Mechanical Project Leader
Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite, Manufacturing Environment)
Compensation: $80K–$120K base + benefits
Reports to: Engineering Manager
Type: Full-time | Technical Leadership Role | High-Impact Project Delivery
Sector: Heavy Industrial Manufacturing (Paper Mill)

About The Company
This global manufacturing leader operates one of the highest-output papermills in the region and is committed to innovation, uptime, and continuous improvement. With a focus on operational excellence and reliability, the team is seeking a Mechanical Project Leader to drive capital and maintenance-related projects that directly support plant performance and safety.

The Opportunity
This role blends mechanical engineering, problem-solving, and hands-on project management in a high-performance industrial setting. You’ll lead the full lifecycle of mechanical projects—from troubleshooting root causes to vendor engagement and final execution. You’ll also help align reliability goals and ensure improvements are embedded into future operations.

What You’ll Do
Project Leadership & Execution

• Lead mechanical projects from scoping through completion, including timelines, resources, and contractor oversight

• Own post-root cause implementation of mechanical solutions and preventative improvements

• Coordinate vendor engagement, RFQs, and quotation reviews to support sourcing decisions

Technical & Maintenance Support

• Partner with reliability and maintenance teams to resolve recurring mechanical issues

• Provide engineering support during complex troubleshooting efforts

• Review and optimize predictive maintenance strategies within SAP CMMS

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Align project goals with internal stakeholders across maintenance, operations, and EH&S

• Communicate clearly across departments and vendors to maintain alignment and progress

• Champion safety, quality, and efficiency throughout project lifecycles

Continuous Improvement

• Support and enhance core maintenance processes including Defect Handling and Breakdown Elimination

• Embed Lean Production System principles into project planning and execution

You’d Be a Great Fit If You Have:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering + active PE license (U.S.-licensed)

• 5+ years of experience in maintenance, reliability, or engineering project roles in industrial settings

• Strong skills in CMMS systems (preferably SAP) for planning and execution

• Demonstrated critical thinking and root cause analysis capabilities

• Experience using MS Project or equivalent for scheduling and project management

• Clear, concise communicator across technical and non-technical teams

Bonus Points For:

• Experience in pulp and paper, chemicals, or heavy manufacturing sectors

• Background in capital project delivery within operational facilities

• Familiarity with vendor negotiations, bid evaluations, and contractor management

Why Join Us

• Lead essential projects that directly impact plant performance and reliability

• Work in a facility committed to safety, operational excellence, and professional growth

• Contribute to a forward-thinking, engineering-led culture with strong team collaboration

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