Project Manager Jobs 2026 (Now Hiring) – Smart Auto Apply

MODERN PROCESS EQUIPMENTChicago-Based Manufacturing Leader | Since 1959Project ManagerSystems Division · Process & Mechanical Design · SolidWorks · On-Site Field SupervisionWHO WE AREModern Process Equipment (MPE) is a family-owned engineering and manufacturing powerhouse that has been shaping the coffee and food processing industry for over 65 years. Over 90% of coffee processed in North America runs through our grinders, and we design and build the equipment that helps global brands like Starbucks, Nestlé, Purina, and Hershey's bring their products to market. Our reach also extends into pet food, craft breweries, dried nuts, cereal, and chemical processing.All of our products are designed and manufactured at our facility in Chicago. We combine small-company culture with big-company impact. Innovation isn't just encouraged here - it's expected. And when we win, we celebrate together.THE OPPORTUNITYMPE is looking for a driven Project Manager to join our fast-growing Systems Division. The Systems Division delivers complete processing plant solutions - encompassing MPE's grinding and conveying equipment, outsourced equipment fabricated to our specifications, and controls that automate the process and integrate with the customer's control system.You'll lead the full lifecycle of complex projects - from process and mechanical design through fabrication, installation, and commissioning - serving as the key connector between our engineering team, shop floor, vendors, and client sites around the world.This is not a desk-only role. You'll roll up your sleeves in SolidWorks, develop P&IDs and process flow drawings, collaborate directly with machinists and fabricators, and be on-site when it matters most - ensuring MPE's precision standards are upheld in the field.WHAT YOU'LL OWNProject LeadershipOwn projects end-to-end: scope, timeline, budget, and quality - from kickoff through field acceptance

Coordinate cross-functional teams including design engineers, procurement, fabrication, vendors, outside engineering, and field technicians

Serve as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the project lifecycle

Host design reviews with customers, contractors, vendors, and the internal design team

Develop and maintain expedited project schedules

Identify and proactively manage project risks, schedule conflicts, and scope changes

Process & Mechanical DesignDevelop and specify process equipment designs to achieve process objectives for complete processing plants

Create process flow diagrams and P&ID drawings

Calculate process rates and mass flow balance simulations

Create 3D SolidWorks models of systems and prepare approval, fabrication, and installation drawing packages

Specify mechanical equipment and instrumentation

Work directly with in-house and external fabrication facilities to ensure designs are manufacturable, serviceable, and meet client specifications

Field Supervision & TravelTravel to customer facilities (domestic and international) for equipment installation and commissioning

Supervise mechanical installation crews to ensure work meets MPE engineering standards and safety protocols

Conduct site readiness assessments and pre-installation surveys

Validate process design and equipment function during startup

Provide hands-on troubleshooting and technical support during startup and validation phases

Document site activities, punch lists, and commissioning reports with precisionWHAT YOU BRINGEducation & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent technical experience)3+ years of project design and management experience, ideally in a process or manufacturing environment

Demonstrated hands-on experience with SolidWorks for 3D part and assembly design

Prior field experience with mechanical system installation or commissioning strongly preferred

Technical SkillsProficiency in SolidWorksWorking knowledge of GD&T, fabrication processes (welding, machining, sheet metal), and materials

Familiarity with P&ID drawings, process controls, and dry material handling / material transport methods

Familiarity with rotating equipment, conveyance systems, or food-grade/industrial machinery a strong advantage

Comfort with project management tools (MS Project, Smartsheet, or similar) and MS OfficeSoft Skills & AttributesStrong communicator - equally effective on the shop floor and in a client boardroom

Able to work independently and take initiative with limited direction

Detail-oriented with a bias for action; you close loops and don't let things fall through the cracks

Skilled at conflict resolution and handling difficult circumstances with demanding clients

Quick to analyze complex technical situations and think outside the box to develop solutions

Able to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced, multi-stakeholder environment

Embodies MPE's core values: Results Oriented, Teamwork, and AccountabilityWillingness and ability to travel up to 25-35% as project needs dictateWHY MPEWe have the clients, the product, and the reputation - built over six decades of engineering excellence. What you'll find here is rare: a place where a Project Manager can genuinely shape how a product goes from sketch to the factory floors of the world's most recognizable brands.Work on complex, custom-engineered systems - no two projects the same

Exposure to large-scale projects, international customers, and a wide variety of manufacturing processes (fabrication, machining, and assembly)Small-company agility with enterprise-level customers and global impact

Competitive compensation package including bonus program

Major medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and profit sharing

Training and support in developing your understanding of our business and industryA culture that values craftsmanship, accountability, and continuous improvement

Direct access to leadership - your ideas reach decision-makersReady to build something that matters?Apply today and bring your engineering instincts and field grit to a team that's been doing this for over 65 years.