James Shipp
Chicago
Summary
Proficient Project Engineer with 8 years of experience driving the completion of over 50+ projects. Expertise in overseeing technical teams and ensuring projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and in strict accordance with specifications. Detail-oriented, organized, and meticulous, consistently thriving in fast-paced environments to meet tight deadlines. Dedicated team player committed to contributing to the overall success of the organization.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Project Engineer / Manufacturing Engineer
Dart Container
11.2024 - Current
- Lead capital engineering projects focused on manufacturing optimization & Automation, including redesign of plant-wide sortation conveyor systems to improve quality, reduce product damage, and lower operating costs.
- Develop technical solutions and engineering scopes aligned with operational needs, safety standards, and long-term asset performance.
- Partner with operations, maintenance, safety, and external vendors to ensure project execution meets schedule, quality, and compliance requirements.
- Directed safety initiatives by updating Lockout/Tagout documentation for the Thermoforming Department, ensuring adherence to regulatory and corporate standards.
- Implemented design improvements to robotic handling systems, increasing throughput and improving equipment reliability.
Project Engineer – Automation Technology
Dart Container
04.2022 - 11.2024
- Served as Subject Matter Expert for automation and robotic systems supporting capital investment projects across multiple manufacturing facilities.
- Supported feasibility studies, equipment selection, and technical development for large-scale automation initiatives, including AGV implementation.
- Coordinated capital project schedules, installation activities, and technical integration while ensuring alignment with engineering standards and operational requirements.
- Collaborated with cross-functional stakeholders (engineering, operations, vendors, leadership) to define project objectives, manage risks, and deliver results.
- Supported rollout of standardized automation practices to harmonize assets and share best practices across sites.
Account Executive / Project Manager
Stafford-Smith
07.2018 - 08.2021
- Planned and executed equipment installation projects from concept through commissioning, managing budgets, timelines, and customer expectations.
- Developed equipment layouts and technical drawings using AutoCAD to support permitting, construction, and regulatory approval.
- Led and supervised multi-disciplinary installation teams (up to 10 personnel), ensuring quality, safety, and on-time delivery.
- Improved operational efficiency by designing optimized layouts aligned with client workflow and productivity goals.
Project Manager / Safety Supervisor
Stafford-Smith
06.2017 - 07.2018
- Supported capital equipment delivery and installation for large-scale projects, including the Milwaukee Bucks Stadium food service buildout.
- Tracked equipment specifications, verified compliance with project requirements, and coordinated with internal and external stakeholders.
- Ensured adherence to safety, quality, and installation standards throughout project execution.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Electrical Engineering
Milwaukee School of Engineer
Milwaukee12-2022
Skills
- Capital Project Planning & Execution
- Engineering Feasibility & Technical Development
- Budget Development & Cash Flow Forecasting
- Manufacturing & Automation Systems
- Equipment & Process Optimization
- Vendor & Contractor Management
- Safety, Quality & Regulatory Compliance (OSHA, LOTO)
- Continuous Improvement & Productivity Initiatives
- AutoCAD Microsoft Office 365 Technical Documentation
- SAP
- Scheduling and planning
Certification
OSHA 30
Timeline
Project Engineer / Manufacturing Engineer
Dart Container
11.2024 - Current
Project Engineer – Automation Technology
Dart Container
04.2022 - 11.2024
Account Executive / Project Manager
Stafford-Smith
07.2018 - 08.2021
Project Manager / Safety Supervisor
Stafford-Smith
06.2017 - 07.2018
Bachelor of Science - Electrical Engineering
Milwaukee School of Engineer