External Operations Manager Jobs in Moline, IL (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Project Manager - Mechanical Engineering with experience in HVAC systems design, project management, and client coordination to lead projects from pursuit through closeout. This role serves as the primary point of contact for clients and internal teams, managing mechanical engineering projects and mentoring emerging professionals on our team.

This position is for a hybrid or onsite role in our Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Bettendorf or Dubuque IA office.

• Lead mechanical engineering projects through pursuit, initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closeout
• Develop project management plans, work breakdown structures, and schedules
• Oversee project team performance and ensure quality deliverables

• Serve as primary point of contact for clients
• Support proposal development, scoping, and contract preparation
• Communicate with clients on budgets, schedules, and project updates
• Identify opportunities for additional services and project growth

• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and external partners
• Review technical work and ensure documentation quality
• Mentor junior staff and contribute to team development
• Collaborate with leadership on project strategy and delivery

• Monitor budgets, manage scope changes, and pursue amendments when needed
• Review and issue invoices; ensure timely client payment

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• 6+ years of project management or mechanical engineering experience
• Proven experience managing engineering projects, budgets, and schedules
• Strong knowledge of project management principles and best practices
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Teams)
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills

• Professional Engineer (PE) license in Iowa.
• Experience with HVAC systems, building systems, or industrial mechanical design
• Project management certification (PMP, PSMJ, EMI, or equivalent)
• Experience working with multidisciplinary engineering teams

At MSA, our people are our greatest asset. We believe in building strong teams, fostering collaboration, and creating an environment where employees can grow professionally while making meaningful contributions to the communities we serve.

You'll join a firm where your work matters - where your expertise, teamwork, and ideas help drive the success of projects and the organization as a whole.

The salary for this position ranges from $99,800 to $159,800 with higher compensation possible for candidates with significant experience and exceptional qualifications.

• Better Together - A collaborative work environment that promotes open doors, new ideas, and honest opinions.
• Multi-disciplinary Opportunities - As multi-talented people in a multi-disciplinary firm, we encourage employees to explore interests, seek new experiences, and apply their skills where they can make the greatest impact.
• We've Got Your Back - Support when you need it and independence when you don't.
• Commitment to DEIB - We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work and where diverse perspectives drive innovation.
• Passion & Purpose - We are passionate about what we do and proud of it.
• Communities of Practice - Our Communities of Practice bring together experts across disciplines to collaborate, share knowledge, and generate new ideas.

Eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - As a 100% employee-owned company, eligible employees receive company shares at no cost

• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Generous employer match that is immediately 100% vested

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance for employees and eligible dependents

• Paid Time Off - Minimum of 17 days in the first year

• Paid Holidays - 8 holidays annually

• Paid Parental Leave - 2 weeks for both parents, with additional paid leave for birth parents

• Employer-Paid Insurance - Life, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage

• Short-Term Incentive Program (STIP) - Annual performance-based bonus opportunity

MSA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

MSA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hr@msa-ps.com so we can assist you.