At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and deliver exciting CAPEX projects in a dynamic chemical manufacturing environment.
- Company: Major Upper Tier COMAH chemical manufacturing facility in the West Midlands.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a chance to work on impactful projects.
- Other info: Join a fast-paced team focused on continuous improvement and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in safety and efficiency while managing complex engineering projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management within high-hazard industries and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
About the Role
Seeking an experienced Mechanical Project Engineer to lead and deliver a portfolio of CAPEX projects at a major Upper Tier COMAH chemical manufacturing facility in the West Midlands. This role is critical in ensuring that site improvements, expansions, and asset upgrades are executed safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with stringent regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the chemical, process, or high‑hazard manufacturing industries, with demonstrable experience managing complex engineering projects from concept through to commissioning.
Key Responsibilities
- Project Delivery & Execution: Lead the full lifecycle of CAPEX projects, including feasibility assessment, scoping, front‑end engineering design, detailed engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, and handover to operations. Oversee multiple concurrent projects, ranging from small asset upgrades to major plant modifications (£1M+).
- Compliance & Safety (Upper Tier COMAH): Ensure all project activities comply with COMAH regulations, process safety requirements, and site EHS standards. Lead and participate in hazard studies (HAZOP, HAZID, LOPA), risk assessments, and safety reviews. Ensure contractors and project teams operate to required safety standards and site rules.
- Project Controls & Governance: Develop and manage project schedules, budgets, and cost forecasts, ensuring delivery to agreed timelines and financial targets. Prepare project justification documents, business cases, technical specifications, and change control documentation. Provide regular progress reports to senior stakeholders, including risk status, cost performance, and milestone achievements.
- Stakeholder & Team Management: Coordinate cross‑functional teams including engineering, operations, maintenance, EHS, procurement, and external contractors. Manage vendor relationships, evaluate technical proposals, and oversee supplier/contractor performance. Ensure clear communication throughout all project stages to align expectations and resolve issues promptly.
- Continuous Improvement: Capture lessons learned and embed best practices into future projects. Identify opportunities to improve plant performance, reliability, safety, and operational efficiency. Support ongoing development of site engineering and project management processes.
Essential Requirements
- Proven experience as a Project Manager or Senior Project Engineer within the chemical, process, or high‑hazard industrial sector.
- Strong working knowledge of Upper Tier COMAH regulations and safety‑critical environments.
- Demonstrable experience delivering CAPEX projects (preferably £1M+ in value).
- Strong understanding of engineering principles, plant operations, and process design.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
- Competency with project management methodologies (PRINCE2, APM, PMP) and relevant software tools (e.g., MS Project).
Desired Skills & Experience
- Experience within chemical manufacturing, polymers, resins, batch processes, pharmaceuticals, or related industries.
- Strong capability in contractor management and CDM compliance.
- Knowledge of process safety standards (PSM, COMAH, DSEAR).
- Experience working in brownfield operational environments, with strict shutdown windows and operational constraints.
- Competence using engineering documentation: P&IDs, PFDs, layouts, and technical drawings.
- Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP), document control systems, and quality management processes.
Personal Attributes
- Proactive and solution‑focused mindset.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Confident communicator capable of influencing at all levels.
- Safety‑driven attitude with meticulous attention to detail.
- Able to thrive in a fast‑paced, complex, and highly regulated environment.
Project Engineer in Oldbury employer: Computer Futures / SThree Group
As a leading employer in the chemical manufacturing sector, we offer Project Engineers the opportunity to work on impactful CAPEX projects within a major Upper Tier COMAH facility in the West Midlands. Our commitment to safety, compliance, and continuous improvement fosters a collaborative work culture where employees are encouraged to grow their skills and advance their careers. With competitive benefits and a focus on professional development, we provide a rewarding environment for those looking to make a meaningful contribution in a dynamic industry.
Contact Details:
Computer Futures / SThree Group Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Engineer in Oldbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the chemical and engineering sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to project management and safety compliance. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This will help you showcase your experience effectively!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your project successes! Create a portfolio that highlights your CAPEX projects, including challenges faced and how you overcame them. This visual representation can really impress potential employers and set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for talented Project Engineers like you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people!
We think you need these skills to ace Project Engineer in Oldbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Project Engineer role. Highlight your experience in managing CAPEX projects and your knowledge of COMAH regulations. We want to see how your background fits with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your project management successes and how you’ve ensured compliance and safety in past projects.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to highlight your technical skills and project management methodologies like PRINCE2 or PMP. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their understanding of engineering principles and safety standards.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the process smoother for everyone involved!
How to prepare for a job interview at Computer Futures / SThree Group
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the projects you've managed, especially those related to CAPEX in the chemical or high-hazard sectors. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Brush Up on COMAH Regulations
Since compliance with Upper Tier COMAH regulations is crucial for this role, take some time to review these regulations and be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in past projects. Highlight any hazard studies or risk assessments you've led, as this shows your commitment to safety.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership and stakeholder management abilities. Think of examples where you've successfully coordinated cross-functional teams or managed vendor relationships. Be ready to explain how you keep communication clear and effective throughout project stages.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to engineering principles, project management methodologies, and tools like MS Project. Brush up on your knowledge of P&IDs, PFDs, and other engineering documentation. Being able to speak confidently about these topics will set you apart from other candidates.
