Project Engineer

Job DescriptionJob Description

Project Engineer – Industrial Manufacturing (Data Center Projects)

Itasca, IL
Full-Time | Onsite
$80,000 – $100,000

About the Opportunity

We are a rapidly growing industrial manufacturing organization seeking a Project Engineer to support complex, engineered-to-order equipment projects, with a strong focus on data center systems and new machine builds. This is a newly created role driven by sustained growth, increasing project volume, and long-term expansion plans.

This position blends hands-on mechanical design with project execution, making it ideal for an engineer who enjoys owning projects from concept through delivery while working closely with customers, manufacturing, and cross-functional teams.

What You’ll Do

• Manage engineering projects from initial concept and proposal through manufacturing and final delivery
• Prepare preliminary and proposal-level designs using SolidWorks and AutoCAD
• Participate in and support internal and external design and engineering review meetings
• Coordinate customer approval drawings, documentation, and released drawings
• Serve as a key liaison between engineering, manufacturing, purchasing, service, sales, and customers
• Support manufacturing by resolving technical, design, and execution issues
• Track project schedules, milestones, and deliverables to ensure on-time completion
• Manage project financials including cost tracking and Estimates at Completion (EACs)
• Support engineering change processes and project impact assessments
• Prepare project status updates and reports for internal stakeholders
• Identify opportunities for cost reduction and continuous improvement
• Mentor and support junior engineers as needed
• Support domestic and international travel as required

What We’re Looking For (Required)

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical discipline
• 3–5+ years of experience in project engineering, design engineering, or a closely related role
• Strong proficiency with SolidWorks and AutoCAD
• Solid understanding of mechanical design principles and engineered systems
• Experience supporting projects through the full lifecycle, from design through manufacturing
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet aggressive schedules
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work across engineering, operations, and customers
• Comfortable balancing design engineering work with project coordination responsibilities

Nice to Have

• Experience with custom machinery or engineered-to-order equipment
• Exposure to data center systems, enclosures, or industrial equipment
• Experience tracking project costs, EACs, and managing scope changes
• Familiarity with engineering change processes (ECNs, PCNs, impact notices)
• Experience supporting installations, field service, or commissioning activities
• Interest in mentoring junior engineers and supporting team development

Why Join Us

• Organization with 100+ years of industry experience
• Experiencing significant growth, particularly in data center-related projects
• Strong project backlog and long-term visibility
• Newly created role with room to grow into senior engineering or project leadership positions
• Collaborative engineering and manufacturing environment
• Stable company with expanding facilities and resources

Schedule & Compensation

• Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Salary Range: $80,000 – $100,000 (based on experience)
• Start Date: ASAP