Project Engineer

Title : Project Engineer

Location: Manteno, IL

Hire Type: CONTRACT-TO-HIRE

Job Summary:

Seeking an experienced Project Engineer to lead and coordinate technical projects from concept through implementation. This role is responsible for planning project scope, managing timelines and budgets, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and collaborating cross-functionally with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in engineering project execution, process improvement, and equipment implementation within a regulated production environment.

Job Duties:

• Establish project goals by reviewing proposals, technical requirements, and operational needs in collaboration with leadership.
• Define project scope, phases, and deliverables, ensuring appropriate resource allocation and contractor coordination.
• Monitor project budgets by comparing actual costs to estimates and recommending adjustments as needed.
• Partner with design and engineering teams to revise plans when technical or operational challenges arise.
• Evaluate equipment, systems, and production processes to identify opportunities to improve efficiency, product quality, and cost effectiveness.
• Develop and maintain project timelines, ensuring milestones are met through proactive coordination and issue resolution.
• Prepare and present progress updates, cost analyses, and status reports to leadership.
• Work closely with operations and maintenance teams to troubleshoot issues and support successful implementation of engineering solutions.
• Conduct technical assessments and develop cost estimates for capital and process improvement initiatives.
• Review project specifications, recommend modifications, and manage change control processes as needed.
• Approve project-related expenditures and support contractor oversight to ensure scope, quality, and budget expectations are met.
• Support safe and compliant operations by adhering to applicable regulatory, GMP, food safety, and workplace safety standards.
• Provide guidance and training to staff on equipment operation, maintenance procedures, and best practices.
• Contribute to team initiatives and support additional engineering or operational projects as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical discipline required.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in engineering, project management, systems design, or similar technical environment.
• At least 3 years of experience leading cross-functional or multidisciplinary project teams.
• Strong knowledge of engineering principles, project planning methodologies, and continuous improvement practices.
• Experience working in regulated environments such as food production, manufacturing, or similar industries preferred.
• Effective communication skills and ability to collaborate across departments.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.