Mechanical Project Engineer

Port Townsend Paper Corporation • Port Townsend, WA

12d • $125,000 - $193,750 • Onsite

About The Position

Port Townsend Paper Company (PTPC) is seeking a Mechanical Project Engineer to join their on-site team in Port Townsend, WA. This is a hands-on engineering role focused on improving and sustaining mill operations. The role involves working with both new and aged infrastructure, leading or supporting capital projects, and contributing to site reliability and efficiency. The company has been in continuous operation for over 90 years, producing Kraft pulp, paper, containerboard, medium, and market pulp. PTPC emphasizes a healthy and safe work environment, risk management, and environmental preservation, aiming to be a valued community member. This position plays a central role in developing and executing capital projects throughout the mill's operations, collaborating across teams to identify problems, develop technical solutions, and oversee field execution safely and efficiently. Candidates will be placed into one of three levels (Engineer I, II, or III) based on their experience and technical depth.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or civil engineering.
• Strong interest in industrial work.
• Familiarity with gated capital processes for project development and execution.
• Comfort working in a hands-on environment with complex machinery and systems.
• AutoCAD skills preferred.
• 5-10 years of experience in a heavy industrial, utilities, or manufacturing setting, preferably pulp and paper (for Engineer II).
• Demonstrated experience delivering projects from design through implementation (for Engineer II).
• Firsthand knowledge of machinery and processes common to pulp and paper mills (for Engineer II).
• Strong communication and collaboration skills across departments (for Engineer II).
• Large kraft paper machine experience preferred (for Engineer II).
• PE license preferred but not required (for Engineer II).
• AutoCAD proficiency and PM design software experience preferred (for Engineer II).
• 10+ years of engineering experience in a pulp/paper mill or similar industrial environment (for Engineer III).
• Proven ability to lead multi-phase projects involving mechanical and/or civil components (for Engineer III).
• Experience managing vendor relationships, cost tracking, and technical compliance (for Engineer III).
• Familiarity with aging equipment and the ability to navigate upgrade vs. repair decisions (for Engineer III).
• Large kraft paper machine experience required (for Engineer III).
• PE license (for Engineer III).
• AutoCAD proficiency and PM design software experience preferred (for Engineer III).

Nice To Haves

• Internships or co-op experience welcome (for Engineer I).
• Large kraft paper machine experience preferred (for Engineer II).
• PE license preferred but not required (for Engineer II).
• AutoCAD proficiency and PM design software experience preferred (for Engineer II).
• PE license (for Engineer III).
• AutoCAD proficiency and PM design software experience preferred (for Engineer III).

Responsibilities

• Support the design, installation, repair, and/or replacement of mechanical equipment common to the pulp and paper industry.
• Evaluate existing equipment and systems, recommend repairs or upgrades, and/or facilitate this activity with qualified consultants.
• Prepare project scopes, drawings, technical specifications, schedules, and budgets.
• Lead or assist in the planning and execution of shutdowns and turnarounds.
• Investigate equipment failures and root causes, implementing long-term corrective actions.
• Interpret engineering codes and standards applicable to mechanical and civil systems (ASME, etc).
• Collaborate with internal teams, external contractors, and vendors to execute projects safely, on time, and on budget.
• Maintain and update engineering documentation, including CAD drawings, equipment manuals, and design calculations.
• Participate in plant-wide safety initiatives and ensure engineering practices align with compliance requirements.
• Participate in periodic on-call weekends to support mill operations.
• Mentor junior engineers, lead risk assessments, and contribute to long-range planning (for more senior levels).

Benefits

• Salary Range: $125,000 to $193,500
• Vacation DOE, ranging from 3-5 weeks
• 9 paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
• Retirement plan
• Employee Assistance coverage with full services, including dietary and nutritional services, retirement planning, and support services.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level