Project Engineer

About the Role

This role is ideal for an engineer who thrives in a hands-on environment and enjoys seeing projects move from concept to production. The Project Engineer will support a specialty manufacturing group by estimating work, launching new projects, optimizing processes, and partnering directly with customers and internal teams. This position blends engineering, project coordination, and continuous improvement responsibilities within a fast-paced manufacturing setting.

What You'll Do

• Serve as a primary point of contact for customer-related technical questions, ensuring project requirements are understood and aligned before work begins.
• Support quoting efforts by developing accurate estimates for new or custom projects.
• Maintain and update ERP data, including BOMs, routings, and other project-specific information.
• Prepare documentation for project launches, such as process flows, layouts, and standard operating procedures.
• Assist with the design and improvement of workholding, fixtures, and tooling.
• Manage ordering of consumables and materials needed for project execution.
• Develop or refine testing procedures to support product validation and quality initiatives.
• Collaborate with engineering and customers to improve manufacturability and drive cost-effective solutions.
• Monitor daily performance trends, escalate concerns, and communicate updates to leadership.
• Review gross margin results for assigned projects and recommend improvement actions when needed.
• Lead cross-functional readiness activities for new project introductions.
• Track and follow up on open action items to maintain project timelines.
• Generate clear reporting for visibility across teams.
• Perform other engineering or project-related duties as needed.

What You Bring

• Experience with capital project management.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks or comparable CAD software.
• Hands-on experience with machining equipment such as mills, machining centers, and lathes.
• Fixture/tooling design experience strongly preferred.
• Solid understanding of lean manufacturing principles and process improvement.
• Strong knowledge of common manufacturing processes.
• Ability to interpret and update engineering drawings to support manufacturability improvements.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering — or equivalent practical experience.
• At least 6 years of relevant experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with welding processes.