Project Engineer (Mechanical / Systems Integration Focus)

Reports To:  Engineering Manager

Position Summary

The Project Engineer plays a critical role in the successful execution of integrated packaging and material handling systems. This role bridges engineering design, project management, and field execution—ensuring that systems are not only well-designed, but buildable, installable, and successful in real-world operating conditions.

This is not a desk-only design role. The ideal candidate is comfortable owning projects from concept through commissioning, working across mechanical design, vendor coordination, controls integration, and on-site startup.

A strong mechanical engineering foundation is required, with additional value placed on robotics experience (FANUC preferred) and system-level thinking.

Key Responsibilities

Project Ownership & Execution

• Lead engineering execution of projects from kickoff through commissioning
• Translate customer requirements into functional system designs and layouts  
• Manage project scope, timelines, and technical deliverables in coordination with internal and external teams  
• Serve as the technical point of contact for customers, vendors, and internal stakeholders  

Mechanical Design & System Layout

• Develop and refine system layouts (AutoCAD / SolidWorks) for integrated packaging lines  
• Design conveyor systems, equipment integration points, guarding, and structural elements  
• Ensure designs reflect real-world constraints: product flow, accumulation, ergonomics, serviceability, and safety
• Support design reviews and iterative improvements as projects evolve  

Integration & Vendor Coordination

• Work across multiple OEMs to integrate best-fit equipment into a cohesive system  
• Review vendor drawings and ensure alignment with overall system design and performance expectations  
• Coordinate mechanical and controls interfaces between equipment  
• Support procurement with technical validation of equipment selections  

Robotics & Automation (Preferred Experience)

• Support design and integration of robotic systems (primarily palletizing – FANUC preferred)  
• Participate in reach studies, end-of-arm-tooling (EOAT) concepts, and cell layouts  
• Collaborate with controls engineers on robot integration and functionality  
• Ensure safe and effective robotic cell design (guarding, risk assessments, etc.)  

Testing, Commissioning & Field Support

• Lead or support Integrator Acceptance Testing (IAT) at Ambrose facility  
• Support Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) with OEMs when required  
• Travel to customer sites for installation support, startup, and system commissioning  
• Troubleshoot mechanical and system-level issues during startup and ramp-up  

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Applications Engineering during project handoff  
• Partner with Controls Engineering on system functionality and sequencing  
• Support Sales with technical input when needed (not a primary sales role)  
• Coordinate with Service team for long-term system support considerations  

Qualifications & Experience

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and or 7+ year in related field experience in industrial equipment, automation, or system integration  S
• Strong proficiency in AutoCAD (SolidWorks preferred)  
• Experience with mechanical system design and layout development  
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment  
• Willingness to travel (~25–40%)  

Preferred

• Experience in packaging, material handling, or end-of-line automation  
• Robotics experience (FANUC highly preferred; palletizing applications a plus)  
• Exposure to controls systems (PLC/HMI fundamentals)  
• Experience with conveyors, case handling, filling systems, or palletizing  
• Project management experience or demonstrated ownership of projects  

Core Competencies

• Systems Thinking: Ability to see the full line—not just individual machines  ‍
• Practical Design Approach: Designs that work in the field, not just on paper  ‍
• Problem Solving: Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis skills  ‍
• Communication: Clear, direct communication across internal teams and customers  ‍
• Accountability: Ownership mindset from design through startup  ‍
• Adaptability: Comfortable in a fluid environment with evolving project needs  

What Success Looks Like

• Projects are executed on time with minimal rework  
• Systems perform as intended in real production environments  
• Strong collaboration across engineering, sales, and field teams  
• Effective handling of field challenges without escalation where possible  
• Continuous improvement in design standards and execution processes