JOB SUMMARY
The Senior Mechanical Engineer serves as a technical leader in the design and manufacture of automated industrial machinery. The role independently leads complex machine-design assignments from concept through commissioning, including modeling, analysis, detailing, design verification, and Bills of Materials (BOMs), for equipment used across industries such as aerospace, appliances, automotive and transportation, electronics, firearms, medical, metal processing, mining, and farming. Working closely with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams, the Senior Mechanical Engineer develops and validates solutions that meet demanding performance, safety, cost, schedule, manufacturability, and quality requirements. The role provides technical guidance, conducts design reviews, resolves high-impact engineering issues, mentors less-experienced engineers and designers, and promotes consistent application of engineering standards and company processes. The role requires broad knowledge of machine operation, materials, manufacturing processes, design for assembly and manufacturing, and effective oral, written, and interpersonal communication. The role requires the following knowledge, skills, and abilities.
MAJOR AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead complex automation-machine designs from concept through installation and commissioning based on customer specifications and "as sold" proposals
- Develop machine concepts, define design approaches, and independently perform and verify engineering calculations, analyses, and technical trade studies
- Create, review, approve, and maintain design and arrangement drawings, detail and manufacturing drawings, and Bills of Materials for fabrication and machining
- Create and review piping and instrumentation diagrams for pneumatic, hydraulic, and lubrication systems
- Lead formal design reviews and evaluate designs for functionality, performance, safety, reliability, serviceability, manufacturability, and compliance with applicable standards
- Identify and mitigate technical risk, resolve complex design issues, and make sound engineering decisions with limited supervision
- Plan and coordinate mechanical engineering work to meet project scope, schedule, budgeted hours, and material-cost targets
- Provide technical direction and mentoring to mechanical engineers, designers, and drafters; review work for technical accuracy, completeness, and adherence to standards
- Serve as a primary mechanical technical resource for project management, manufacturing, assembly, test, quality, purchasing, service, customers, and suppliers
- Create and maintain project documentation, including manuals, spare-parts lists, sequences of operation, lockout/tagout diagrams, calculations, design records, and lessons learned
- Lead mechanical resolution of nonconformances, concessions, deviations, field issues, and design changes, including root-cause analysis and corrective action
- Support assembly, machine setup, testing, troubleshooting, installation, and commissioning as required
- Collaborate with purchasing and suppliers on component selection, technical requirements, manufacturability, quotations, and supplier questions
- Develop and improve engineering standards, design practices, reusable solutions, and department processes
- Lead or contribute to research and development activities and apply lessons learned to future products and projects
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology
- 8+ years of progressively responsible experience in mechanical design and engineering, including ownership of complex machinery or automation projects
- Advanced proficiency in 3D CAD software, with SolidWorks preferred, and the ability to establish and enforce sound modeling and drawing practices
- Advanced understanding and practical application of mechanical engineering principles, including statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, machine design, and materials science
- Demonstrated expertise in manufacturing processes, including machining, welding, fabrication, and design for manufacturing and assembly (DFMA)
- Advanced knowledge of component design, materials, heat treatment, fits and finishes, GD&T, tolerance analysis, and weld sizing
- Demonstrated ability to perform, interpret, and independently verify engineering calculations and analyses
- Proven success leading design reviews, resolving complex technical problems, and making risk-informed engineering decisions with minimal supervision
- Demonstrated ability to mentor engineers and designers, provide constructive technical feedback, and influence outcomes without direct supervisory authority
- Strong project planning and execution skills, including management of scope, technical risk, schedule, budgeted hours, and material cost
- Excellent technical writing, presentation, communication, organization, and interpersonal skills
- Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional and global teams, customers, suppliers, peers, and all levels of management
- Ability to adapt to changing priorities while maintaining urgency, sound judgment, and accountability for commitments
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office products
- Act consistently with our core values: Act with Integrity, Be the Solution, and Crossing Boundaries
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience leading the design or commissioning of resistance welders, automation equipment, steel-mill processing equipment, or comparable custom industrial machinery
- Working knowledge of applicable machine-safety requirements and risk-assessment practices, including
ANSI B11.19
- Experience applying Lean or Six Sigma methods to engineering and manufacturing improvements
- Experience with FEA and validation of analytical results, with the SolidWorks Simulation package preferred
- Professional Engineer licensure, relevant technical certification, or equivalent advanced technical development
Essential Physical Functions Needed:
- Primarily work sitting at a computer station
- Regular/Frequent standing, walking, kneeling, and squatting
- Occasional bending, climbing, and crawling
- Exposure to fumes, noise, and changes in temperature
- May require hands on work with basic hand tools
- Able to lift, carry, and maneuver objects weighing up to 25 pounds
- Ability to travel occasionally for site visits and meetings (minimum travel)
Equipment Used:
- Computer
- Calibers
- Micrometers
- SolidWorks
- AutoCAD
- MS Office products
Benefits:
401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Professional development assistance Referral program Retirement plan Vision insurance
Work Location:
In person