Engineering Project Manager

Position Summary

The Project Engineering Manager (PME) will play a critical role in the startup of the Opta Glass division, a new operation dedicated to processing post-consumer glass into value-added products for use as supplementary cementitious materials in concrete and other applications. This role requires an experienced engineering professional who can rapidly get up to speed with the facility, map process flows, and assist in troubleshooting as we commission equipment.

The PME will oversee project execution, including planning, budgeting, scheduling, and delivering technical and engineering solutions that align with operational objectives. They will be responsible for ensuring smooth startup, process optimization, and long-term operational efficiency within the new facility.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management & Commissioning Support

• Quickly develop a deep understanding of the Opta Glass operation and material process flows.
• Assist in troubleshooting and resolving technical and engineering issues during equipment commissioning, and ongoing refinement of operations to ensure the facility reaches its targeted production capacity.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure smooth facility startup and successful production ramp-up.
• Develop and implement detailed project execution plans, ensuring milestones are met within budget and schedule.
• Monitor project progress, including financial budgets, identifying risks and implementing mitigation strategies.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to track startup progress and long-term operational success.

Engineering & Process Optimization

• Oversee the technical aspects of the operation, ensuring compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and quality control.
• Develop process flow diagrams, technical drawings, and engineering documentation to support facility operations.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and operational efficiencies.
• Implement best practices in Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Work closely with the General Manager, contractors, vendors, operations and technical teams to align engineering solutions with business goals.
• Lead problem-solving efforts, providing technical guidance and innovative solutions.
• Train and mentor team members on engineering best practices, process flow, and troubleshooting methodologies.
• Act as a liaison between R&D, operations, and leadership teams, ensuring alignment on business priorities.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure adherence to environmental, health, and safety (EHS) regulations and company policies.
• Collaborate with regulatory bodies and quality assurance teams to maintain compliance with industry standards.
• Drive a culture of safety and operational excellence within the new facility.

Qualifications & Experience

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Chemical, or Civil Engineering (Master’s degree preferred).
• 8+ years of experience in engineering, process improvement, or project management roles in manufacturing or industrial operations.
• Experience with commissioning new equipment and troubleshooting startup issues in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven ability to lead engineering projects from concept to execution.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of project management methodologies (Agile, PMI, Six Sigma, etc.).
• Proficiency in engineering and simulation software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, MATLAB, etc.).
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills to troubleshoot and optimize plant processes.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams in a high-paced startup environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Certifications (Preferred but Not Required)

• Project Management Professional (PMP) or equivalent.
• Six Sigma Black Belt or Lean Manufacturing Certification.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to access and navigate the production facility.
• Ability to work in an industrial setting with exposure to noise, dust, and moving machinery.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.