Job Title:
Project Engineer
Company: Ambrose
Location: Olathe, KS
Created: 2026-05-09
Job Type: Full Time
Job Description:
Position SummaryThe Project Engineer plays a critical role in the successful execution of integrated packaging and material handling systems. This role bridges engineering design, project management, and field execution"”ensuring that systems are not only well-designed, but buildable, installable, and successful in real-world operating conditions. This is not a desk-only design role. The ideal candidate is comfortable owning projects from concept through commissioning, working across mechanical design, vendor coordination, controls integration, and on-site startup. A strong mechanical engineering foundation is required, with additional value placed on robotics experience (FANUC preferred) and system-level thinking. Key ResponsibilitiesProject Ownership & ExecutionLead engineering execution of projects from kickoff through commissioning Translate customer requirements into functional system designs and layouts Manage project scope, timelines, and technical deliverables in coordination with internal and external teams Serve as the technical point of contact for customers, vendors, and internal stakeholders Mechanical Design & System LayoutDevelop and refine system layouts (AutoCAD / SolidWorks) for integrated packaging lines Design conveyor systems, equipment integration points, guarding, and structural elements Ensure designs reflect real-world constraints: product flow, accumulation, ergonomics, serviceability, and safety Support design reviews and iterative improvements as projects evolve Integration & Vendor CoordinationWork across multiple OEMs to integrate best-fit equipment into a cohesive system Review vendor drawings and ensure alignment with overall system design and performance expectations Coordinate mechanical and controls interfaces between equipment Support procurement with technical validation of equipment selections Robotics & Automation (Preferred Experience)Support design and integration of robotic systems (primarily palletizing - FANUC preferred) Participate in reach studies, end-of-arm-tooling (EOAT) concepts, and cell layouts Collaborate with controls engineers on robot integration and functionality Ensure safe and effective robotic cell design (guarding, risk assessments, etc.) Testing, Commissioning & Field SupportLead or support Integrator Acceptance Testing (IAT) at Ambrose facility Support Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) with OEMs when required Travel to customer sites for installation support, startup, and system commissioning Troubleshoot mechanical and system-level issues during startup and ramp-up Cross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with Applications Engineering during project handoff Partner with Controls Engineering on system functionality and sequencing Support Sales with technical input when needed (not a primary sales role) Coordinate with Service team for long-term system support considerations Qualifications & ExperienceRequiredBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and or 7+ year in related field experience in industrial equipment, automation, or system integration Strong proficiency in AutoCAD (SolidWorks preferred) Experience with mechanical system design and layout development Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment Willingness to travel (~25-40%) PreferredExperience in packaging, material handling, or end-of-line automation Robotics experience (FANUC highly preferred; palletizing applications a plus) Exposure to controls systems (PLC/HMI fundamentals) Experience with conveyors, case handling, filling systems, or palletizing Project management experience or demonstrated ownership of projects Core CompetenciesSystems Thinking: Ability to see the full line"”not just individual machines Practical Design Approach: Designs that work in the field, not just on paper Problem Solving: Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis skills Communication: Clear, direct communication across internal teams and customers Accountability: Ownership mindset from design through startup Adaptability: Comfortable in a fluid environment with evolving project needs What Success Looks LikeProjects are executed on time with minimal rework Systems perform as intended in real production environments Strong collaboration across engineering, sales, and field teams Effective handling of field challenges without escalation where possible Continuous improvement in design standards and execution processes