Project Engineer (Mechanical / Systems Integration Focus)

Key Responsibilities

• Lead engineering execution of projects from kickoff through commissioning
• Translate customer requirements into functional system designs and layouts
• Manage project scope, timelines, and technical deliverables in coordination with internal and external teams
• Serve as the technical point of contact for customers, vendors, and internal stakeholders
• Develop and refine system layouts (AutoCAD / SolidWorks) for integrated packaging lines
• Design conveyor systems, equipment integration points, guarding, and structural elements
• Ensure designs reflect real-world constraints: product flow, accumulation, ergonomics, serviceability, and safety
• Support design reviews and iterative improvements as projects evolve
• Work across multiple OEMs to integrate best-fit equipment into a cohesive system
• Review vendor drawings and ensure alignment with overall system design and performance expectations
• Care for mechanical and controls interfaces between equipment
• Support procurement with technical validation of equipment selections
• Support design and integration of robotic systems (primarily palletizing – FANUC preferred)
• Participate in reach studies, end-of-arm-tooling (EOAT) concepts, and cell layouts
• Collaborate with controls engineers on robot integration and functionality
• Ensure safe and effective robotic cell design (guarding, risk assessments, etc.)
• Lead or support Integrator Acceptance Testing (IAT) at Ambrose facility
• Support Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) with OEMs when required
• Travel to customer sites for installation support, startup, and system commissioning
• Troubleshoot mechanical and system-level issues during startup and ramp-up
• Work closely with Applications Engineering during project handoff
• Partner with Controls Engineering on system functionality and sequencing
• Support Sales with technical input when needed (not a primary sales role)
• Cookordination with Service team for long-term system support considerations

Qualifications & Experience

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and or 7+ years in related field experience in industrial equipment, automation, or system integration
• Strong proficiency in AutoCAD (SolidWorks preferred)
• Experience with mechanical system design and layout development
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Willingness to travel (~25–40%)
• Preferred: Experience in packaging, material handling, or end-of-line automation
• Robotics experience (FANUC highly preferred; palletizing applications a plus)
• Exposure to controls systems (PLC/HMI fundamentals)
• Experience with conveyors, case handling, filling systems, or palletizing
• Project management experience or demonstrated ownership of projects

Core Competencies

• Systems Thinking: Ability to see the full line—not just individual machines
• Practical Design Approach: Designs that work in the field, not just on paper
• Problem Solving: Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis skills
• Communication: Clear, direct communication across internal teams and customers
• Accountability: Ownership mindset from design through startup
• Adaptability: Comfortable in a fluid environment with evolving project needs