Project Engineer
Company: United Petfood
Job Ref: # 4639840
Date Posted: 4/3/2026 12:00:00 AM
City, State: Mishawaka, IN
Salary: $75,000 - $90,000
Description
Go to end ⇓Company is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Project Engineer to assist in the management of process and capital projects within our manufacturing plant. This role involves planning, executing, and delivering manufacturing improvements, equipment upgrades, plant expansions, and cost-saving initiatives while ensuring safety, quality, and production goals are met.
Project Planning and Coordination:
- Lead and manage manufacturing projects from concept to completion, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and budget.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Procurement, Engineering) to define project objectives, deliverables, and milestones.
- Develop detailed project schedules and adjust plans as necessary to meet evolving project demands.
Technical Design and Implementation:
- Supervise the design, selection, and installation of new equipment and systems to improve manufacturing processes and efficiency.
- Perform feasibility studies, risk assessments, and equipment evaluations to meet safety and operational requirements.
- Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety protocols, and environmental guidelines.
Cost Control and Budget Management:
- Create and manage project budgets, monitor expenditures, and implement cost-effective solutions.
- Identify opportunities for cost reduction while maintaining quality and safety standards.
Process Improvement:
- Evaluate and optimize manufacturing processes to increase efficiency, throughput, and waste reduction.
- Implement Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies to enhance operations.
Quality and Compliance:
- Work closely with the Quality Assurance team to ensure projects meet internal and external quality standards.
- Adhere to OSHA, FDA, environmental, and company-specific regulatory requirements.
Documentation and Reporting:
- Prepare and maintain comprehensive project documentation, including design specs, progress reports, and as-built records.
- Communicate project updates, challenges, and resolutions to stakeholders and senior management.
Training and Support:
- Provide training to plant personnel on new systems, processes, and equipment.
- Support troubleshooting efforts during implementation and post-installation phases.
Must-Have Skills, Education, & Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
- 2-5 years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial setting, with a proven track record of managing technical projects.
- Proficiency in project management tools such as MS Project, AutoCAD, or similar software.
- Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, industrial equipment, and automation systems.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other process improvement tools.
- Strong problem-solving, analytical, and technical troubleshooting abilities.
- Excellent communication skills for interacting with internal teams, vendors, and external stakeholders.
- Adaptability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
- PMP (Project Management Professional), Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, or related certifications are highly desirable.
- Ability to work in a manufacturing plant, including standing, walking, climbing, and lifting as required.
- Occasional exposure to loud noises, elevated temperatures, and industrial equipment.
- Flexibility to work beyond standard hours or on weekends as project timelines dictate.
- Knowledge of food or pet food manufacturing processes is a plus.
- Working knowledge of Wonderware (AVEVA) or similar HMI/SCADA systems is a plus.
- Familiarity with regulatory standards specific to food safety (e.g., FDA, HACCP) is preferred.
- A hands-on approach to project execution and the ability to thrive in a collaborative team environment.
