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Project Engineer - Manufacturing & Capital Projects

Gerdau

Petersburg, VA · Posted October 17, 2026

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About the job

At Gerdau, we empower our people to grow, thrive, and make a difference—together. With a culture built on trust and teamwork, we offer meaningful work, continuous development, and opportunities to shape your future. We invite you to come work with us, where your contributions are valued, your voice is heard, and your career is forged with purpose

Project Engineer - Manufacturing & Capital Projects

Build the Future of Steel Manufacturing

At Gerdau, you'll do more than manage projects. You'll lead capital investments that improve safety, reliability, productivity, and performance at one of North America's largest steel manufacturers.

We're seeking a Mechanical Project Engineer to manage capital projects from concept through commissioning in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This is an excellent opportunity for an engineer who enjoys solving complex technical challenges, working closely with operations and maintenance teams, and seeing projects come to life on the plant floor.

In this role, you'll have direct ownership of equipment upgrades, facility improvements, process enhancements, and major capital projects that support our long-term growth strategy.

What You'll Do

Lead Capital Projects

Manage CAPEX projects from planning through startup and project closeout

Develop project scope, schedules, budgets, and business justifications

Coordinate contractors, vendors, consultants, and internal stakeholders

Track project costs, timelines, risks, and deliverables

Ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget

Improve Manufacturing Operations

Identify opportunities to improve equipment reliability and operational performance

Support process improvements and productivity initiatives

Troubleshoot equipment and process issues alongside operations and maintenance teams

Evaluate new technologies and best practices for implementation

Drive Engineering Solutions

Develop equipment specifications and technical bid packages

Support equipment selection, installation, and commissioning activities

Review engineering drawings and project documentation

Manage contractor activities and construction projects within the plant

Support Long-Term Growth

Participate in annual capital planning activities

Evaluate future facility and equipment needs

Recommend projects that improve safety, quality, productivity, and cost performance

Why Engineers Join Gerdau

Own projects from concept through commissioning

Work on high-impact manufacturing and infrastructure projects

Gain exposure to multimillion-dollar capital investments

Partner directly with plant leadership and operations teams

Build broad experience across engineering, maintenance, operations, and project management

Strong career growth opportunities within one of North America's largest steel producers

What You Bring

Required

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related Engineering discipline

2+ years of engineering experience in manufacturing, industrial, energy, mining, chemical, metals, paper, food processing, utilities, or related industries

Experience managing projects, process improvements, equipment installations, or capital projects

Working knowledge of AutoCAD or similar design software

Proficiency with Microsoft Office and project management tools

Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills

Preferred

Experience with industrial manufacturing equipment and systems

Experience managing contractors and construction activities

Knowledge of capital project management practices

Experience in heavy industrial or steel manufacturing environments

Familiarity with commissioning, startup, and equipment optimization

Benefits

Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage Starting Day One

401(k) with 100% Match up to 6%

Annual Bonus Program

Tuition Reimbursement

Life Insurance

Employee Assistance Program

Career Development and Training Opportunities

Relocation Assistance Available

About Gerdau

Gerdau is a leading producer of long steel products and one of the largest recyclers in North America. Through a network of steel mills, recycling facilities, and downstream operations, we supply essential products used in infrastructure, construction, manufacturing, and countless industries that support everyday life.

Join a team that values safety, innovation, continuous improvement, and professional growth.

Gerdau believes in equal employment opportunity related to all employees and applicants for employment. It is the policy of Gerdau that there will be no discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, marital status, sex, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status. All external applicants must be legally eligible to immediately work in the country of hire without current or future sponsorship.

If you are vision-impaired or have some other disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act / Accessible Canada Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to applying for employment at Gerdau, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team at (866)-788-2798 or recruiting@gerdau.com