Project Engineer

JOB RESPONSIBILITES (include but are not limited to):

Project Management:

• Leads the full lifecycle of capital and improvement projects from conception through completion, ensuring scope, schedule, cost, and quality objectives are met.
• Develops project charters, schedules, budgets, risk assessments, and status reports.
• Prepares project justifications, cost estimates, and supporting documentation for management approval.
• Creates detailed technical specifications for procurement of equipment, materials, and contracted services.
• Coordinates with vendors, contractors, and external engineering resources; serves as the primary liaison between plant operations and external partners.
• Oversees installation, commissioning, startup, and performance testing of assigned projects.
• Manages multiple concurrent projects while ensuring alignment with operational priorities and safety requirements.
• Ensures all project activities comply with corporate engineering standards, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
• Coordinates special projects and assigned initiatives.

Process Improvement:

• Supports development, execution, and evaluation of process trials and pilot initiatives.
• Develops and monitors KPIs for equipment and process performance; communicates findings and recommendations to leadership.
• Provides technical support during implementation of process changes, modifications, and upgrades.
• Works closely with operators and plant staff to ensure consistent understanding and execution of operating practices across all shifts.

Compliance:

• Assists with developing and updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Supports compliance efforts related to EPA Title V, OSHA, FSMA, and other applicable regulatory frameworks.
• Maintains up-to-date P&ID drawings, block flow diagrams, and other engineering documentation.

Training & Technical Support:

• Serves as a technical resource for operations, maintenance, and other departments.
• Provides engineering support and planning for facility Turnaround activities.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS and ABILITIES:

• Demonstrated ability to lead projects in a team environment with strong collaboration and influencing skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to convey technical concepts clearly and professionally.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities.
• Ability to diagnose problems, propose solutions, and facilitate effective decision-making.
• Proficiency with plant control systems and ability to support others in their use.
• Strong analytical capability, including data evaluation and interpretation to drive project and process improvements.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field required.
• Minimum of two years of relevant engineering or project-engineering experience required.
• Experience in chemical, food, or fuel production processes and technology strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in data analysis and database development.
• Capital project management experience preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office required; experience with project-management software preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
• Must be able to access and navigate each department at the organization's facilities.

BENEFITS:

• Heartland Corn Product employees are eligible for benefits the first of the month after 30 days of successful employment. HCP offers medical, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; an employer sponsored health reimbursement