What is a Project Engineer?

A Project Engineer manages technical or engineering projects. They work with stakeholders at all levels, with direct responsibility for budgeting, personnel and project planning.

Let’s take a closer look at the details of the role of a Project Engineer.

Project engineering is typically the management of engineering and technical projects – this includes management of personnel, budget, and scheduling to deliver a successful project outcome that is fit for purpose.

In addition to these factors, a significant consideration of the work of project engineers is the safety of the project. They will work to minimize the risks associated with engineering projects.

The project engineer will act a coordinating figure, dealing with stakeholders across all areas of the project. They will interpret the needs, expectations, and limitations of each, and bring them together with the aim of successful project delivery.

What does a Project Engineer do?

The role of a Project Engineer can vary from project to project. Project Engineers can be the individual in charge of a project or they can be a co-lead or an assistant alongside a project manager, giving advice and supervision to the engineering aspects of the project.

Whatever the specific set up, the project engineer will likely be the one in charge of the technical considerations and team within a project.

As well as office-based time, a project engineer will likely spend a significant amount of time “on site” at the project.

Although specifics can vary, general tasks often include:

• Interpretation of the desired outcome into a detailed plan that can be implemented by a project team
• Planning and forecasting of the project
• Acquisition of appropriate staff, materials, and equipment
• Liaising with contractors, suppliers and internal company stakeholders
• Keeping the project on schedule
• Keeping the project on budget
• Man management of the project team
• Ongoing reporting of the project progress
• Ensuring that all aspects of the project proceed while adhering to internal company SOPs as well as external regulations and laws – this includes maintenance of project documentation
• Troubleshooting problems as they arise on a project – finding efficient and effective solutions
• Commissioning and qualification responsibilities