JRG Partners, a premier executive search and recruitment firm, is seeking a visionary and results-driven Director of Project Engineering to join our client’s dynamic and growing team. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned engineering leader to shape the future of critical infrastructure and complex technical projects, driving innovation and excellence at every turn. Our client is a leader in advanced manufacturing solutions, renowned for their commitment to cutting-edge solutions and impactful contributions to global challenges.
Role Overview for Director of Project Engineering
As the Director of Project Engineering, you will be the strategic linchpin connecting high-level organizational objectives with the meticulous execution of engineering projects. This pivotal leadership role demands a blend of deep technical expertise, exceptional project management acumen, and a proven ability to inspire and guide multidisciplinary engineering teams.
You will be instrumental in defining project scopes, establishing rigorous engineering standards, optimizing workflows, and ensuring the successful delivery of complex projects from conception through completion. Your influence will extend across various departments, fostering collaboration, mitigating risks, and championing a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence.
This role is not just about managing projects; it’s about leading a transformation, setting new benchmarks for quality, efficiency, and innovation within the engineering landscape. You will be empowered to make strategic decisions that impact the entire project lifecycle, ensuring alignment with business goals and delivering value to stakeholders. The Director will report directly to senior leadership, playing a critical role in strategic planning and the long-term vision of the engineering department.
This is a role for a leader who thrives on challenges, embraces innovation, and is dedicated to fostering an environment where engineering excellence flourishes. You will leverage your extensive experience to foresee potential obstacles, develop proactive strategies, and ensure all projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards, ultimately contributing significantly to the client’s market leadership and strategic objectives.
Key Responsibilities of Director of Project Engineering
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop and implement the strategic vision for the Project Engineering department, aligning it with overall company objectives and growth initiatives. Drive the adoption of advanced engineering methodologies and technologies to enhance project delivery and outcomes, ensuring long-term departmental success and competitive advantage.
Project Portfolio Management
Oversee a diverse portfolio of complex engineering projects, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, schedule, and quality standards. Implement robust project governance frameworks and performance metrics, regularly reviewing progress and making necessary adjustments to maintain trajectory.
Technical Excellence & Standards
Establish and enforce best-in-class engineering standards, processes, and practices across all projects. Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to engineering teams, ensuring the highest level of technical integrity and innovation, and promoting continuous learning within the department.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of project engineers, managers, and technical specialists. Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and results-oriented work environment that encourages professional growth, knowledge sharing, and empowers individuals to achieve their full potential.
Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
Act as the primary technical liaison between engineering teams, clients, senior management, and external partners. Ensure transparent and effective communication regarding project status, risks, strategic decisions, and technical challenges, building strong relationships and managing expectations.
Risk Management & Mitigation
Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate technical and project-related risks across the portfolio. Develop robust contingency plans and implement effective solutions to overcome challenges, ensure project continuity, and minimize potential disruptions.
Budget & Resource Management
Manage departmental budgets, allocate human and capital resources effectively, and optimize operational costs without compromising quality or project timelines. Implement financial controls and reporting mechanisms to ensure fiscal responsibility.
Process Improvement & Innovation
Champion continuous improvement initiatives within the engineering department, introducing innovative tools, technologies, and methodologies to enhance efficiency, productivity, and project outcomes. This includes exploring and integrating Project Management Institute (PMI) standards and other industry best practices to elevate project execution.
Quality Assurance & Control
Implement rigorous quality assurance and control procedures to ensure all engineering deliverables meet the highest standards of accuracy, reliability, and compliance with relevant regulations and specifications. Oversee reviews and audits to maintain quality throughout the project lifecycle.
Cross-functional Collaboration
Collaborate closely with R&D, operations, manufacturing, sales, and supply chain teams to ensure seamless project integration and alignment with broader business goals. Facilitate inter-departmental synergy to achieve holistic organizational success.
Technology Adoption
Evaluate and implement new engineering software, tools, and platforms (e.g., CAD/CAM, simulation software, PLM systems) to enhance design capabilities, project visualization, data management, and overall engineering efficiency.
Regulatory Compliance
Ensure all engineering activities and project deliverables comply with national and international industry standards, safety regulations, environmental guidelines, and client-specific requirements. Stay abreast of evolving regulatory landscapes and ensure proactive adherence.
Vendor & Contractor Management
Oversee the selection, evaluation, and management of external vendors, consultants, and contractors, ensuring their performance aligns with project requirements, quality standards, and company values. Negotiate contracts and manage relationships effectively.
Performance Reporting
Develop and present comprehensive reports on project performance, departmental achievements, key metrics, and strategic initiatives to senior leadership and stakeholders, providing actionable insights for future planning.
