Engineering Project Manager- (Quality))
The Engineering Project Manager at Confidential Client leads advanced engineering projects focused on innovation and capability building within manufacturing and technical centers. This role requires strong technical expertise in automation, mechanical design, robotics, and process optimization, combined with leadership to drive impactful projects and mentor teams. The position emphasizes delivering cutting-edge engineering solutions that maintain Confidential Client's leadership in consumer goods production.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Engineering Project Manager North Chicago, IL — As an Engineering Project Manager (Quality) with our Confidential Client in Engineering, you will lead technical and quality-focused engineering projects across controls & automation, packaging, robotics, metrology and mechanical systems. This is an entry-level / early-career, full-time role (0–5 years of relevant experience including internships/co-ops).
- Lead and deliver end-to-end engineering projects from concept through commissioning and handover, taking full ownership for scope, schedule, cost and technical quality.
- Drive design, integration and validation of control systems (PLCs), robotics, machine vision and industrial automation solutions.
- Coordinate mechanical design, prototyping and packaging materials/process validation to meet production and quality targets.
- Define and manage technical specifications, supplier qualifications and test protocols for production equipment and instrumentation.
- Use data and analytics to optimize control strategies, improve reliability and reduce variation.
- Partner with HS&E and Quality teams to ensure compliant, safe and efficient operations.
- Mentor and collaborate with cross-functional teams and receive coaching from senior engineering leaders.
Responsibilities
- Manage project plans, schedules, budgets and risk mitigation for engineering and quality initiatives.
- Lead requirements gathering, technical specifications, validation plans and root-cause investigations.
- Implement industrial controls and automation solutions (Rockwell PLCs, sensors, motors, networks).
- Integrate robotics and machine vision for production tasks; collaborate with supplier/contract engineering resources.
- Apply mechanical systems engineering (3D CAD/CAE, machine design, mechatronics) to prototype and production equipment.
- Ensure packaging material/process validation and supplier readiness for line integration.
- Promote continuous improvement using data-driven approaches and maintain documentation for audits and handovers.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related discipline (Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, Chemical, Materials Science, Packaging Science, Environmental, Civil or similar).
- 0–5 years relevant experience (including internships, co-ops or research experience).
- Demonstrated technical curiosity and analytical problem-solving ability.
- Project mindset with capability to manage timelines, budgets and stakeholder communication.
- Willingness to relocate during your career as business needs require; relocation support may be available to those who qualify.
- Ability to travel approximately 10–25% as business needs dictate.
- Note: Immigration sponsorship is not available for this role.
Preferred / Technical Skills
- Experience or coursework with industrial PLCs (Rockwell) and process/machine control.
- Familiarity with robotics, machine vision and industrial automation.
- Programming experience (Python, LabVIEW, Java, C#) or demonstrable automation scripting ability.
- Mechanical systems engineering experience: 3D CAD, CAE, machine design and mechatronics.
- Expertise or coursework in packaging materials/processes and/or precision instrumentation/metrology.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills; ability to work in cross-functional, matrixed environments.
Compensation & Benefits
- Estimated annual pay (source data): $112,648 per year — actual compensation will vary by location, experience, role level and other non-discriminatory factors.
- Total rewards typically include base salary, bonus (if applicable) and benefits. Specific benefit details will be provided by the Confidential Client during the hiring process.
Why Apply
- Immediate ownership of meaningful engineering projects from Day 1.
- Exposure to advanced manufacturing technologies (Industry 4.0, robotics, controls, metrology).
- Formal training and mentorship from experienced engineering leaders to accelerate technical and leadership growth.
- Work for a Confidential Client operating in the Engineering industry with broad career development and relocation opportunities.
Location & Legal Notes
- Job location: North Chicago, IL (on-site / at a technical center or manufacturing site).
- This role is a full-time, entry-level position.
- Immigration sponsorship is not available for this role.
- Relocation support may be available to qualified candidates.
- Careertakes supports a fair hiring process and applicants may receive additional matched opportunities through our platform.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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