Project Engineer at Ensign-Bickford Industries

This opportunity is located within our AFB International business, the global science and technology leader in pet food palatability. We develop and produce a full range of liquid and dry palatability enhancers using high-quality ingredients proven to optimize companion animal response and consumption.

Job Description

Job Description

Summary The Project Engineer is responsible for designing and implementing capital projects that ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations. This role executes capital projects across the facility, providing technical expertise and hands-on leadership to support continuous improvement, equipment reliability, and plant performance. The Project Engineer works both independently and collaboratively with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering under the direction of the Plant Engineering Manager.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Lead capital projects from concept through commissioning, including scope development, budgeting, design, procurement, contract negotiations construction, start-up, and closeout.
• Manage all project activities to ensure deliverables are completed safely, on time, and within budget.
• Provide technical support for equipment reliability, process optimization, and production troubleshooting.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement process improvements that enhance productivity, safety, and product quality.
• Evaluate and introduce new technologies that drive performance, efficiency, and cost savings.
• Support long-term capital planning through analysis of plant needs, resource requirements, and technology trends.
• Ensure compliance with all corporate engineering standards, policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Promote and uphold a strong safety culture through active engagement and adherence to all EHS procedures.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong proficiency in project management, including budgeting, scheduling, and vendor coordination.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, and electrical schematics.
• Working knowledge of PLC systems and industrial automation (programming experience a plus).
• Proficiency in AutoCAD or similar design software for equipment layouts and installation drawings.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively collaborate with internal teams, management, and external partners.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and utilize electronic systems for data collection and documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to identify problems, collect and analyze data, and develop practical, effective solutions.
• Knowledge of industrial safety standards and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with food manufacturing equipment such as tanks, pumps, grinders, spray dryers, blenders, and packaging systems preferred.
• Experience with HACCP, cGMP, and food safety programs is highly beneficial

Supervisory Responsibilities

• This position does not include direct reports but will provide project leadership and oversight to contractors and vendors as required.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Chemical, or Electrical Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution.
• Minimum 3-5 years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in the food, chemical, or process industries.

Physical and Work Environment

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to moving mechanical equipment and moderate noise.
• Must be able to sit, stand, walk, and occasionally lift or move up to 25 pounds.
• Must be available for off-hour or on-call support as required to ensure plant operations continuity.

AFB International is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.