Project Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer

Title: Project Engineer
Compensation: $60-$80K
Location: Fort Wayne, Indiana

Job Description

Our client is seeking a Project Engineer for a direct‑hire opportunity at their Fort Wayne, Indiana facilities. This position offers the chance to work hands‑on with custom machine design, product development, floor‑support engineering, and specialty projects for a long‑standing, family‑owned manufacturing company.

• Execute engineering projects as assigned by the VP of Engineering.
• Generate production drawings, including 2D and 3D models (Inventor or AutoCAD).
• Assist shop‑floor personnel with troubleshooting, design changes, assembly issues, and hands‑on problem solving.
• Support product development initiatives and create initial design layouts and concepts for customer review.
• Provide technical support to customers and Parts & Service Repair teams.
• Participate in machine design, testing, and re‑configuration projects.
• Work across multiple functions - design, fabrication troubleshooting, communication with the shop, vendor interaction, and internal/special assignments.
• Apply mathematical concepts including geometry, trigonometry, ratios, and proportions to real‑world engineering problems.
• Lead quick‑turn solutions on the production floor (e.g., solving interference or accessibility issues in assemblies).
• Take ownership of specialized long‑term engineering projects (e.g., designing a standalone test structure for large machinery).
• Demonstrate confidence in selecting a direction, asking questions, and determining next steps based on the scenario.
• Participate in onsite installations, prototype verification, machine adjustments, and follow‑ups with plant personnel when needed.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• 3+ years of experience in product development, design engineering, or project engineering.
• Proficiency in 3D modeling or design software (Inventor or AutoCAD preferred).
• Ability to work hands‑on with the shop floor and understand manufacturing processes.
• Experience in new product development and product design.
• Process improvement experience and mindset.
• Knowledge of FEA, fatigue analysis, and structural analysis.

• Machine design experience.
• Lean manufacturing or fabrication process exposure.
• Hands‑on experience in fabrication, maintenance, or similar environments.

• Hours:
  
  Monday‑Friday, 1st shift

This is a direct hire position that pays from $60K-$80K. This company does offer benefits including 401K match, health, dental, and vision insurance.