Project Engineer II

Project Engineer II 
Location: Richmond, VA
Job Type: Direct Hire
Starting Salary: $95,000/year (higher based on experience)

About the Role

The Project Engineer II will manage small- to large-scale packaging engineering projects within a cGMP and FDA-regulated manufacturing environment. This role focuses on packaging equipment design, selection, installation, and optimization. You will independently initiate, plan, and execute projects while contributing to more complex initiatives and collaborating cross-functionally to ensure equipment meets production, quality, cost, and compliance objectives.

Technical & Project Execution

Provide engineering support for packaging equipment projects for new and existing products

Design and develop packaging equipment lines and support systems integration

Lead or support installation, commissioning, and verification of equipment

Develop and execute equipment testing and qualification protocols

Assist with vendor testing, factory acceptance testing (FAT), and site acceptance testing (SAT)

Project Management

Initiate, plan, and manage multiple projects simultaneously, including scope, schedule, and budget

Perform cost estimation and track project expenses

Support capital project planning, budgeting, and long-range planning initiatives

Conduct project status updates and present progress to stakeholders

Review and approve contractor bids, RFIs, and change requests

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Work with Operations, Quality, Regulatory Affairs, Engineering, Purchasing, and vendors to resolve challenges

Coordinate multi-disciplinary teams to ensure successful project execution

Ensure alignment with site standards, best practices, and regulatory requirements

Compliance & Continuous Improvement

Ensure all activities comply with FDA cGMP and company policies

Support change control processes for new equipment and process changes

Manage or support equipment validation

Identify opportunities for process improvements and standardization

Promote and exemplify cGMP compliance in all activities

Documentation & Training

Prepare and maintain project documentation including SOPs, job aids, and technical reports

Maintain accurate project records and history files

Train production staff on new equipment and processes

Serve as a technical resource and mentor to junior team members

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

5+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment (pharmaceutical, personal care, or similar preferred)

Experience with equipment design, installation, commissioning, and validation in a cGMP environment

Skills & Abilities

Strong project management and organizational skills

Ability to manage multiple projects independently

Analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills

Effective communication and technical writing abilities

Working knowledge of FDA cGMP requirements

Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, process flow diagrams, and technical drawings

Experience with CAD or similar design software preferred

Ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence stakeholders

What We Offer

Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, Short and Long-Term Disability, Life and AD&D, 401(k), and more.