Engineer Project Lead

Project Engineer

Reports to: Engineering Manager
Classification: Salary-Exempt

Why This Role Is Different

If you’re a recent or soon-to-be graduate from UNC Charlotte (or a similar program) and want more than just a “starter job,” this is it.

At EPAC, you won’t be stuck doing one small piece of a project, you’ll own real work from day one. You’ll collaborate across teams, solve complex engineering problems, and see your ideas turn into real products on the shop floor and in the field.

We move fast, we expect initiative, and we give you the space to figure things out. If you’re someone who enjoys tackling challenges, working through ambiguity, and making an immediate impact, you’ll thrive here.

What You’ll Do

You’ll step into a Project Engineer / Project Lead–style role, where you’ll help drive engineering projects from concept through execution.

Project Ownership & Execution

• Support and lead engineering projects from kickoff to completion
• Help define project scope, timelines, and deliverables
• Track progress, identify risks, and keep projects moving forward
• Balance technical requirements with cost, schedule, and quality

Engineering & Product Development

• Contribute to the design and development of pump systems and components
• Work on real-world engineering challenges involving performance, materials, and manufacturability
• Learn and apply tools like performance analysis, testing, and design validation

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with manufacturing, supply chain, quality, sales, and senior engineers
• Participate in prototype builds, testing, and product launches
• Help bridge the gap between design and production

Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement

• Investigate issues, perform root cause analysis, and help implement solutions
• Support design improvements and cost optimization efforts
• Bring fresh ideas and challenge the status quo

Customer & Application Support (Learning Opportunity)

• Assist in translating customer needs into engineering solutions
• Participate in technical discussions and problem-solving for real applications

What We’re Looking For

We’re less focused on years of experience, and more focused on mindset.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field (recent grads encouraged to apply)
• Strong problem-solving skills and curiosity for how things work
• Ability to read technical drawings or willingness to learn quickly

What Will Set You Apart

• Self-starter who doesn’t wait to be told what to do
• Comfortable working through ambiguity and figuring things out
• Strong communicator who can collaborate across teams
• Hands-on mindset, you enjoy seeing designs come to life
• Internship, co-op, or project experience in manufacturing or design is a plus, not required

What You’ll Gain

• Real ownership early in your career
• Exposure to end-to-end product development
• Mentorship from experienced engineers
• Opportunity to work in both office and manufacturing environments
• A chance to make measurable impact, quickly

Work Environment

• Combination of office and manufacturing floor exposure
• Hands-on involvement with equipment, testing, and production
• Occasional travel may be required

Why EPAC?

If you’re looking for a place where you can grow fast, take ownership, and actually see the results of your work, this is it.