Project Manager

Job Description

Job Description

MODERN PROCESS EQUIPMENT

Chicago-Based Manufacturing Leader | Since 1959

Project Manager

Systems Division · Process & Mechanical Design · SolidWorks · On-Site Field Supervision

WHO WE ARE

Modern Process Equipment (MPE) is a family-owned engineering and manufacturing powerhouse that has been shaping the coffee and food processing industry for over 65 years. Over 90% of coffee processed in North America runs through our grinders, and we design and build the equipment that helps global brands like Starbucks, Nestlé, Purina, and Hershey's bring their products to market. Our reach also extends into pet food, craft breweries, dried nuts, cereal, and chemical processing.

All of our products are designed and manufactured at our facility in Chicago. We combine small-company culture with big-company impact. Innovation isn't just encouraged here - it's expected. And when we win, we celebrate together.

THE OPPORTUNITY

MPE is looking for a driven Project Manager to join our fast-growing Systems Division. The Systems Division delivers complete processing plant solutions - encompassing MPE's grinding and conveying equipment, outsourced equipment fabricated to our specifications, and controls that automate the process and integrate with the customer's control system.

You'll lead the full lifecycle of complex projects - from process and mechanical design through fabrication, installation, and commissioning - serving as the key connector between our engineering team, shop floor, vendors, and client sites around the world.

This is not a desk-only role. You'll roll up your sleeves in SolidWorks, develop P&IDs and process flow drawings, collaborate directly with machinists and fabricators, and be on-site when it matters most - ensuring MPE's precision standards are upheld in the field.

WHAT YOU'LL OWN

Project Leadership

• Own projects end-to-end: scope, timeline, budget, and quality - from kickoff through field acceptance
• Coordinate cross-functional teams including design engineers, procurement, fabrication, vendors, outside engineering, and field technicians
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the project lifecycle
• Host design reviews with customers, contractors, vendors, and the internal design team
• Develop and maintain expedited project schedules
• Identify and proactively manage project risks, schedule conflicts, and scope changes

Process & Mechanical Design

• Develop and specify process equipment designs to achieve process objectives for complete processing plants
• Create process flow diagrams and P&ID drawings
• Calculate process rates and mass flow balance simulations
• Create 3D SolidWorks models of systems and prepare approval, fabrication, and installation drawing packages
• Specify mechanical equipment and instrumentation
• Work directly with in-house and external fabrication facilities to ensure designs are manufacturable, serviceable, and meet client specifications

Field Supervision & Travel

• Travel to customer facilities (domestic and international) for equipment installation and commissioning
• Supervise mechanical installation crews to ensure work meets MPE engineering standards and safety protocols
• Conduct site readiness assessments and pre-installation surveys
• Validate process design and equipment function during startup
• Provide hands-on troubleshooting and technical support during startup and validation phases
• Document site activities, punch lists, and commissioning reports with precision

WHAT YOU BRING

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent technical experience)
• 3+ years of project design and management experience, ideally in a process or manufacturing environment
• Demonstrated hands-on experience with SolidWorks for 3D part and assembly design
• Prior field experience with mechanical system installation or commissioning strongly preferred

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in SolidWorks
• Working knowledge of GD&T, fabrication processes (welding, machining, sheet metal), and materials
• Familiarity with P&ID drawings, process controls, and dry material handling / material transport methods
• Familiarity with rotating equipment, conveyance systems, or food-grade/industrial machinery a strong advantage
• Comfort with project management tools (MS Project, Smartsheet, or similar) and MS Office

Soft Skills & Attributes

• Strong communicator - equally effective on the shop floor and in a client boardroom
• Able to work independently and take initiative with limited direction
• Detail-oriented with a bias for action; you close loops and don't let things fall through the cracks
• Skilled at conflict resolution and handling difficult circumstances with demanding clients
• Quick to analyze complex technical situations and think outside the box to develop solutions
• Able to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced, multi-stakeholder environment
• Embodies MPE's core values: Results Oriented, Teamwork, and Accountability
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 25-35% as project needs dictate

WHY MPE

We have the clients, the product, and the reputation - built over six decades of engineering excellence. What you'll find here is rare: a place where a Project Manager can genuinely shape how a product goes from sketch to the factory floors of the world's most recognizable brands.

• Work on complex, custom-engineered systems - no two projects the same
• Exposure to large-scale projects, international customers, and a wide variety of manufacturing processes (fabrication, machining, and assembly)
• Small-company agility with enterprise-level customers and global impact
• Competitive compensation package including bonus program
• Major medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and profit sharing
• Training and support in developing your understanding of our business and industry
• A culture that values craftsmanship, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Direct access to leadership - your ideas reach decision-makers

Ready to build something that matters?

Apply today and bring your engineering instincts and field grit to a team that's been doing this for over 65 years.