Project Engineer

ABOUT US

Pitman Farms is a family‑owned and operated company. Vertically integrated we are a poultry, grower, and processor of turkey in Dayton, VA. We offer year-round full-time hours, 401K, and benefits. As a growing company, we are looking for dedicated people to grow with us and become a part of our success. All Pitman Farms employees are challenged to meet the tradition of the Pitman Family to produce only the highest quality products. This is done through hard work, honesty, integrity, passion and dedication in everything we do. Position Summary We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Project Engineer. The person in this role is responsible for planning, managing, and executing engineering projects focused on automation, equipment reliability, and operational efficiency within a manufacturing environment. This role leads cross‑functional initiatives to optimize equipment layouts, workflow, and safety systems while ensuring compliance with industry standards. The Project Engineer drives continuous improvement through data‑driven decision‑making, automation solutions, and effective project governance. Key Accountabilities

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Lead capital and continuous improvement projects from concept through commissioning, including scope definition, scheduling, budgeting, and risk management. Coordinate with operations, maintenance, safety, and vendors to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget. Develop project metrics, dashboards, and reports to track performance, milestones, and equipment capacity utilization.

AUTOMATION & PROCESS OPTIMIZATION

Identify process flow and equipment bottlenecks and develop automation‑based solutions to improve throughput and reduce waste. Support the selection, implementation, and integration of automated systems, controls, and monitoring tools. Standardize processes and equipment layouts to improve reliability, repeatability, and maintainability.

RELIABILITY & SAFETY ENGINEERING

Design and plan equipment and machine layouts with a focus on reliability, ergonomics, and safe operation. Establish and support accident prevention measures and ensure compliance with applicable safety, electrical, and engineering standards. Collaborate with maintenance teams to improve asset performance and reduce unplanned downtime. Collaborate with the Reliability Lead and the Warehouse Manager to ensure equipment spare parts are added to inventory.

TRAINING & TEAM LEADERSHIP

Support and coordinate training programs on new equipment, automated systems, and updated processes. Provide technical guidance and mentorship to engineers, technicians, and operators involved in project execution.

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

Evaluate productivity data and recommend engineering and automation improvements to increase efficiency and reduce operating costs. Drive standard work, lessons learned, and best practices across projects, and production lines. Qualifications Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship. Must be at least 18 years of age. Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience) Minimum of four years of experience in project engineering, manufacturing, automation, or reliability engineering Working knowledge of project management principles, automation systems, and industrial safety standards

Position Information:

Relocation assistance will not be provided for this position. This position typically works 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with flexibility to work additional hours based on business needs.

Work Location:

In person We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person