Mechanical Process Project Engineer

NIRAS Ireland; Munster; On-site; EUR 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

NIRAS Ireland is seeking an experienced Mechanical Process Project Engineer to support a major food products producer at their state‑of‑the‑art Cork facility. You will take technical ownership of capital projects, drive CAPEX delivery, and ensure compliance with GMP, safety and quality standards.

The role involves leading cross‑functional teams, managing commissioning, FAT/SAT, IQ/OQ/PQ, and delivering process improvements from concept through validation.

Qualifications

• Degree or higher qualification in Mechanical Engineering or related technical discipline.
• Proven track record in CAPEX and equipment installations from concept through implementation and validation.
• 5–10 years engineering experience in Food, Beverage, Pharmaceutical or Dairy Manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Technical ownership of capital projects and CAPEX governance, procurement and supplier management.
• Lead commissioning, validation and handover, ensuring GMP, food safety and client standards.
• Collaborate with Production, Operations, Quality and Maintenance, including external vendors.
• Drive process optimization and continuous improvement focused on safety, quality and efficiency.

Skills

CAPEX management

Equipment installation

Cross-functional leadership

QA & compliance

Problem solving

Education

Mechanical/related engineering degree

Tools

FAT/SAT IQ/OQ/PQ

P&ID interpretation

Project documentation

Job description

Mechanical Process Project Engineer

Industry: Pharmaceutical, Food & Beverage, Dairy & Nutrition

Location: Cork – Long Term Contract

NIRAS requires an experienced Mechanical Process Project Engineer to support a major food products producer in capital project initiatives and continuous improvement at their state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing facility in Cork.

Responsibilities

• Technical ownership of capital projects, CAPEX support and governance, project execution and commissioning, procurement and supplier management, compliance, safety, operational readiness, cross‑functional collaboration, standards, handover, reporting and decision support.
• Implementation of engineering solutions, process and facilities troubleshooting, capital project delivery, P&ID standardization and advancement, stakeholder coordination, continuous improvement focused on safety, quality, efficiency and operational performance.
• Work cross‑functionally with Production, Operations, Quality, Maintenance and external vendors.
• Lead projects from concept through commissioning and validation ensuring compliance with GMP, food safety, regulatory and client engineering standards.

Requirements

• Degree or higher qualification in Mechanical Engineering, Packaging, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering or related technical discipline.
• Proven track record in CAPEX and equipment installations from concept through implementation and validation.
• 5–10 years engineering experience in Food, Beverage, Pharmaceutical or Dairy Manufacturing.
• Experience in process optimization and performance improvement.
• Experience in engaging OEMs, partners and cross‑functional teams.
• Proven expertise in contractor and OEM safe working standards.
• Experience in commissioning and qualification (FAT/SAT, IQ/OQ/PQ).
• Ability to interpret engineering documents (P&IDs, PFDs, layouts, technical specs).
• Proficient in RFQ documentation.
• Strong troubleshooting and proactive problem‑solving skills.
• Familiarity with project management principles and CAPEX processes.
• Strong understanding of automation and process control (PLC/SCADA).
• Well‑acquainted with CIP systems and hygienic process design.
• Ability to lead technical discussions with vendors, contractors and specialist suppliers.
• Strong leadership and team‑management abilities.
• Effective communicator with technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Strong influencing skills and ability to align cross‑functional teams.
• Constructive conflict management skills.
• Strong stakeholder‑management and relationship‑building skills.
• Commitment to a safety‑first culture.