Project Engineer

About the role

The Project Engineer supports new and existing customer projects by developing practical engineering solutions, preparing cost and investment inputs, and coordinating cross-functional execution from proposal through startup. This role works closely with Operations, Quality, Procurement, IT, and customers to ensure safe, compliant, and on-time implementation of new products, equipment, technologies, or site changes.

Responsibilities

• Support quotation and proposal work by collecting inputs, building assumptions (labor, space, materials), and helping prepare cost summaries and P&L-ready data.
• Complete technical assessments for new opportunities (process, equipment, layout, compliance risks) and document recommended solutions.
• Develop basic process flows, layouts, and business/operational definitions for new projects and changes to existing operations.
• Build and update technical databases for new projects
• Cook up project startup activities across departments; track actions, timelines, and deliverables, and communicate status to stakeholders.
• Identify startup risks and issues early; support problem-solving and escalate when needed.
• Provide engineering support for new equipment, tooling, and process changes, including supplier coordination and technical documentation.
• Maintain project files, trackers, and databases; prepare regular progress reporting.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives (efficiency, service level, quality, automation) and help standardize startup readiness practices.
• Participate in customer meetings, reviews, and site tours as needed.
• Follow all safety, quality, and regulatory requirements (e.g., ISO, GMP, customer standards, applicable local law).

Requirements

• Educational background: Engineering degree (or equivalent experience) in Industrial, Mechanical, Manufacturing, Packaging, or related field.
• Experience: 3–5 years of experience in manufacturing, packaging, contract manufacturing/packaging, supply chain, or operations engineering (regulated environment preferred).
• Project experience: Experience supporting projects from concept/quote through implementation/startup.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Technical skills: Strong understanding of manufacturing/packaging processes and basic cost drivers. Ability to create process flow diagrams, layouts, and time studies. Analytical skills with strong Excel capability; familiarity with databases/trackers (Access or similar) is a plus. Working knowledge of CAD or layout tools (e.g., AutoCAD) is preferred.
• Soft skills: Good project coordination skills (plans, timelines, action logs, reporting) and comfort managing multiple priorities. Clear communication skills with both internal teams and customers; able to build confidence and keep stakeholders aligned. Team-oriented, accountable, and able to work independently when needed.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

• Work may include office and production floor environments.
• Must be able to read and use computer systems and standard documentation; communicate effectively with teams on-site.
• May require standing/walking for extended periods and occasional lifting up to 35 lbs (medium work level).
• Travel required based on business needs (often 50%, potentially including international travel).