Project Engineer in McAdoo, Pennsylvania at Little Leaf Farms LLC

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Project Engineer is responsible for leading and supporting capital projects, facility improvements, equipment installations, and continuous improvement initiatives across greenhouse, packhouse, and facility operations. This role partners closely with Maintenance, Facilities, Operations, Food Safety, and external vendors to ensure projects are completed safely, on time, within budget, and aligned with operational goals.

The Project Engineer will support all phases of project execution including planning, design review, vendor coordination, procurement support, installation oversight, startup, troubleshooting, and documentation. This role is expected to drive reliability, efficiency, standardization, and long-term operational improvements throughout the site.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead and coordinate capital improvement projects from concept through implementation
• Support equipment installations, facility expansions, utility upgrades, and process improvements
• Work closely with Operations, Maintenance, Facilities, and outside contractors to ensure successful project execution.
• Develop project scopes, timelines, budgets, and resource plans.
• Assist in obtaining quotes, evaluating vendors, and supporting procurement activities.
• Track project progress and communicate status updates to leadership.
• Support commissioning and startup activities for new equipment and systems.
• Identify opportunities to improve reliability, efficiency, safety, and operational performance.
• Assist with layout development, process flow improvements, and equipment optimization.
• Ensure projects comply with safety standards, GMPs, food safety requirements, and company policies.
• Coordinate contractors and ensure work is completed safely and according to specifications.
• Maintain accurate project documentation including drawings, manuals, change records, and technical files.
• Maintain a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner that supports teamwork and collaboration with co-workers, leadership, vendors, and contractors.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.

REQUIRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical field preferred.
• Strong understanding of industrial systems including mechanical, electrical, utilities, and automation systems.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, P&IDs, and technical documentation.
• Experience with project planning, budgeting, and scheduling.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• AutoCAD or similar drafting/software experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and project tracking tools.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating across departments.

PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS:

• Experience in food manufacturing, agriculture, greenhouse operations, packaging, or automated manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with PLC-controlled equipment and industrial automation systems.
• Experience supporting HVAC, refrigeration, water systems, conveyors, packaging equipment, or facility infrastructure projects.
• Hands-on technical troubleshooting experience strongly preferred.