Project Engineer

Soprema•Wadsworth, OH

16d

About The Position

The Project Engineer manages the design, implementation, optimization, and execution of capital projects, manufacturing equipment installations, facility expansions, and process improvement initiatives across SOPREMA Group manufacturing sites in the United States. The role provides technical support to operations, engineering, maintenance, quality, and facilities teams, ensuring projects are completed safely, on schedule, within budget, and in line with operational requirements. The Project Engineer leads projects from concept through startup, including project justification, equipment design, supplier selection, installation, commissioning, training, and ongoing support. The position also provides engineering support across manufacturing facilities, contributes to continuous improvement and standardization, and collaborates on construction, plant expansion, and infrastructure projects. Approximately 45% travel within SOPREMA Group manufacturing facilities is required, along with occasional international travel.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related engineering discipline.
At least three years of experience designing and developing manufacturing equipment, systems, and processes.
Proficiency with CAD and 3D modeling software.
Strong mechanical aptitude and equipment design experience.
Knowledge of machine automation systems.
Knowledge of pumps, valves, flow controls, and vessel design.
Understanding of PLC controls and industrial automation systems.
Knowledge of ROI evaluation and capital project justification methodologies.
Basic understanding of manufacturing operations and quality systems.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Ability to travel approximately 45% within SOPREMA Group manufacturing facilities, with occasional international travel.
Ability to travel by automobile, train, and commercial aircraft.
Valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record.
Valid passport and ability to travel internationally.
Ability to work around operating machinery and process equipment and perform limited physical activities such as lifting materials, handling product samples, and assisting with production-related activities during testing or startup.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing capital projects in a manufacturing environment.
Experience supporting equipment installation, commissioning, and startup activities.
Experience in roofing membrane, foam board insulation, PVC, or related manufacturing industries.
Experience with PLC programming and automation code development.
Experience with process manufacturing equipment and continuous production environments.

Responsibilities

Research and evaluate new processes, technologies, and continuous improvement opportunities.
Develop project concepts, scope definitions, schedules, budgets, and resource requirements.
Prepare project justification documentation, including ROI analyses and capital expenditure requests, and manage project approval documentation.
Identify, evaluate, and develop relationships with suppliers, contractors, engineering firms, and external partners.
Develop, review, and oversee equipment, process, and facility designs.
Create and manage engineering drawings, layouts, and 3D models using CAD software.
Provide technical support to manufacturing operations, maintenance, facilities, and quality departments.
Apply mechanical engineering principles and support troubleshooting of manufacturing and equipment-related issues.
Manage capital projects from conception through implementation and startup, controlling costs and schedules.
Coordinate supplier, contractor, and internal resources throughout project execution.
Manage equipment installation, startup, commissioning, and performance validation.
Ensure equipment and systems meet project objectives, operational requirements, and safety standards.
Provide regular project status updates and presentations to management and stakeholders.
Serve as a technical resource for SOPREMA manufacturing facilities and support maintenance and facilities teams with engineering projects and technical challenges.
Assist manufacturing sites with testing new materials, products, and processes on production equipment.
Collaborate with Quality teams to maintain manufacturing and quality standards while supporting new product development.
Participate in operator and maintenance training related to newly installed equipment and processes.
Provide hands-on support during equipment startup and operational optimization.
Share best practices related to equipment, manufacturing processes, suppliers, and technology across facilities.
Identify and drive improvements to efficiency, reliability, productivity, safety, product quality, and cost performance.
Support standardization efforts across manufacturing locations.
Collaborate with the Engineering Team on construction, plant expansion, and infrastructure projects.
Provide engineering oversight and support for existing manufacturing facilities.
Coordinate with contractors, consultants, and external engineering firms during facility development projects.
Ensure projects comply with applicable design, safety, and operational standards.
Perform other assigned duties, including providing engineering support to Maintenance and Facilities and assisting plants with testing, manufacturing improvements, and product development.