Description Position at Wilsonart
Project EngineerPosition OverviewThe Project Engineer is responsible for leading and executing engineering projects that improve manufacturing processes, equipment performance, operational efficiency, safety, quality, and cost. This role partners closely with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Continuous Improvement, and other cross-functional teams to identify opportunities, develop solutions, and successfully implement projects from concept through completion.
The ideal candidate combines strong project management skills with hands-on manufacturing experience and the ability to translate technical challenges into practical solutions that deliver measurable business results.
Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesProject Management- Lead and manage capital and improvement projects through the full project lifecycle, including scope development, planning, budgeting, execution, and closeout.
- Develop and maintain project plans, schedules, budgets, and timelines to ensure successful delivery.
- Coordinate cross-functional project teams and ensure alignment with business objectives.
- Communicate project status, risks, and recommendations to key stakeholders.
- Identify potential project risks and develop mitigation plans to keep projects on track.
- Support vendor coordination, equipment selection, installation, startup, and validation activities.
Manufacturing Process Improvement- Evaluate manufacturing processes, equipment, and systems to identify opportunities for improvement.
- Lead initiatives focused on improving key performance indicators including safety, quality, yield, productivity, efficiency, and cost.
- Analyze process issues and develop sustainable corrective actions.
- Utilize problem-solving methodologies such as root cause analysis, process mapping, FMEA, and other continuous improvement tools.
- Partner with Operations and Maintenance teams to troubleshoot manufacturing challenges and improve equipment performance.
Engineering & Technical Support- Develop a strong understanding of plant processes and equipment to serve as a technical resource for Operations and Engineering teams.
- Research and evaluate new technologies, equipment, and process improvements that support business goals.
- Support process changes, equipment upgrades, and manufacturing improvements.
- Assist with plant layouts, workflow improvements, and optimization of manufacturing space and processes.
Continuous Improvement & Collaboration- Lead and support Lean, sustainability, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve process flow, and increase operational effectiveness.
- Build strong working relationships across Operations, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and other functional teams.
- Provide technical guidance and support to project teams and plant personnel.
Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesTechnical & Problem-Solving Skills- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, equipment, and engineering principles.
- Demonstrated ability to identify problems, evaluate solutions, and implement improvements.
- Experience with root cause analysis and structured problem-solving techniques.
- Ability to analyze data and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
Project Management Skills- Experience managing projects from initiation through completion.
- Ability to balance multiple priorities while meeting project timelines and objectives.
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
Leadership & Communication- Ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence without direct authority.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and drive results.
Technology & ToolsRequired:
- Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
Preferred:
- Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, Asana, or similar project management tools
- AutoCAD or similar drafting/design software
- Inventor or similar 3D modeling software
- Minitab or other data analysis tools
- Manufacturing controls experience (Allen Bradley, Siemens, Wonderware, etc.)
Minimum QualificationsEducation:- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
Experience:- 3+ years of engineering, project management, or process improvement experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
- Experience managing technical projects involving equipment, processes, or operational improvements.
- Experience working with cross-functional teams to implement business improvements.
Preferred Qualifications- Experience with capital projects and equipment installations.
- Lean Six Sigma certification or similar continuous improvement experience.
- Experience in a manufacturing environment with process optimization initiatives.
- Professional Engineering (PE) certification or ability to obtain preferred.
Working ConditionsTravel Requirements:15-25%
Physical Requirements:Ability to sit, stand, walk, climb, stoop, and occasionally lift materials or equipment up to 20 lbs.
Environment:Work is performed in a manufacturing environment with regular exposure to operational equipment, noise, temperature variations, fumes, odors, and other industrial conditions.
