Projects Engineer II

Day & Zimmermann; Middletown (IA); On-site; USD 76,000 - 114,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental & Vision

Maternity leave

Parental leave

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Flexible spending accounts

Job summary

American Ordnance, a Day & Zimmermann Company, is seeking a Project Engineer II to lead capital projects, from equipment upgrades to new cell designs, and drive automation across the plant. You will manage scope, schedule, and budget with cross‑functional teams.

Ideal candidates hold a BA/BS in Engineering with 3–5 years in production and project work, and can navigate safety, environmental, and sustainability initiatives while delivering on time and within budget.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering required.
• 3–5 years of production and project experience with automated processes.
• Background screening mandatory.
• Must possess a valid REAL ID‑compliant driver's license or current passport indicating federal compliance.

Responsibilities

• Execute new capital projects on time and on budget (equipment upgrades, cell designs, large upgrades).
• Develop scope, identify equipment, oversee installation and commissioning plans.
• Champion automation and continuous improvement across the plant.
• Support safety, environmental, and sustainability initiatives.
• Manage multiple projects and resources across phases.

Skills

Engineering skills

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering

Job description

About American Ordnance

At American Ordnance, we know the stakes and We do what we say! R We're the team working behind the scenes to make sure our nation’s front lines have safe, high-quality ammunition. As a trusted premier manufacturer of ammunition to the U.S. Military, some of our capabilities range from production of direct and indirect fire, warheads, to special projects and beyond. With more than 70 years of experience and Day & Zimmermann behind us, it's no surprise that our teams consistently exceed expectations. Come join in on our purpose – We put people to work, we protect American freedoms, and we help our customers power and improve the world! https://aollc.biz

Build the Future of Manufacturing!

Love solving problems, bringing big ideas to life, and seeing your work make a real impact? As a Project Engineer II, you'll lead exciting projects that transform our manufacturing operations, from designing cutting-edge equipment and automation solutions to launching brand-new production cells. You'll collaborate with cross-functional teams, manage projects from concept to completion, champion continuous improvement, and help create safer, smarter, and more efficient processes. If you're a hands‑on engineer who thrives on innovation, enjoys tackling complex challenges, and wants to leave your mark on the future of manufacturing, this is the role for you!

As the Project Engineer II, here's the work you'll do:

• Responsible for executing new capital projects and ensuring assigned projects are being completed on time and on budget. These projects will range from equipment upgrades and machine/cell designs to large capital improvement projects.
• Prepare scope of project, identification of equipment for sourcing, oversee installation and construction of new projects and prepare capital estimates to obtain project approval. Developing equipment specifications and commissioning plans, ensuring that the equipment is safe and meets the needs of manufacturing. Develop processing parameters and operating instructions.
• Participate in the identification and implementation of continuous improvement initiatives and be a champion for automation throughout the plant. Supporting safety, environmental, and sustainability initiatives that keep both employees and the environment protected. Trouble shooting equipment and developing permanent solutions to address recurring issues.
• Manage multiple projects in various phases. Manage professional services, contractor, and construction resources.
• All other duties as assigned.

This role is for you if you have these skills:

• Excellent technical and engineering skills, written and verbal communication skills including leading group meetings/projects.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, effectively prioritize workload and be committed to continuous process improvement.
• Self‑starter; willingness to be hands‑on with projects and drive them from imagination to implementation.
• Desire to start‑up new equipment/processes and train others to ensure process run properly.
• Government Secret Clearance may be required.

And These Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) in Engineering , Required
• 3‑5 years of production and project related experience with automated processes for discreet manufacturing, Required
• Successful completion of a background screening process is mandated for all candidates.
• A positive attitude and the ability to collaborate with team members is essential for contributing to a cohesive work environment.
• Must possess a valid REAL ID‑compliant driver's license, which includes the gold or black star in the upper corner OR current passport indicating it is federally compliant.

Candidates may be required to satisfy additional job-related requirements, including those established and controlled by third parties, as part of the selection process.

In compliance with this state’s pay transparency laws, the salary range for this role is $76,080 to $114,120. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. (The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

We care about our employee's and it shows! Our staff receive a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical/Rx, dental and vision coverage; life, AD&D and disability insurance; flexible spending accounts; 100% paid maternity leave for up to 12 weeks, parental leave, family leave, other paid time off; voluntary benefits and discount programs to meet our employees’ individual needs including pet insurance for our furry family members.

To Ensure a Safe Work Environment While Meeting The Physical Demands Of The Job, You Must Be Able To Perform The Following Physical And Mental Tasks, With Or Without a Reasonable Accommodation

• Visual acuity (e.g., needed to prepare and analyze data, to transcribe documents, to view a computer, to read, to inspect objects, to operate machinery)
• Pushing or pulling (e.g., using a part of your body to press against something in a downward or outward direction, or in a dragging or hauling motion)
• Balancing (e.g., maintaining equilibrium when walking, climbing, crouching etc.)
• Manual Dexterity (e.g., picking, pinching, typing, or other working that uses the fingers)
• Stooping (e.g., bending the spine at the waist)
• Grasping (e.g., use of hand to apply pressure)
• Reaching (e.g., reaching the arms or legs in any direction)
• Feeling (e.g., perceiving an object’s size, shape, texture etc.)
• Lifting motion or lifting objects more than 10 pounds
• Climbing (e.g., ascending/descending ladders, stair, scaffolding, ramps, pole etc. using feet and legs or hands/arms to climb)
• Walking
• Hearing
• Repetitive motions of any part of the body
• Talking
• Kneeling, crouching or crawling
• Capacity to think, concentrate and focus over long periods of time
• Ability to write complex documents in the English language
• Ability to read complex documents in English language
• Capacity to reason and make sound decisions
• Ability to wear a mask, respirator, bullet proof vest, or other equipment
• Ability to regularly perform all job functions at Company’s office or work site
• Ability to withstand environmental conditions (e.g., extreme heat or cold, grass, wind, sand, fumes, odors, gases, extreme noise, etc.)

Diversity, Inclusion & Equal Employment Opportunity

American Ordnance, a Day & Zimmermann Company, is an Equal Opportunity Employer, M/F/D/V. Diversity, and Inclusion & Equal Employment Opportunity: American Ordnance is committed to maintaining an inclusive workforce, where employees are hired, retained, compensated and promoted based on their contributions to our Company. Our collective strength is rooted in over 110 years of diverse employees and businesses, commitment to success, and delivery on promises made. Federal and state Equal Employment Opportunity laws prohibit employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity, age, national origin, citizenship status, veteran status and disability status. American Ordnance is committed to providing an equal opportunity work environment in full compliance with these laws. If you are an individual with a disability and you require an accommodation in the application process, please email [e-mail].