Project Engineer

ITW•Rockford, IL

45d

About The Position

Job Summary: The Project Engineer is responsible for managing and coordinating engineering projects from concept through production using structured product development processes such as APQP/PPFU. This role collaborates cross-functionally with engineering, manufacturing, quality, sales, and customer service teams to ensure successful product launches, maintain strong customer relationships, and support continuous improvement initiatives. Our Division: ITW Seats & Motion, a division within the Automotive Segment of ITW, designs and manufactures innovative seating and motion solutions for global customers. While serving leading automotive OEMs and Tier suppliers, we also support the office furniture and stadium seating markets. Our expertise includes seating adjustment systems and motion-control technologies such as viscous dampers, air dampers, and latching systems that enhance comfort, safety, and performance across a variety of applications.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or related field) preferred.
Experience managing engineering or manufacturing projects, preferably within a manufacturing environment.
Knowledge of product development and launch processes such as APQP or similar structured project management frameworks.
Experience with CAD software for reviewing and modifying product designs.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret technical testing data.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to coordinate across cross-functional teams and interact with customers.
Strong organizational and documentation skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and budget requirements.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting RFQ processes or working with sales teams on technical quotations is preferred.
Experience with continuous improvement methodologies is a plus.

Responsibilities

Manage minor engineering projects using the APQP/PPFU framework to ensure milestones, timelines, and budgets are achieved.
Coordinate and lead project activities from initial concept through launch and production readiness.
Lead product testing activities for both internal and customer requirements; analyze results and prepare technical reports.
Develop, update, and maintain work instructions and technical documentation related to product and process changes.
Serve as the primary liaison between project teams, customers, and internal leadership to communicate project status and resolve issues.
Facilitate cross-functional meetings with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and customer service teams to ensure alignment on new product launches.
Support the Sales team during the RFQ process by providing technical input and ensuring program quotes are accurate and feasible.
Review and modify product designs using CAD software to meet customer and internal requirements.
Build and maintain relationships with customer engineering counterparts to support strong customer engagement and collaboration.
Participate in Customer Back Innovation (CBI) initiatives to drive operational efficiency and innovation.