Senior Project Engineer

Location: Madison, Wisconsin, United States, Amherst, Wisconsin, United States

Department: Engineering

Workplace: hybrid

Employment Type: full

Description

The Senior Project Engineer is a senior-level individual contributor responsible for delivering high-quality mechanical engineering solutions on assigned projects. Working under the direction of the Mechanical Engineering Manager and in coordination with the Project Manager, this role provides advanced technical expertise, prepares detailed engineering deliverables, and supports execution activities within defined project constraints. This role receives task assignments and workload prioritization from the Mechanical Engineering Manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Engineering & Design
• Lead development of project plans, design packages, equipment specifications, layouts, and engineering deliverables.
• Produce detailed drawings, models, and specifications utilizing CAD tools (2D/3D).
• Develop and maintain PFDs, P&IDs, utility and equipment matrices, scope documents, and installation packages.
• Recommend materials, components, and system configurations ensuring reliability, efficiency, and performance.
• Project Execution & Technical Support
• Execute assigned engineering tasks in alignment with project scope, schedule, and budget established by the Project Manager and Mechanical Engineering Manager.
• Provide technical problem-solving, design alternatives, and value-engineering options to reduce costs, improve schedule, and enhance serviceability.
• Prepare and review equipment specifications, vendor submittals, and technical documentation to support procurement decisions.
• Support commissioning, field testing, troubleshooting, and installation activities by providing mechanical engineering expertise as directed by the Project Manager.
• Collaborate closely with internal engineering disciplines (process, controls, electrical), installation teams, and external vendors to resolve technical challenges and maintain project momentum.
• Customer & Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Serve as primary technical contact for clients throughout project phases.
• Maintain effective communication with internal teams, contractors, and vendors.
• Collaborate with operations, controls, and fabrication teams to resolve challenges.
• Quality, Compliance, and Continuous Improvement
• Ensure project designs adhere to regulatory codes, industry standards, and policies.
• Identify and implement process and design improvements.
• Prepare technical reports, progress updates, design changes, and recommendations.
• Value Engineering & Budgeted Hours
• Identify cost-saving, schedule-improving, and maintainability-enhancing design opportunities and communicate these options to the Project Manager and Mechanical Engineering Manager.
• Manage assigned engineering hours responsibly, track progress against budget, and proactively communicate risks to staying within budgeted hours.

Why Join Sharpe?

Sharpe Engineering & Equipment is built on a People-Centric foundation, where collaboration, integrity, and technical excellence drive everything we do. As a Senior Project Engineer, you will have the opportunity to work closely with talented engineering teams, trusted client partners, and innovative technologies to bring meaningful solutions to life. Your work will not only shape systems and processes, it will help shape the future of a growing organization that values your voice, your expertise, and your impact.

Requirements

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Process, Industrial, or related Engineering field required.
• 7–10 years of engineering experience, including significant experience managing or leading complex technical projects.
• Experience in equipment/system design, project engineering, or multidisciplinary engineering environments required.
• Experience in sanitary, food & beverage, processing systems, or industrial manufacturing preferred.
• Experience with AutoCAD, Inventor, Plant 3D, or similar 2D/3D design platforms.
• Strong understanding of mechanical systems, equipment design, and system integration.
• Ability to develop and review PFDs, P&IDs, mass balances, and specifications.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to lead project tasks and influence cross-functional teams.
• Strong problem-solving ability and engineering judgment.

Benefits

Sharpe Engineering offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and work-life balance. Our benefits include paid time off (PTO) plus 10 paid holidays, a flexible work schedule, and medical, dental, and vision insurance. We also provide short-term and long-term disability coverage, as well as life insurance, helping ensure peace of mind for you and your family.