead by example in fostering a culture of safety and environmental responsibility.
Continuous Improvement and Innovation
Process Optimization:
Knowledge Sharing:
Stakeholder Management and Client Relations
Client Engagement:
Relationship Building:
Contract Management
Contract Oversight:
Oversee contracts with contractors, suppliers, and service providers.
Ensure contractual obligations are met and manage any changes or disputes.
Negotiation:
4. AUTHORITY / DECISION MAKING
Project Leadership:
Authorized to oversee and manage all aspects of large-scale projects, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and strategic objectives.
Make key project decisions regarding scope, timeline, and resource allocation.
Budget Oversight:
Approve project budgets, including CAPEX/OPEX expenditures.
Monitor and control project finances, ensuring efficient use of resources.
Risk Management:
Stakeholder Engagement:
Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, suppliers, and internal teams.
Make decisions to resolve conflicts and ensure project success through effective communication and negotiation.
Quality Assurance:
Approve project deliverables, ensuring they meet quality and compliance standards.
Oversee the implementation of quality control measures throughout the project lifecycle.
5. QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
Education:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Civil, or related field).
Professional Engineering (PE) license or equivalent certification is preferred.
Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent is advantageous.
Experience:
Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in project engineering and management, preferably within the aluminum smelting industry or heavy industrial environments.
Proven track record of managing complex projects, including resource allocation, budgeting, and contractor management.
Experience in leading and developing engineering teams.
Familiarity with contract management and negotiation with contractors and suppliers.
Technical Skills:
Project Management Expertise:
Proficiency in project management methodologies, tools, and software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera).
Strong understanding of project lifecycle management, agile methodologies, and risk management.
Engineering Knowledge:
Solid understanding of engineering principles related to the smelting process.
Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and engineering documentation.
Financial Acumen:
Competence in budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting.
Ability to conduct financial analysis and evaluate project feasibility.
Contract Management Knowledge:
Soft Skills:
Leadership and Mentoring:
Communication Skills:
Organizational Skills:
Problem-Solving:
Negotiation Skills:
Personal Attributes:
Willingness to Learn:
High motivation to continuously learn and understand new aspects of the smelting process and project management advancements.
Encouraged to pursue ongoing professional development, including certifications and training in project management and engineering.
Stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices.
Independence and Initiative:
Ethical Standards:
Adaptability: