Project Engineering Manager
Job Description
- We are seeking an experienced Project Engineering Manager to lead complex technical projects within the pork and packaged meat industry. In this role, you will oversee the full lifecycle of engineering initiatives—from concept and design through implementation—while leading a talented team of engineers both directly and indirectly. You will leverage your expertise to identify potential risks, optimize processes, and ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget.
This is an opportunity to drive innovation and make a significant impact at one of the nation’s leading consumer packaged goods companies.
- Project Design & Planning: Develop engineering designs, material specifications, cost estimates, and feasibility studies. Validate fieldwork, create as-built documentation, and ensure compliance with industry standards and codes.
- Implementation & Execution: Coordinate with vendors, contractors, and plant personnel to execute projects. Review consultant and contractor work, maintain project documentation, and ensure utility and layout requirements are met.
- Project Management & Reporting: Define project scope, review proposals, manage contracts, and oversee schedules and budgets. Provide regular updates to management on project status.
- Leadership & Team Development: Mentor and develop engineering staff, foster a positive and collaborative work environment, and drive employee engagement through coaching and guidance.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field and 5+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
- Minimum of 2 years in a leadership role managing engineers or technical teams.
- Strong foundation in engineering principles, project management, and contract administration.
- Knowledge of construction and installation scheduling, national codes, and standards.
- Proficiency in AutoCAD and Microsoft Office.
- Excellent written and verbal communication, analytical reasoning, and organizational skills.
- Willingness to travel up to 50% of the time.
Meet Your Recruiter
Alicia Alexander
Technical Recruiter & Team Mentor
Alicia Alexander is a Technical Recruiter and Team Mentor at Sterling Engineering with four years of recruiting experience and nearly three years with Sterling. She specializes in engineering, manufacturing, and technical recruiting, supporting roles across maintenance, reliability, operations, engineering, and industrial environments, including food and life sciences.
Alicia is passionate about helping people find careers where they feel genuinely happy, supported, and positioned for long-term growth. She enjoys building meaningful relationships with candidates, helping them take the next step in their careers, and supporting companies as they build strong, high-performing teams.
With a background in psychology and human resources from North Central College, Alicia brings a people-focused approach to recruiting. Her understanding of relationship building, communication, and candidate motivation helps her create successful matches between talent and opportunity.
Alicia is known for developing strong partnerships with both candidates and hiring managers, with a focus on creating long-term placements that benefit both the individual and the organization.