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Project Engineer
Location: Henrico, VA
Reports to: Senior Manager – Engineering & Maintenance
Department: Central Engineering
Shift: 1st Shift
Salary: $75,000
Job Type: Direct Hire
We are seeking an experienced Project Engineer to join our team in Henrico, VA.
Position Summary
The Project Engineer will manage and execute capital and process improvement projects from concept to completion. Responsibilities include equipment specification, procurement, installation, validation, and start-up, with a focus on safety, compliance, quality, and cost-effectiveness. This role supports operations through engineering expertise, process optimization, and innovation while ensuring adherence to cGMP standards and other regulatory requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Project Management
- Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned projects.
- Plan, coordinate, and manage multiple cross-functional projects.
- Develop project schedules, budgets, and forecasts; monitor KPIs such as on-time completion and cost performance.
- Conduct project reviews and report progress to senior leadership.
- Develop execution strategies and manage risks and mitigation plans.
- Initiate and justify capital project requests.
Technical Execution
- Oversee project design, equipment specification, and installation.
- Create supporting documentation including process specifications, SOPs, and changeover instructions.
- Collaborate with Tech Transfer/R&D for smooth product introduction and equipment implementation.
- Lead packaging line design and layout improvements.
- Analyze and report equipment and line capacity, identifying optimization opportunities.
Compliance & Safety
- Ensure all projects comply with FDA, cGMP, EPA, safety, and internal standards.
- Integrate safety requirements into all project scopes.
- Resolve process and equipment issues to optimize output and minimize contamination.
- Financial & Vendor Management
- Prepare cost estimates and manage project budgets.
- Work with Purchasing to develop bid packages and evaluate vendor proposals.
- Coordinate with external contractors and vendors for equipment delivery, installation, and commissioning.
Collaboration & Communication
- Coordinate with internal departments to align project objectives.
- Lead or participate in cross-functional teams.
- Maintain clear communication with all stakeholders and provide timely updates.
- Professional Development & Leadership
- Provide guidance to team members or hourly staff as needed.
- Promote training, empowerment, and recognition to drive employee engagement.
- Support a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
Education & Experience:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Chemical Engineering, or related technical field required.
- 2–5+ years of project management experience, preferably in pharmaceutical, cosmetics, biotech, or food manufacturing.
- Experience managing capital projects in a cGMP-regulated facility preferred.
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong project planning, budgeting, and scheduling skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and adapt to changing priorities.
- Technical proficiency in engineering principles, process troubleshooting, and equipment design.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Knowledge of compliance standards (cGMP, FDA, EPA).
- Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
Working Conditions & Physical Demands
- Work is performed in both office and plant environments.
- Ability to walk, stand, bend, stoop, and lift up to 30 lbs.
- Exposure to noise, machinery, and varying temperatures in operational areas.
- PPE required in production areas.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance
- Company-paid short-term disability, life, and accidental death insurance
- 401(k) with 4.5% company match and immediate vesting
- Paid vacation and holidays
- Generous employee referral program
- Onsite cafeteria
Job advancement opportunities
- Manufacturing employees receive company-paid work shoes, uniforms, and prescription safety glasses
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