Sterling Engineering
Project Engineer – Food Manufacturing (CapEx / Production Expansion)
Location:
Bartlett, IL
Compensation:
$85,000–$115,000 (DOE)
Start Date:
Early 2026
Industry:
Food Co-Packing / Co-Manufacturing
Our client, a fast‑growing food co‑packer transitioning into full co‑manufacturing, is expanding its production capabilities and adding a Project Engineer to support existing projects as well as a major upcoming production line expansion. If you thrive in fast‑moving environments, enjoy being hands‑on, and want to grow inside an organization that rewards initiative, this is a strong career opportunity.
What You’ll Do
Lead project development activities including concepts, design layouts, cost estimates, equipment research, timelines, and contingency planning.
Manage CapEx projects end‑to‑end—defining scope, budgets, schedules, and validating user requirements.
Create and update detailed project schedules and facility layouts using AutoCAD or similar 2D CAD tools.
Coordinate bidding processes, evaluate vendors, and manage contracts and requisitions.
Oversee vendor and contractor performance to ensure safety, reliability, and adherence to schedules.
Participate in FATs, equipment validations, and on‑site technical inspections.
Direct equipment installation, commissioning, and startup activities; ensure smooth handoff to Production and Maintenance.
Maintain facility‑wide AutoCAD layouts and plant utility capacity data.
Partner with the Safety Manager to ensure equipment and process compliance with safety standards.
Who You Are
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field.
2–5 years of experience leading CapEx or project engineering initiatives.
Strong proficiency in AutoCAD or similar 2D CAD systems.
Background in manufacturing required; food or contract manufacturing experience is a strong plus.
Knowledge of plant operations, processing systems, or packaging equipment.
A creative thinker who enjoys solving problems, improving processes, and working outside the box.
Working Conditions
Split between office and plant‑floor environments (approx. 55–80°F).
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
Company is growing and expanding into co‑manufacturing—new projects and technologies are constantly coming.
Engineering team is currently top‑heavy, which means ton of room for upward growth for someone early‑career.
Highly collaborative culture where ideas are welcomed and implemented quickly.
Seniority Level:
Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type:
Full‑time
Job Function:
Engineering and Project Management
Industries:
Engineering Services and Food and Beverage Manufacturing
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Sterling Engineering by 2x.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Bartlett, IL
Compensation:
$85,000–$115,000 (DOE)
Start Date:
Early 2026
Industry:
Food Co-Packing / Co-Manufacturing
Our client, a fast‑growing food co‑packer transitioning into full co‑manufacturing, is expanding its production capabilities and adding a Project Engineer to support existing projects as well as a major upcoming production line expansion. If you thrive in fast‑moving environments, enjoy being hands‑on, and want to grow inside an organization that rewards initiative, this is a strong career opportunity.
What You’ll Do
Lead project development activities including concepts, design layouts, cost estimates, equipment research, timelines, and contingency planning.
Manage CapEx projects end‑to‑end—defining scope, budgets, schedules, and validating user requirements.
Create and update detailed project schedules and facility layouts using AutoCAD or similar 2D CAD tools.
Coordinate bidding processes, evaluate vendors, and manage contracts and requisitions.
Oversee vendor and contractor performance to ensure safety, reliability, and adherence to schedules.
Participate in FATs, equipment validations, and on‑site technical inspections.
Direct equipment installation, commissioning, and startup activities; ensure smooth handoff to Production and Maintenance.
Maintain facility‑wide AutoCAD layouts and plant utility capacity data.
Partner with the Safety Manager to ensure equipment and process compliance with safety standards.
Who You Are
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field.
2–5 years of experience leading CapEx or project engineering initiatives.
Strong proficiency in AutoCAD or similar 2D CAD systems.
Background in manufacturing required; food or contract manufacturing experience is a strong plus.
Knowledge of plant operations, processing systems, or packaging equipment.
A creative thinker who enjoys solving problems, improving processes, and working outside the box.
Working Conditions
Split between office and plant‑floor environments (approx. 55–80°F).
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
Company is growing and expanding into co‑manufacturing—new projects and technologies are constantly coming.
Engineering team is currently top‑heavy, which means ton of room for upward growth for someone early‑career.
Highly collaborative culture where ideas are welcomed and implemented quickly.
Seniority Level:
Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type:
Full‑time
Job Function:
Engineering and Project Management
Industries:
Engineering Services and Food and Beverage Manufacturing
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Sterling Engineering by 2x.
#J-18808-Ljbffr