Sr. Project Engineer in Columbus

Senior Project Engineer – Plant & Capital Initiatives

Location:

Columbus, Ohio

A global industrial manufacturer is seeking a Senior Project Engineer to lead plant engineering and capital investment projects at its Columbus-area facility. This role is instrumental in executing projects that enhance production capabilities, improve reliability, and modernize facility infrastructure.

Reporting into a global engineering leadership function, this position is responsible for managing projects from initial concept through completion, ensuring alignment with operational goals, safety standards, and budget expectations.

• Define project scope, technical requirements, and detailed work plans
• Lead vendor selection processes, including preparation and evaluation of RFQs
• Drive project performance against established timelines, budgets, and KPIs
• Oversee equipment installation, system integration, commissioning, and final closeout activities

Projects may include new installations or upgrades to bulk material handling systems, mixing and processing equipment, thermal systems, and automated dosing or control systems.

• Identify opportunities to enhance manufacturing efficiency through process and equipment improvements
• Conduct root cause analysis on operational challenges and implement sustainable solutions
• Apply lean and continuous improvement methodologies to optimize workflows and reduce waste

• Manage full lifecycle of plant engineering projects, including concept development, design, execution, and documentation
• Develop technical specifications and coordinate procurement of equipment and services
• Create and review mechanical layouts, system designs, and P&
• Partner with contractors and vendors to ensure high-quality project delivery

• Provide hands‑on engineering support during major equipment failures or system issues
• Diagnose recurring maintenance challenges and implement corrective actions
• Assist with equipment repairs when necessary and recommend preventive maintenance strategies
• Support training initiatives related to new systems, safety practices, and operational procedures

• Work closely with maintenance, production, and other internal teams to align project goals with operational needs
• Engage with global counterparts and participate in regular cross‑regional meetings

• Support projects across multiple manufacturing sites as needed
• Travel periodically (approximately 3–4 times per year) for site visits, installations, or evaluations
• Participate in recurring virtual meetings across different time zones

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical discipline (or equivalent experience)
• 7+ years of experience in industrial or plant engineering environments
• Proven track record managing capital projects, ideally with budgets at or above $1M
• Strong knowledge of industrial equipment, safety standards, and manufacturing systems (e.g., material handling, dust collection)
• Solid understanding of mechanical and electrical engineering principles
• Proficiency with CAD tools and engineering documentation
• Demonstrated problem‑solving ability with a practical, hands‑on approach
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Flexibility to support projects outside standard hours when required

• New facility construction or major plant expansions
• Industrial controls, PLC programming, or automation systems
• HVAC and facility systems
• Combustion systems or thermal processing equipment