Project Engineer/Project Manager

Job Summary: We are seeking a hands-on Project Engineer / Project Manager to lead the full lifecycle execution of complex, multi-million-dollar industrial equipment projects. This role combines mechanical engineering expertise with project leadership responsibility, overseeing design coordination, fabrication, assembly, installation, and commissioning of large-scale stainless steel food processing systems. The initial assignment will lead the build and deployment of full line solutions used in high-volume poultry/protein processing operations. This role leads cross-functional teams, while serving as a key technical interface with customers, vendors, and internal engineering groups and departments. Duties/Responsibilities: Project Leadership & Execution * Own full project lifecycle from design review through fabrication, assembly, installation, and commissioning. * Manage multi-million-dollar equipment builds, schedules, and execution plans. * Lead build activities for large stainless steel industrial processing equipment. * Coordinate project scope, timelines, and resources across engineering, manufacturing, and field service. * Ensure projects meet technical, quality, and delivery objectives. Engineering & Technical Oversight * Provide mechanical engineering leadership for industrial food processing equipment. * Review and support equipment designs using SolidWorks. * Support integration of mechanical systems with Allen-Bradley PLC controls. * Ensure compliance with sanitary design principles and food safety standards. * Drive continuous improvement in design, manufacturability, and system performance. Team and Project Leadership * Assist with leading and directing teams of welders, assemblers, and field service technicians through the life cycle of projects. * Provide technical guidance, task prioritization, and performance direction. * Coordinate work across sales, service, mechanical and electrical engineering teams. Customer & Vendor Engagement * Serve as a technical point of contact for customers throughout project execution. * Coordinate equipment installation and commissioning activities at customer sites. * Manage vendor and supplier relationships supporting project delivery. Quality & Operational Excellence * Ensure adherence to manufacturing standards, safety requirements, and company quality expectations. * Identify risks and resolve technical and execution challenges proactively. * Support continuous improvement initiatives within engineering and production. * Performs other related duties/projects as assigned. Required Qualifications * Strong mechanical engineering and project management background. * Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience is strongly preferred. * 5-10 years of experience in project engineering, equipment manufacturing, or industrial systems. * Experience leading technical teams in manufacturing or industrial environments. * Experience with SolidWorks or similar CAD platforms. * Experience working with large mechanical systems, fabrication, or equipment assembly. * Ability to manage complex projects in a fast-paced OEM environment. * Strong problem-solving and communication skills. Preferred Qualifications * Experience with food processing or industrial OEM equipment. * Experience with stainless steel fabrication and sanitary equipment design. * Familiarity with Allen-Bradley PLC-controlled systems. * Experience managing full lifecycle equipment projects. * PMP or project management certification. * · HACCP Certification: Focuses on identifying and controlling hazards in food production, often required for engineers designing processing lines. * · Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM): Demonstrates proficiency in food safety regulations (FDA/USDA) and is often a legal requirement for supervisory roles in Georgia. * · FSMA Training: Specialized training in the Food Safety Modernization Act is critical for ensuring equipment helps clients remain compliant with federal law. * · 3-A Sanitary Standards: Knowledge of these criteria is essential for designing equipment that can be effectively cleaned (CIP/COP). * · EHEDG (European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group): Highly valued for international projects or companies with global clients. * Experience supporting installation and commissioning of industrial equipment. * Ability to communicate/present to all levels of audiences Work Environment & Location * Location: Gainesville, Georgia * Primarily on-site role. * Travel: approximately 25% Targets and Goals: Safety Targets * Complete near miss forms as needed and turn into manager to ensure corrective action has been taken to resolve the issue and/or raise safety awareness. MP Equipment will use this as a guide for safety training during the monthly copier chats and toolbox talks * Continuously abide by all company safety policies/procedures including but not limited to PPE, accident reporting, back safety, fire evacuation, emergency action plan and bloodborne pathogens. * Housekeeping - Work Area is kept clean and organized keeping passage/doorways clear. Cost Savings Contribute to MP continuous improvement by identifying opportunities for improvement and suggesting better, more efficient processes Required Skills/Abilities: * Project Management - Initiate, plan, execute, control, and close the work of the team to achieve specific goals and meet specific success criteria. * Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one. * Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems. * Leadership/Management - Motivating, developing, and directing teams as they work, identifying the best associates for the job. * Time Management - Organize and plan time according to timelines of projects. Direct team on timelines and project completion dates. * Communication - Express your ideas and views clearly, confidently and concisely. Promote efficient and effective communication within the team. * Making Decisions and Solving Problems - Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems. * Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others - Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks. * Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work - Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work. * Scheduling Work and Activities - Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others. * Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events - Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events. * Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material - Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects. * Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings - Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

Created: 2026-04-02