Administrative Project Engineer

Location: Tigard, OR

About the role

Our client is a recognized leader in steel fabrication and construction, partnering with some of the most respected companies in the Pacific Northwest. Their portfolio includes complex structural steel and bridge infrastructure projects, and their reputation is built on precision, reliability, and delivering high-quality work safely and efficiently. This is a team that takes pride in what they build and how they support one another.

This is more than just a job—it's an opportunity to build a long-term career. For the right person, this role is designed to evolve into a Project Engineer position approximately 90-120 days after conversion, with compensation increasing to up to $65,000 annually. We're looking less for someone with the perfect industry background and more for someone with the drive, critical thinking skills, positive attitude, and desire to grow. If you're looking to pivot into the steel or construction industry, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for. While this isn't an entry-level position in the workforce, it is an excellent entry point into the industry.

Responsibilities

• Support project management efforts to ensure schedules, materials, and workflows align with project timelines.
• Assist with production scheduling, tracking progress, and updating planning systems.
• Pull, analyze, and report on production data to support decision-making and improve efficiency.
• Maintain documentation and help ensure compliance with production processes.
• Partner closely with operations and project management to keep projects moving smoothly.
• Assist with cross-functional support, including HR and payroll-related tasks.
• Spend time both in the office and on the production floor to stay connected to operations (hard hat and reflective gear required at times).
• Utilize Excel and internal systems to extract data, build reports, and support planning functions.
• Leverage technology and AI tools to improve processes and streamline workflows.

Requirements

• Strong technical aptitude and confidence working with data.
• Advanced Excel skills, including formulas, pivot tables, and data analysis.
• Experience supporting production planning, operations, project coordination, or similar functions.
• Ability to work collaboratively across multiple departments.
• Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills.
• A proactive mindset with the desire to learn and grow into a Project Engineer role.

Qualifications

• Self-starter who takes initiative without needing constant direction.
• Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Tech savvy and quick to learn new software and systems.
• Comfortable spending time on the production floor when needed.
• Positive attitude with a genuine interest in building a long-term career.
• Someone who enjoys creating order from chaos and never loses track of the details.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in manufacturing, construction, engineering support, or industrial environments.
• Exposure to compliance, payroll, project coordination, or HR support.
• Familiarity with AI tools, automation, or process improvement initiatives.

Pay

$28-$31/hour during the contract period. Potential compensation increase to up to $65,000 annually upon promotion to Project Engineer.

Schedule

Monday-Thursday | Four 10-hour shifts (flexibility based on production needs).

Benefits

• Opportunity to transition into a Project Engineer role within approximately 90-120 days after hire.
• Four-day workweek with three-day weekends.
• Join a stable, growing company with an outstanding reputation.
• Leadership committed to mentoring and promoting from within.
• Gain exposure to both office operations and hands-on production.
• Long-term career growth with increasing responsibility.