Project Engineer Mgr

(Relocation to Illinois Required)

If you enjoy taking ownership of products, improving how things are built, and seeing your work move from concept to production, this is a role where you can make a measurable impact.

We are seeking a driven, hands-on Product Engineer who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and wants real influence over product performance, process design, and continuous improvement initiatives. This position requires relocation to Illinois . U.S. work authorization is required; sponsorship is not available.

Why This Role Stands Out

Full product lifecycle ownership - from concept and prototyping through production and continuous improvement

High visibility with operations and leadership

Opportunity to lead manufacturing improvements that directly impact cost, quality, and efficiency

Autonomy to solve problems and implement practical, well-thought-out solutions

Collaborative environment with strong cross-functional exposure

What You'll Do

Develop and optimize manufacturing processes to improve quality, safety, and cost

Lead root-cause investigations and drive sustainable corrective actions

Support new product launches, including PPAP coordination

Design and improve tooling, fixtures, and production equipment

Create and update SOPs and visual work instructions

Train production teams on new processes and improvements

Apply Lean and Six Sigma principles to eliminate waste and improve flow

Manage projects from planning through execution

Maintain BOMs, routings, and ERP data

What We're Looking For

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

4+ years of experience in Product, Manufacturing, or Process Engineering

Strong mechanical aptitude with hands-on problem-solving ability

Experience driving Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma initiatives

Proven ability to work independently and influence cross-functional teams

Clear communicator who can move projects forward

Nice to Have: Experience with electronics or programming.

Benefits

401(k)

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Life insurance

apply direct:

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.

GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.