Knowledge Management
Establish robust systems for capturing, disseminating, and leveraging engineering knowledge and lessons learned across the organization to foster continuous improvement, prevent recurrence of issues, and build institutional expertise.
Requirements for the Director of Project Engineering
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (e.g., Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Industrial, or a related field) from an accredited institution is required. A Master’s degree in Engineering Management, Business Administration (MBA), or a related discipline is highly preferred, demonstrating advanced strategic and managerial capabilities.
Professional Licensure
Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent international certification is mandatory, signifying a commitment to ethical practice and professional competence. Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from the Project Management Institute (PMI) or equivalent is also highly desirable, reinforcing project leadership skills.
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in project engineering, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership or management role overseeing complex engineering projects. Demonstrated experience in managing large-scale projects, portfolios, or programs with significant budgetary and personnel responsibilities, preferably within heavy industrial, infrastructure, or advanced manufacturing sectors.
Technical Expertise
Proven track record of successful project delivery in relevant industries (e.g., heavy industrial, infrastructure, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing). Deep understanding of engineering principles, design methodologies, construction practices, and the entire project lifecycle management, from conceptualization to commissioning.
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making abilities. Proven capacity to build, motivate, and manage high-performing engineering teams in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, fostering a culture of accountability and innovation.
Project Management Software
Proficiency with industry-standard project management software (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira) and advanced engineering design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Revit, ETABS, SAP2000), demonstrating capability in modern engineering workflows.
Communication
Superior written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical information to diverse audiences, including senior executives, clients, and technical teams. Strong negotiation, conflict resolution, and presentation skills are essential for effective stakeholder engagement.
Problem-Solving
Advanced analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with a proactive, systematic approach to identifying potential issues, root cause analysis, and implementing effective, sustainable solutions under pressure.
Financial Acumen
Strong understanding of project financials, budgeting, cost control, forecasting, and contract management, enabling sound financial decision-making and project profitability.
Regulatory Knowledge
Thorough knowledge of relevant industry codes, standards, and regulatory requirements (e.g., OSHA, EPA, ISO standards, local building codes), ensuring project compliance and safety.
Change Management
Experience leading organizational change initiatives, driving process improvements, and fostering a culture of adaptability and continuous improvement within engineering operations.
Travel
Ability to travel as needed to project sites, client meetings, and industry conferences (estimated 20-30%), demonstrating flexibility and commitment to project success.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client values its employees as their most vital asset and offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your professional growth, personal well-being, and financial security. As a Director of Project Engineering, you will be eligible for:
Competitive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary package commensurate with experience and industry standards, including performance-based bonuses, long-term incentives, and profit-sharing opportunities that reward your contributions.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family, along with wellness programs, employee assistance programs, and flexible spending accounts to support your health needs.
Retirement Planning
Generous 401(k) retirement plan with substantial company matching contributions, comprehensive financial planning resources, and investment opportunities to help you secure your financial future.
Paid Time Off
Ample paid vacation, sick leave, and company holidays, along with personal days, to ensure a healthy work-life balance and opportunities for rejuvenation.
Professional Development
Significant investment in your continuous learning and career advancement through professional development courses, support for obtaining and maintaining certifications (e.g., PMP renewal support), attendance at industry conferences, and tailored leadership training programs.
Flexible Work Environment
Opportunities for flexible work arrangements, including remote work options and adaptable schedules, to support work-life integration and enhance productivity.
Life & Disability Insurance
Company-paid life insurance, short-term, and long-term disability insurance coverage, providing financial security for you and your loved ones.
Innovative Culture
Work in a collaborative, innovative, and challenging environment where your contributions are recognized, valued, and directly impact the company’s success and industry leadership.
Impactful Work
The opportunity to lead projects that have a significant impact on industry and society, contributing to sustainable, advanced, and groundbreaking solutions that make a real difference.
Relocation Assistance
For qualified candidates, comprehensive relocation assistance may be provided to ensure a smooth transition to your new role and location.
How to Apply
Are you ready to take on a leadership role that will challenge your expertise and amplify your impact? If you are a visionary engineering leader with a passion for excellence and a proven track record of successful project delivery, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter outlining your qualifications and why you are the ideal candidate for this Director of Project Engineering position. In your cover letter, highlight your experience leading large-scale projects, managing diverse engineering teams, and your strategic approach to overcoming complex technical challenges.
Discover more about how JRG Partners excels in connecting top-tier talent with leading organizations by visiting our Engineering Recruitment Practice Area page. We look forward to hearing from you and exploring how your leadership can drive our client’s success.
JRG Partners and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
