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Project Engineer I Jobs in State College, PA (NOW HIRING)

Collaboration with sales, R&D, and service teams to ensure high quality outcomes for all projects. From an Application Engineer: I enjoy that it's usually something new every day, because although we ...

... engineers, clients, contractors, and regulatory agencies to deliver high-quality environmental ... I ESA Standards. * Experience managing project budgets, schedules, and client relationships.

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Project Engineer I information

See State College, PA salary details

$44K

$88.6K

$133K

How much do project engineer i jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for project engineer i in State College, PA is $88,649.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,400.00 and $101,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Project Engineer I do?

A Project Engineer I is an entry-level engineering professional who assists in planning, coordinating, and executing engineering projects within an organization. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers or project managers, helping to prepare project documentation, monitor progress, and ensure that technical standards and deadlines are met. Their role may involve collaborating with different teams, troubleshooting issues, and supporting project delivery from start to finish. This position is ideal for recent engineering graduates looking to gain practical experience and grow their project management skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Project Engineer I, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Project Engineer I, you typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering, strong problem-solving abilities, and a foundational understanding of project management principles. Familiarity with CAD software, project scheduling tools like Microsoft Project, and basic knowledge of industry codes or standards is often required. Effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and manage changing project requirements. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure projects are completed efficiently, safely, and within scope and budget.

What are some common challenges faced by a Project Engineer I, and how can they be addressed?

As a Project Engineer I, one common challenge is balancing multiple tasks and deadlines while ensuring project specifications are met. You may also encounter difficulties coordinating with cross-functional teams or managing changes in project scope. To address these challenges, effective time management, clear communication, and proactive problem-solving are essential. Seeking guidance from senior engineers and utilizing project management tools can also help you stay organized and meet expectations.

What is the difference between Project Engineer I vs Project Engineer II?

AspectProject Engineer IProject Engineer II
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certifications preferredBachelor's degree; often more certifications or experience required
Work EnvironmentEntry-level role, supporting project teams, on-site and officeMore independent responsibilities, overseeing parts of projects
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in construction, manufacturing, civil engineeringSimilar industries, with increased scope and responsibility

The main difference between Project Engineer I and Project Engineer II lies in experience and responsibility. Project Engineer I is an entry-level position focused on supporting project tasks, while Project Engineer II involves more independent work and oversight. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the II typically demands more experience or certifications. Understanding these distinctions helps candidates and employers align expectations and career progression.

What are popular job titles related to Project Engineer I jobs in State College, PA?

For Project Engineer I jobs in State College, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Project Engineer I jobs in State College, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Project Engineer I jobs in State College, PA are:

What cities near State College, PA are hiring for Project Engineer I jobs?

Cities near State College, PA with the most Project Engineer I job openings:

Infographic showing various Project Engineer I job openings in State College, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,649 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Project Engineer I

Lewistown, PA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Founded over 35 years ago, First Quality is a family-owned company that has grown from a small business in McElhattan, Pennsylvania into a group of companies, employing over 5,000 team members,while maintaining ourfamilyvalues and entrepreneurialspirit. With corporate offices in New York and Pennsylvania and 8 manufacturing campuses across the U.S. and Canada, the companies within the First Qualitygroup produce high-quality personal care and household products forlargeretailers and healthcareorganizations. Our personal care and household product portfolio includes baby diapers, wipes, feminine pads, paper towels, bath tissue, adult incontinence products, laundry detergents, fabric finishers, and dishwash solutions.In addition, we manufacture certain raw materials and components used in the manufacturing of these products, including flexible print and packaging solutions.

Guided by our values of humility, unity, and integrity, we leverage advanced technology and innovation to drive growth and create new opportunities. At First Quality, you'll find a collaborative environment focused on continuous learning, professional development, and our mission to Make Things Better.

We are seeking an experienced Project Engineer for our First Quality facility located in Lewistown, PA. This position is responsible for the specification, selection, purchase, installation, and startup support of major capital projects, to improve efficiencies, quality or expand the manufacturing operation.

Principal Accountabilities/ Responsibilities:

  • Prepares timelines, schedules, and coordinates multiple disciplines to meet required schedules.

  • Prepares equipment/line proposals, installations, startups, and validations.

  • Analyzes trend data, troubleshoots process problems.

  • Observes all safety rules and uses the proper safety equipment at all times.

  • Performs other duties as necessary when directed to do so.

  • Follows necessary GMP, FDA, and ISO regulations.

  • Standard knowledge of high speed manufacturing equipment.

  • Standard knowledge in material handling concepts, material flow concepts, and plant layout.

  • Standard knowledge of cost accounting principles.

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.

  • Ability to identify machine, material and/or process improvements and implementation solutions.

  • Ability to teach/train operating personnel and write procedures/manuals.

Education and experience requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field.

  • Minimum five years experience in manufacturing environment.

  • High speed, high volume production machinery experience is preferred.

  • Maintenance background preferred.

What We Offer You

We believe that by continuously improving the quality of our benefits, we can help to raise the quality of life for our team members and their families. At First Quality you will receive:

  • Competitive base salary and bonus opportunities

  • Paid time off (three-week minimum)

  • Medical, dental and vision starting day one

  • 401(k) with employer match

  • Paid parental leave

  • Child and family care assistance (dependent care FSA with employer match up to $2500)

  • Bundle of joy benefit (years' worth of free diapers to all team members with a new baby)

  • Tuition assistance

  • Wellness program with savings of up to $4,000 per year on insurance premiums

  • ...and more!

First Quality is committed to protecting information under the care of First Quality Enterprises commensurate with leading industry standards and applicable regulations. As such, First Quality provides at least annual training regarding data privacy and security to employees who, as a result of their role specifications, may come in to contact with sensitive data.

First Quality is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identification, or protected Veteran status.