Project Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer

Title:

Project Engineer

Location:

Pasadena, TX

Who we are:

Voted one of the Nation's Best and Brightest Companies to Work for, Kuraray America, Inc. (KAI) is a global leader in specialty chemical, fiber, and resin production. With top-of-the-line research and production facilities and a vast network of supplies from around the world, Kuraray leads the industry in specialty dental, fiber, resin, and elastomer products. Kuraray America is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kuraray Company, Ltd.

Based in Tokyo, Japan. Kuraray has operations in 32 countries and employs more than 11,000 employees, including over 800 in the United States.

Why Kuraray:

Kuraray is building a better tomorrow, today. Our team members are dedicated to expanding our business with committed professionals who share essential values such as integrity, excellence, teamwork, and accountability.

As a part of Kuraray America, Inc., our team shares the advantages of working for the leader in specialty chemicals, resins, and fibers. Our international presence and resources allow us to be a world-leading innovator in the industries we service. Yet, despite our size, our people are more than just a number. As a new team member, you can expect to earn responsibility quickly.

Our commitment to our people is visible in our comprehensive benefits package. As a Kuraray team member, you will have the opportunity to enjoy competitive salaries and benefits, incentive opportunities, and an excellent work environment.

Position Summary:

The Project Engineer manages small to medium-scale engineering projects from concept through commissioning. This role develops project scopes, specifications, budgets, and schedules, ensuring projects are executed safely, efficiently, and within approved cost and timeline. The Project Engineer collaborates with cross-functional teams and contractors to support operational improvements and capital initiatives within the EVAL manufacturing site.

Responsibilities:

Project Planning & Design

* Develop project objectives, technical scopes, cost estimates, and feasibility analyses.

* Prepare detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and equipment data sheets.

* Participate in the annual capital budget process by proposing and justifying new project ideas.

Project Execution

* Manage assigned projects through all phase design, procurement, construction, startup, and commissioning.

* Coordinate contractors and suppliers to ensure compliance with scope, safety, and quality standards.

* Monitor project costs, schedules, and progress; provide monthly status reports.

* Lead Management of Change (MOC) processes for assigned projects.

Technical Support

* Provide technical expertise to operations and maintenance teams during project implementation.

* Support troubleshooting, equipment upgrades, and process improvements within assigned areas.

* Develop knowledge of process and chemical industry equipment selection and installation.

Reporting & Compliance

* Maintain accurate project documentation, drawings, and specifications.

* Ensure compliance with plant safety programs, environmental regulations, and engineering standards.

* Participate in contractor safety reviews and training activities.

Continuous Improvement & Collaboration

* Identify and recommend process or equipment improvements to enhance reliability and performance.

* Collaborate with other disciplines (civil, electrical, controls) to ensure integrated project execution.

Minimum Qualifications:

* Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, or related discipline).

* Minimum of 5years of experience in project or process engineering in a manufacturing or chemical plant environment.

* Solid understanding of mechanical systems, piping, and industrial standards (ANSI, ASME).

* Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.

* Experience with cost estimating, scheduling, and project economics.

* Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

* Proficiency in Microsoft Office and MS Project or equivalent.

* Valid driver's license required.

Competencies:

* Customer Focus

* Building strong customer relationships and delivering customer-centric solutions.

* Business Insight

* Applying knowledge of business and the marketplace to advance the organization's goals.

* Cultivates Innovation

* Creating new and better ways for the organization to be successful.

* Action Oriented

* Taking on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm.

* Ensures Accountability

* Holding self and others accountable to meet commitments.

* Drives Results

* Consistently achieving results, even under tough circumstance

* Collaborates

* Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives.

* Values Difference

* Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization

* Communicates Effectively

* Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.

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