Lead Project Engineer

Title: Lead Project Engineer- MechanicalLocation: Richmond, VA- fully onsiteType: Multi-year projectHourly Pay: $75-$100 per hour, based on level of experience plus per diemBenefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Holidays, PTOAre you ready for a career-defining challenge at the forefront of biopharmaceutical manufacturing? We’re seeking a Lead Mechanical Project Engineer to join the core project team supporting a major, next-generation biologics and bioconjugation facility in the Richmond, VA area.Key Responsibilities:Manage multiple capital projects through conceptual design, detailed engineering, construction, commissioning, qualification, and startup.Serve as the mechanical engineering lead for assigned projects and systems.Develop User Requirements Specifications (URS) and establish project design basis with stakeholders.Manage and coordinate external engineering firms, construction managers, contractors, and vendors.Review and approve engineering deliverables, including drawings, specifications, calculations, and technical documentation.Coordinate project activities with Manufacturing, Facilities, QA, QC, EHS, and other functional groups.Oversee construction execution, startup activities, commissioning efforts, and system turnover.Support review and approval of commissioning and qualification protocols.Provide technical troubleshooting and engineering support for facility, utility, and process systems.Manage project schedules, budgets, forecasts, change orders, and capital requests.The Ideal Candidate Will Bring:Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline5+ years of experience as a Project Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Project Manager, or similar role supporting pharmaceutical, biotechnology, life sciences industriesDemonstrated experience supporting mid to large size capital projects from design through construction, commissioning, and qualification.Strong knowledge of pharmaceutical facility infrastructure and mechanical systems.Experience reviewing and approving engineering designs, specifications, calculations, and construction documents for: HVAC systems, Clean utilities, Plant utilities, Process piping systems, Mechanical equipment installations, Utility distribution systemsMust be able to work fully onsite in Richmond VA What happens next:Once you apply, you’ll proceed to next steps if your skills and experience look like a good fit. But don’t worry – even if this position doesn’t work out, you’re still in the Kelly Engineering network. That means our team of expert engineering recruiters will have access to your profile, making your opportunities limitless