Mechanical Design Engineer

Jessee Equipment Manufacturing is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, and improve processing equipment for the nut, fruit, and food industries. You will participate in the mechanical design of new machines from concept through prototype, validation, and production handoff, with heavy use of SolidWorks for complex assemblies and machinery design. This is a hands-on role for an engineer who enjoys turning customer requirements into robust, food-safe production equipment. Key Responsibilities Design and develop mechanical components, assemblies, and complete machines for nut, fruit, and food processing applications. Produce detailed SolidWorks 3D models, assemblies, and 2D manufacturing drawings to

ANSI/ISO

standards, including GD&T, BOMs, and weldments. Collaborate on projects from concept through prototyping, FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing), installation, and customer support.

Perform engineering calculations:

structural analysis, drive sizing, bearing/shaft selection, pneumatic and hydraulic systems, and material flow. Specify components such as motors, gearboxes, conveyors, vibratory systems, pneumatic actuators, and sensors. Collaborate with electrical, controls, fabrication, and assembly teams to integrate mechanical designs with PLC-driven automation. Ensure designs meet food-safety standards (FDA, USDA, 3-A Sanitary, EHEDG where applicable) and relevant machinery safety codes (OSHA, CE/ANSI B11). Troubleshoot equipment issues in-house and on customer sites; drive continuous improvement and design-for-manufacturability (DFM) initiatives. Maintain accurate engineering documentation, revision control, and change management. Support the sales and project management teams with technical proposals, layouts, and cost estimates. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Electromechanical Engineering (or equivalent). Minimum 5 years of professional experience designing equipment for the nut, fruit, or food processing industries. Heavy, demonstrated expertise in SolidWorks — large assemblies, weldments, sheet metal, and complex machinery design. Strong knowledge of food-grade materials (stainless steel grades, food-safe plastics) and sanitary design principles. Proficiency with engineering calculations for power transmission, structural integrity, and mechanical sizing.

Solid understanding of manufacturing processes:

machining, sheet metal fabrication, welding, and assembly. Ability to read, generate, and interpret mechanical drawings with GD&T. Excellent problem-solving skills and a hands-on, shop-floor mindset. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Preferred Qualifications Experience with sorting, grading, drying, roasting, cracking, shelling, washing, or packaging equipment. Familiarity with PDM/PLM systems (e.g., SolidWorks PDM). Working knowledge of FEA and motion simulation (SolidWorks Simulation or equivalent). Exposure to PLC-controlled equipment and integration with

HMI / SCADA

systems. Experience with CE certification and machinery directive compliance. Project management experience leading cross-functional engineering teams. Willingness to travel up to [2%] to customer sites and trade shows.

Pay:

$70,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance

Work Location:

In person