Contract Hydro Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Hydro Aluminium Metal is a leading supplier of extrusion ingots, sheet ingots, foundry alloys, wire rods, and high-purity aluminium, with a global production network of around 6,000 employees. With primary metal production facilities in Europe, Canada, Australia, Brazil, and Qatar, and recycling facilities throughout Europe and the U.S., two-thirds of our primary aluminium production is based on renewable energy.
What we offer you

• Medical, Rx, Dental, Disability, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts
• Retirement Savings Plans with Company Match/Contributions
• Education Assistance
• Bonus Plan Eligibility
• Parental Leave

Job Summary
The Project Manager is responsible for leading capital and process improvement projects across all phases - from feasibility study through design, execution, and completion through the aluminum value chain. This role ensures projects are delivered safely, on time, on budget, and to specification, while coordinating closely with plant operations, engineering, procurement, and external contractors.
What you will be doing

• Define project tasks, resource requirements, and staffing plans
• Develop and manage project budgets, schedules, and risk registers
• Prepare and maintain project documentation, including scopes of work, technical specifications, RFQs/RFPs, contracts, and change orders
• Coordinate equipment selection, procurement, and vendor management in collaboration with respective stakeholders
• Track and report project progress, risks, issues, and mitigation plans to leadership and stakeholders
• Manage onsite execution, including coordination of contractors, equipment deliveries, installation, commissioning, and start-up
• Ensure onsite logistics are planned and executed effectively (site readiness, equipment staging, delivery scheduling, installation sequencing)
• Conduct project close-out activities, including punch-list resolution, documentation handover, and lessons-learned reviews
• Support knowledge sharing and standardization of best practices across plants/sites
• Maintain a strong focus on health, safety, and environmental (HSE) compliance throughout all project phases
• Ensure all projects comply with best-practice project management standards and applicable regulatory/technical requirements

What will make you successful?
• Undergraduate degree in technical discipline; and 5 years hands on experience with a progressive organization working with projects; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Relevant experience in manufacturing, industrial, or process operations; project, maintenance, or engineering experience preferred
• Solid working knowledge of project management theory and practice (scope, schedule, budget, risk, procurement)
• Proficiency with project management software and tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet, or equivalent)
• Strong technical writing and documentation skills (scopes of work, specifications, status reports)
• Proactive HSE mindset and commitment to safety-first execution
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills; ability to work across multiple functions and with external vendors/contractors
• Structured, organized, and detail-oriented work approach
• Willingness to travel 30-50% depending on project and work onsite as needed during execution phases
• Fluency in English required; additional languages are a plus.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States
IND123 PEL123
Equal opportunities
Hydro in North America is an Equal Opportunity Employer where all phases of employment are based strictly upon the qualifications of the individual as related to the work requirements of the position. This policy is applied without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, marital status or any other category protected by law. We strive to provide equal opportunities for all to contribute and succeed with us. Apply before: 08/14/2026.
As part of our recruitment process, we may use job-related assessments in selected roles. These tools help us better understand work-related strengths and support a fair and consistent hiring process. Any assessment results are reviewed together with your experience, qualifications, and interviews, and are never used as the sole basis for hiring decisions.
If you need an accommodation in order to complete the application, please contact Hydro Recruiting via email at recruiting.north.america@hydro.com
Possible work locations
Why Hydro?
Are you looking to make a real impact? For over a century, our people have been the driving force in solving some of the world's most pressing issues - and we hope you'll join us in solving the next century's. Whether you're working to close the loop at one of our recycling facilities or ensuring efficient renewable energy processes to decarbonize aluminium production, your contributions make an impact in our shared purpose of propelling our industries and the world into a greener future.
Why Hydro?
Are you looking to make a real impact? For over a century, our people have been the driving force in solving some of the world's most pressing issues - and we hope you'll join us in solving the next century's. Whether you're working to close the loop at one of our recycling facilities or ensuring efficient renewable energy processes to decarbonize aluminium production, your contributions make an impact in our shared purpose of propelling our industries and the world into a greener future.
A job where you make a difference
A key part of succeeding in this mission involves encouraging a collegial environment where our differences are acknowledged as our greatest competitive advantage.
Your diverse perspective makes us stronger. Our global diversity, inclusion and belonging program enables us to cultivate a high-performing and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued.
Your career journey is unique. We strive to provide you with the support needed to achieve your full potential. With our global reach, inclusive culture, and cutting-edge technology you'll have the opportunity to build a career that aligns with your strengths and passions.
Join our global community of over 30,000 people with a presence in 40 countries and united by the values of Care, Courage and Collaboration. At Hydro, you have the chance to make a difference in the industries that matter. Explore our world and the heart of our operations.
A job where you make a difference
A key part of succeeding in this mission involves encouraging a collegial environment where our differences are acknowledged as our greatest competitive advantage. Your diverse perspective makes us stronger. Our global diversity, inclusion and belonging program enables us to cultivate a high-performing and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued.
Your career journey is unique. We strive to provide you with the support needed to achieve your full potential. With our global reach, inclusive culture, and cutting-edge technology you'll have the opportunity to build a career that aligns with your strengths and passions. Join our global community of over 30,000 people with a presence in 40 countries and united by the values of Care, Courage and Collaboration. At Hydro, you have the chance to make a difference in the industries that matter. Explore our world and the heart of our operations.
A job where you make a difference
A key part of succeeding in this mission involves encouraging a collegial environment where our differences are acknowledged as our greatest competitive advantage. Your diverse perspective makes us stronger. Our global diversity, inclusion and belonging program enables us to cultivate a high-performing and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued.
Your career journey is unique. We strive to provide you with the support needed to achieve your full potential. With our global reach, inclusive culture, and cutting-edge technology you'll have the opportunity to build a career that aligns with your strengths and passions. Join our global community of over 30,000 people with a presence in 40 countries and united by the values of Care, Courage and Collaboration. At Hydro, you have the chance to make a difference in the industries that matter. Explore our world and the heart of our operations.
About Hydro

• Hydro is a leading aluminium and renewable energy company committed to a sustainable future
• Founded: 1905
• Number of employees: 32,000
• Company presence in around 40 countries worldwide
• President and CEO: Eivind Kallevik

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Hydro's talent community
Can't find the right job? Be the first one to learn about new job opportunities that might be a perfect fit for you.
Join Today