Mechanical Project Engineer

Project Engineer III

Contract Duration: Until 11/01/2026 (High Possibility of Extension)

Locations: Marion, MI 49665

Work Schedule: Hybrid (On-site: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday | Remote: Wednesday, Friday

Position Summary

CMS Energy is seeking a skilled Project Engineer III to join our Gas Compression Project Engineering team. This mechanical engineering role supports both modifications to existing facilities and new construction projects at natural gas compressor stations. The successful candidate will provide technical leadership, coordinate engineering activities, and ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget. This role requires strong collaboration with cross-functional teams including project managers, engineers of other disciplines, environmental engineers, station operations, construction managers, contractors, and vendors.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide engineering support for project development, including feasibility studies, conceptual design, and cost estimating.
• Oversee the development of detailed design documents by external Engineers of Record.
• Review engineering drawings and calculations for compliance with design standards, codes, and project requirements.
• Develop technical specifications, bid documents, and evaluation criteria for engineering, equipment, materials, and construction contracts.
• Lead technical bid evaluations and ensure compliance with project objectives.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders to ensure technical alignment and project success.
• Conduct shop inspections at supplier facilities to verify quality and specification adherence.
• Perform field engineering and assist in resolving construction issues.
• Support testing, commissioning, and start-up of new equipment and facilities.
• Identify, analyze, and recommend corrective actions for technical issues during project execution or initial operations.
• Assist project management and project controls teams with schedules, budgets, and project coordination.
• Participate in project closeout, including documentation turnover and recordkeeping.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
• Minimum 5 years of applied engineering experience in mechanical or related disciplines.
• Experience with the design, construction, and/or operation of natural gas compressor stations.
• Strong knowledge of engineering design standards, applicable codes, and industry best practices.
• Familiarity with CFR 49 Part 192 (Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline), Michigan Gas Safety Standards Guide (MGSS), ASME Codes & Standards (e.g., B31.1, B31.3, B31.8, B16.5/16.47, BPVC), and API Specifications (e.g., API 5L, 6D, 1104).
• Experience in procurement of engineered materials, equipment, and professional services.
• Ability to review and develop contract documents (RFPs), technical specifications, and engineering drawings.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills for multi-level stakeholder engagement.
• Willingness to travel to compressor stations 3–5 days per week.

Preferred Skills

• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Ability to perform moderately complex assignments independently, applying engineering principles and judgment.
• Experience in field troubleshooting, testing, and commissioning of mechanical systems.