Position: Project Engineer
Location: Northern Suburbs of Illinois
Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Summary
Our client is seeking a motivated and results-driven Project Engineer to support manufacturing operations, lead engineering projects, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. This role will focus on optimizing production processes, improving equipment efficiency, reducing scrap and downtime, and implementing factory automation projects.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in manufacturing engineering, project management, and process optimization, along with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally to support new product development and improve overall plant performance.
Key Responsibilities
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Collaborate with manufacturing and maintenance teams to optimize processes and operating systems, minimize scrap and material usage, and reduce equipment downtime.
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Lead and manage factory automation projects, including process modifications, equipment upgrades, and new equipment implementation.
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Generate, update, and maintain product drawings, engineering specifications, and project documentation.
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Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on production layouts, manufacturing methods, material flow, and overall plant efficiency.
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Support cross-functional teams in the development, launch, and implementation of new products.
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Assist with packaging design and development to ensure product protection, manufacturability, and operational efficiency.
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Develop, implement, and maintain quality control methods to ensure consistent product quality and process reliability.
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Conduct capacity analysis to identify production constraints, evaluate equipment utilization, and recommend capital equipment investments as needed.
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Evaluate existing manufacturing operations and identify opportunities to improve productivity, efficiency, and cost effectiveness.
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Coordinate engineering projects from concept through implementation, ensuring timelines, budgets, and project objectives are met.
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Work closely with internal stakeholders to troubleshoot manufacturing challenges and implement sustainable engineering solutions.
Qualifications & Requirements
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Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, preferably Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or a related discipline.
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Experience in project engineering, manufacturing engineering, or process improvement within a manufacturing environment.
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Knowledge of manufacturing processes, equipment, automation systems, and production operations.
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Experience managing engineering projects involving equipment modifications, process improvements, or automation.
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Ability to interpret and maintain engineering drawings, technical specifications, and project documentation.
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Understanding of continuous improvement methodologies and manufacturing efficiency principles.
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Experience with capacity planning, production flow analysis, and equipment utilization.
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Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
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Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across manufacturing, maintenance, quality, and engineering teams.
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Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience with factory automation, equipment integration, and manufacturing process optimization.
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Familiarity with CAD software and engineering design tools.
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Experience with lean manufacturing, waste reduction, and continuous improvement initiatives.
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Knowledge of quality control methods and manufacturing quality systems.
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Experience supporting new product development, packaging design, and production implementation.
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Familiarity with capital equipment justification and manufacturing capacity planning.
What Our Client Is Looking For
A hands-on, solutions-oriented Project Engineer who can bridge engineering and manufacturing operations to deliver measurable improvements in productivity, quality, and efficiency. The successful candidate will be proactive, technically capable, and comfortable managing projects while working closely with cross-functional teams to support the facility’s operational and strategic goals.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
This is an excellent opportunity for an engineering professional who enjoys working directly with manufacturing operations, leading automation and process improvement projects, and making a tangible impact on plant performance. The Project Engineer will play a key role in improving manufacturing efficiency, supporting new product development, and advancing continuous improvement initiatives.



