Project Engineer

Job Title: Project Engineer

Location: Mishawaka, IN

Department: Maintenance & Engineering

Job Type: Full-Time 

About United Petfood:

United Petfood is a private label producer of high-quality dry & wet pet food, biscuits and snacks. We are a Belgian family business with 25 high-tech pet kitchens in Europe and the US. 

Joining us, means joining an international, passionate and driven team with one common goal: a healthy planet filled with healthy pets! But it doesn’t stop there: we truly care about building encouraging, supportive, long-lasting partnerships, both inside as well as outside of our fast-growing family company. By only working with the very best ingredients and most innovative technology available, we ensure a spot in which you can grow, bloom and make thousands of pets happy worldwide!

Position Overview 

United Petfood Producers USA is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Project Engineer to assist in the management of process and capital projects within our manufacturing plant. This role involves planning, executing, and delivering manufacturing improvements, equipment upgrades, plant expansions, and cost-saving initiatives while ensuring safety, quality, and production goals are met. 

Key Responsibilities 

1. Project Planning and Coordination: 

• Lead and manage manufacturing projects from concept to completion, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and budget. 
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Procurement, Engineering) to define project objectives, deliverables, and milestones. 
• Develop detailed project schedules and adjust plans as necessary to meet evolving project demands. 

2. Technical Design and Implementation: 

• Supervise the design, selection, and installation of new equipment and systems to improve manufacturing processes and efficiency. 
• Perform feasibility studies, risk assessments, and equipment evaluations to meet safety and operational requirements. 
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety protocols, and environmental guidelines. 

3. Cost Control and Budget Management: 

• Create and manage project budgets, monitor expenditures, and implement cost-effective solutions. 
• Identify opportunities for cost reduction while maintaining quality and safety standards. 

4. Process Improvement: 

• Evaluate and optimize manufacturing processes to increase efficiency, throughput, and waste reduction. 
• Implement Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies to enhance operations. 

5. Quality and Compliance: 

• Work closely with the Quality Assurance team to ensure projects meet internal and external quality standards. 
• Adhere to OSHA, FDA, environmental, and company-specific regulatory requirements. 

6. Documentation and Reporting: 

• Prepare and maintain comprehensive project documentation, including design specs, progress reports, and as-built records. 
• Communicate project updates, challenges, and resolutions to stakeholders and senior management. 

7. Training and Support: 

• Provide training to plant personnel on new systems, processes, and equipment. 
• Support troubleshooting efforts during implementation and post-installation phases. 

Qualifications 

Education: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field. 

Experience: 

• 2–5 years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial setting, with a proven track record of managing technical projects. 

Skills and Competencies: 

• Proficiency in project management tools such as MS Project, AutoCAD, or similar software. 
• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, industrial equipment, and automation systems. 
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other process improvement tools. 
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and technical troubleshooting abilities. 
• Excellent communication skills for interacting with internal teams, vendors, and external stakeholders. 
• Adaptability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. 

Certifications: 

• PMP (Project Management Professional), Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, or related certifications are highly desirable. 

Physical and Work Environment Requirements: 

• Ability to work in a manufacturing plant, including standing, walking, climbing, and lifting as required. 
• Occasional exposure to loud noises, elevated temperatures, and industrial equipment. 
• Flexibility to work beyond standard hours or on weekends as project timelines dictate. 

Additional Requirements: 

• Knowledge of food or pet food manufacturing processes is a plus. 
• Working knowledge of Wonderware (AVEVA) or similar HMI/SCADA systems is a plus.
• Familiarity with regulatory standards specific to food safety (e.g., FDA, HACCP) is preferred. 
• A hands-on approach to project execution and the ability to thrive in a collaborative team environment. 

Join United Petfood Producers USA and become a vital part of a dynamic team driving innovation and excellence in pet food manufacturing. Apply today to help us deliver high-quality products through engineering expertise and project leadership! 

Equal Opportunity Employer: United Petfood Producers USA Inc. is an equal opportunity workplace. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.