Engineering Manager - Projects Team

Engineering Manager - Projects Team
 

Westlake Pipe & Fittings, a Westlake division (NYSE:WLK), is one of the largest polyvinyl chloride pipe and fittings manufacturer in North America. With 23 manufacturing and distribution locations, the company supplies gasketed, solvent weld and restrained joint pipes and a wide range of fittings for a diverse list of markets including municipal water and sewer, plumbing, water well, pool and spa, and agricultural and turf irrigation. Westlake Pipe & Fittings is an industry leader in product development with Certa-Lok® spline-lock technology and product systems that are focused on building A Better Foundation. To learn more, visit the website at WestlakePipe.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook. 

SUMMARY

The Engineering Project Manager role is responsible for the capital expenditure (CAPEX) process within the Pipe & Fittings business. This role will focus on optimizing processes, reducing costs, improving efficiency, and enhancing product quality through effective project management and cross-functional collaboration. The Engineering Project Manager will serve as a critical link between the engineering, production, maintenance and supply chain teams to ensure equipment reliability, operational efficiency, and the successful execution of capital projects are aligned with the company’s strategic goals.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

May include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Lead the project engineering team.
• Manage the CAPEX process for the business.
• Oversee planning, budgeting, and execution of capital expenditure projects to enhance manufacturing capabilities and capacity.
• Prepare project proposals, cost estimations, timelines, and resource allocations for capital improvement projects.
• Lead and coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet quality standards.
• Ensure all projects comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Support the introduction of new technologies or machinery to optimize production processes.
• Develop and manage budgets for projects.
• Track expenses, control project costs, and seek cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or safety.
• Provide regular updates and financial reports to management on project statuses, financials, and anticipated ROI.
• Mentor and coach engineering team members, fostering a culture of innovation, problem-solving, and accountability.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with cross-functional teams, including production, quality, maintenance, and safety.
• Ensure all projects adhere to health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Champion a culture of safety within the engineering team, prioritizing risk assessments and safe work practices in all activities.
   

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering or related field. Master’s degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 10+ years of experience in manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a supervisory role focusing on project management and plant operations.
• Strong project management skills with experience in budgeting, scheduling, and resource management for capital projects.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, and project management software (e.g., MS Project).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, equipment reliability, and maintenance practices.
   

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; stand; walk; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.  The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, or crouch. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position may require working on the production floor, which may include exposure to noise, heat, cold, and/or chemicals. Travel required for project oversite and vendor / contractor coordination.

DIRECT REPORTS

• Westlake Pipe & Fittings Project Engineering Team