Project Engineer

Overview

Amalia A. is a Project Engineer with a Mechanical Engineering degree from Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Malaysia. Since graduating in 2015, PETRONAS offered the opportunity to launch her career as a Junior Project Engineer. Almost a decade later, she has progressed to senior roles, coaching juniors and overseeing her project team, and remains deeply passionate about her work. She has led high-impact, large-scale projects that have enhanced plant operations and production. She finds projects exciting because each one is unique and presents new challenges and opportunities, leading to continual learning and a rewarding sense of completion.

What is the nature of your role and its responsibilities?

As a Project Engineer, I lead and manage facilities improvement projects at one of the leading petrochemical plants in Malaysia. My roles involve planning, coordinating and executing our projects. Some days, I’d be in corporate wear meeting stakeholders and writing reports. Other days, I’d be in coverall and safety helmet addressing issues at site with my contractors.

What led you to follow this career path?

Growing up, I enjoyed building Lego blocks, solving puzzles and understanding how things work. I excelled at Maths and Physics, so my parents suggested Engineering. Although engineering (especially Mechanical Engineering) was traditionally associated with men at the time, I chose this path and continue to enjoy applying design and problem-solving skills to real-world systems.

What qualification(s) or training did you complete?

Bachelor Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Throughout my career I have enrolled in various project management trainings including cost, time, quality, HSE, risk, procurement, stakeholder, integration, and resource management. I am currently pursuing PMI Project Management Professional (PMP) and AACE Certified Cost Professional (CCP).

How are your qualification(s) or training useful in your everyday job?

These certificates underpin analytical thinking and problem-solving. They help me break down complex problems, think critically, and engage with colleagues to exchange ideas and experience. They support ongoing growth and the ability to deliver effective project outcomes.

What does an average working day look like for you?

I work an 8-5 job. Living in a suburban area supports a balanced lifestyle. I typically manage a routine that includes time at home with my husband and two cats, a calm commute, and time for family or hobbies after work. I aim to leave by 5 : 30 PM to maintain work-life balance.

What aspect of your role do you most enjoy?

Seeing projects completed successfully. The sense of pride, gratitude, and reward from teamwork, where everyone contributes their best and milestones are celebrated, helps boost team morale and motivation for future work.

What aspect of your job do you find most challenging?

Being a woman in the oil and gas engineering field can present additional challenges as society may expect men to fill these roles. I have learned to equip myself with knowledge to prove my capabilities, manage tough conversations, and pursue professional certifications. This challenge motivates me to continue advancing and to advocate for women’s representation in the field.

What would be your top piece of advice for anyone wanting to become a project engineer?

Pursue it. The engineering and oil & gas industries need more women, and I am committed to supporting and mentoring the next generation of women engineers and helping juniors join this journey.

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