Project Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer

Project Engineer – Food Manufacturing (Cap Ex / Production Expansion)

Location: Bartlett, IL

Compensation: $85,000–$115,000 (DOE)

Start Date: Early 2026

Industry: Food Co-Packing / Co-Manufacturing

Our client, a fast‑growing food co‑packer transitioning into full co‑manufacturing, is expanding its production capabilities and adding a Project Engineer to support existing projects as well as a major upcoming production line expansion. If you thrive in fast‑moving environments, enjoy being hands‑on, and want to grow inside an organization that rewards initiative, this is a strong career opportunity.

What You’ll Do

• Lead project development activities including concepts, design layouts, cost estimates, equipment research, timelines, and contingency planning.
• Manage Cap Ex projects end‑to‑end—defining scope, budgets, schedules, and validating user requirements.
• Create and update detailed project schedules and facility layouts using AutoCAD or similar 2D CAD tools.
• Coordinate bidding processes, evaluate vendors, and manage contracts and requisitions.
• Oversee vendor and contractor performance to ensure safety, reliability, and adherence to schedules.
• Participate in FATs, equipment validations, and on‑site technical inspections.
• Direct equipment installation, commissioning, and startup activities; ensure smooth handoff to Production and Maintenance.
• Maintain facility‑wide AutoCAD layouts and plant utility capacity data.
• Partner with the Safety Manager to ensure equipment and process compliance with safety standards.

Who You Are

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field.
• 2–5 years of experience leading Cap Ex or project engineering initiatives.
• Strong proficiency in AutoCAD or similar 2D CAD systems.
• Background in manufacturing required; food or contract manufacturing experience is a strong plus.
• Knowledge of plant operations, processing systems, or packaging equipment.
• A creative thinker who enjoys solving problems, improving processes, and working outside the box.

Working Conditions

• Split between office and plant‑floor environments (approx. 55–80°F).

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Company is growing and expanding into co‑manufacturing—new projects and technologies are constantly coming.
• Engineering team is currently top‑heavy, which means ton of room for upward growth for someone early‑career.
• Highly collaborative culture where ideas are welcomed and implemented quickly.

Seniority Level: Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type: Full‑time

Job Function: Engineering and Project Management

Industries: Engineering Services and Food and Beverage Manufacturing

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