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Project Engineer

Lead capital projects end‑to‑end—from conceptual design through start‑up—at a fast‑moving manufacturing site. If you’re a builder of systems who loves turning design into operations, this role gives you the ownership, visibility, and hands‑on impact to deliver real outcomes across mechanical, electrical, and controls.

What you’ll do

+ Own capital projects from scoping and estimating through commissioning and plant acceptance—on time and on budget.

+ Coordinate MEP construction and cross‑functional teams (OEM technicians, contractors of all trades, plant personnel).

+ Design/spec equipment & panels (OEM equipment, automation panels, hardware) and manage P&ID reviews.

+ Lead installation & I/O checkout, start‑up, and acceptance testing; drive field execution with clear timelines.

+ Develop and maintain schedules & cost controls: WBS, scheduling reports, cost/cash‑flow forecasts, change orders.

+ Guide controls & automation: direction/support for PLC ladder logic and HMI applications; collaborate with corporate controls/automation on network integration and controls work.

+ Mentor and elevate engineers, maintenance, and operations with practical technical leadership.

What you’ll bring

+ 5+ years managing projects (construction management / mechanical engineering experience).

+ Strong project coordination and vendor/contractor direction in plant construction environments.

+ Rockwell commissioning and ladder logic proficiency; experience with Siemens PLCs.

+ Clear, professional communication—written and verbal—with a polished, on‑site presence.

Nice to have

+ Bachelor’s in Engineering (or equivalent experience).

+ Start‑up/installation of process and/or packaging equipment.

+ AutoCAD familiarity; strong Word/Excel/MS Project skills.

+ Experience with Wonderware, Archestra System Platform, and/or MES.

+ Background leading large capital initiatives.

Why you’ll love it

+ Scope & autonomy: You’ll be the point person from concept to commissioning.

+ Modern tech stack: Rockwell + Siemens, enterprise controls, real production impact.

+ Cross‑site exposure: Collaborate with OEMs and multiple facilities; mentor teams; build repeatable playbooks.

Work environment & travel

+ On‑site | Ames, IA (business casual).

+ Travel: ~50% in the first year to Dallas and Cleveland for cross‑site learning—all travel expenses covered.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Des Moines, IA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $150000.00 - $200000.00/yr.

A no-deductible, $0 premium option for employee-only health coverage. 401(k) with 50% company match on first 8% of earnings you contribute. Safe harbor and profit-sharing company contributions to 401(k). Company paid short- and long-term disability coverage. Company paid 2X annual salary life and AD&D insurance. 4 weeks annual paid time off. Extra time off for volunteering. Tuition reimbursement. Fitness membership reimbursement

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Des Moines,IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Dec 24, 2025.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.