What does a Project Engineer do?
Project Engineers visit construction sites and factories, make changes to increase efficiency, and help projects succeed while staying within budgets. They also help organizations estimate completion times for projects and forecast expenses such as labour, materials, and sales locations. Project Engineers research average material prices and pay rates, and recommend designs and upgrades to customers. They make sure companies comply with applicable laws and regulations as well.
Project Engineer skills and qualifications
Successful Project Engineers are friendly, polite, and professional. They finish tasks under pressure, meet strict deadlines, and pay attention to a variety of complex details. Project Engineers are also often required to collaborate with people from various backgrounds. Top skills and qualifications for Project Engineers include:
- Outstanding people skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to plan and adapt to unforeseen situations
- Understanding of math, and how to keep track of expenses and follow a budget
- Ability to understand and create blueprints and charts
- Good sense of direction and the ability to use maps or smartphone apps to find new job sites
- Extensive understanding of industry methods and materials
Project Engineer experience requirements
Most Project Manager positions require at least three to five years of project engineering, manufacturing, or operations experience. Ideal candidates should also have some management experience as they will have to delegate work to employees. It’s often preferable for candidates to have some experience working in the same industry.
Project Engineer education and training requirements
Most Project Engineer jobs require a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a similar field. Some prefer candidates with master’s degrees or doctorates. Engineering licences are usually needed for Project Engineers as well. In most regions, they require three to four years in an internship or apprenticeship and a professional examination, with Project Engineers usually needing on-the-job training.
Project Engineer job expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average Project Engineer in Canada earns a salary of $73,026 per year. This amount will vary depending on certain factors such as location, level of experience, and the type of industry.
Job description samples for similar positions
If a Project Engineer isn’t exactly what your business is looking for, other job descriptions that may suit your company’s needs include: