Manufacturing Project Engineer

Job ID: Ca116151729Location: Buffalo Grove, ILJob Type: PermanentPay: $98000 - $127000Posted: 2026-10-06We are seeking a Manufacturing Project Engineer to identify, evaluate, and lead capital improvement projects within a manufacturing environment. This role will work closely with operations and engineering leadership to identify opportunities for new equipment, automation, process improvements, and other CAPEX investments.Salary: $98,000–$125,000Location: Buffalo Grove, IL 60089Hire Type: Direct HireBenefits: A comprehensive benefits package is offered, including medical, dental, vision, paid time off, paid holidays, a 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, and additional employee perks.Key Responsibilities:Identify and develop CAPEX projects that improve safety, quality, productivity, capacity, reliability, and manufacturing costs.Research manufacturing equipment, technologies, automation solutions, and process improvements.Develop technical recommendations and business justification for proposed capital investments.Present project findings, recommendations, costs, and expected benefits to engineering and operations leadership.Lead approved manufacturing projects from concept and equipment selection through installation, validation, and production launch.Develop project scopes, requirements, timelines, budgets, and technical specifications.Coordinate with equipment suppliers, integrators, contractors, manufacturing teams, and other internal stakeholders.Evaluate existing manufacturing processes and identify opportunities for equipment and process improvements.Support automation, CNC machining, robotics, fixtures, and other manufacturing equipment projects.Troubleshoot manufacturing and equipment issues during implementation and new product launches.Improve cycle times, equipment reliability, uptime, and overall manufacturing efficiency.Support continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations.Train and support production and maintenance teams following implementation of new equipment or processes.Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related field.5+ years of Manufacturing Engineering, Project Engineering, or related experience within a manufacturing environment.Experience identifying and leading capital equipment or CAPEX projects.Ability to research and evaluate manufacturing technologies and equipment and develop recommendations for leadership.Experience managing engineering projects from concept through implementation and production.Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and production equipment.Experience with automation, robotics, CNC machining, PLCs, or related manufacturing technologies is highly preferred.Experience working with equipment vendors and system integrators is preferred.Creo and/or SolidWorks experience is a plus.Strong project management, troubleshooting, problem-solving, and communication skills.Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.