Mechanical Design & Project Engineer

Position Summary

The Mechanical Design & Project Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing mechanical equipment, machinery, tooling, fixtures, replacement parts, and manufacturing solutions. This role works closely with Engineering, Production, Maintenance, Sales, and other departments to improve manufacturing processes, support equipment projects, and develop practical engineering solutions that enhance safety, quality, throughput, and operational efficiency.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on, results-oriented problem solver with strong mechanical design capabilities and the ability to manage projects from initial concept through fabrication, installation, and implementation. This position requires the ability to translate engineering concepts into functional designs while balancing technical requirements, manufacturing capabilities, project timelines, and budget considerations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Mechanical Design & Engineering

Design and develop machinery, equipment, mechanical components, tooling, fixtures, and assemblies using 3D CAD software.
Create detailed 3D models, 2D engineering drawings, assembly drawings, bills of materials, and technical documentation to support fabrication, manufacturing, and installation.
Review existing designs, engineering specifications, sketches, and technical data to identify opportunities for improvements and develop new or modified solutions.
Ensure designs meet engineering standards, customer requirements, quality expectations, and applicable specifications.
Perform engineering calculations and utilize modeling tools to evaluate, test, and verify design functionality.
Develop installation, operation, and maintenance procedures, manuals, and technical instructions.
Maintain accurate engineering records, drawings, and equipment documentation, including modifications and field changes.

Project Management & Implementation

Manage engineering projects from initial concept and design through fabrication, assembly, testing, installation, and final implementation.
Establish project objectives, schedules, milestones, budgets, and resource requirements.
Monitor project progress, communicate updates to stakeholders, and ensure deliverables are completed accurately, on schedule, and within budget.
Coordinate with internal departments and external vendors to obtain technical information, quotations, materials, and equipment necessary for project execution.
Prepare purchase requisitions and technical specifications for equipment, components, structural supports, and other engineered products.
Provide hands-on technical support during equipment fabrication, assembly, troubleshooting, and installation.

Manufacturing & Organizational Support

Collaborate with Engineering, Production, Maintenance, Sales, Research & Development, and Customer Service teams to identify operational challenges and develop effective engineering solutions.
Support manufacturing operations by providing technical guidance on materials, machining, fabrication methods, equipment capabilities, and process limitations.
Identify opportunities to improve production efficiency, equipment reliability, workplace safety, and product quality.
Serve as a technical liaison between engineering design and manufacturing operations to ensure designs are practical and manufacturable.
Support engineering standards, procedures, documentation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Provide engineering support to alternate production facilities and customer locations as needed.

Professional Development & Other Responsibilities

Maintain current knowledge of engineering practices, design software, manufacturing technologies, materials, and industry standards.
Participate in ongoing technical training and professional development.
Demonstrate strong ownership, organization, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline; equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience may be considered.
Experience in mechanical design, equipment development, manufacturing engineering, or project engineering preferred.

Technical Skills

Proficiency with 3D CAD and solid modeling software. Experience with SolidWorks or Autodesk Inventor/Vault preferred; candidates with experience using other comparable CAD platforms may be considered.
Working knowledge of AutoCAD preferred.
Ability to create detailed 3D models, 2D engineering drawings, manufacturing drawings, and bills of materials.
Experience with mechanical systems, equipment design, machining, fabrication, materials, and manufacturing processes.
Familiarity with ERP systems, engineering documentation, and project management practices preferred.
Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications.

Additional Qualifications

Strong mechanical aptitude and the ability to translate engineering concepts into practical manufacturing applications.
Strong analytical, mathematical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, engineering documents, and mathematical models.
Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate technical information across departments and with outside vendors or customers.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.
Self-motivated with a proactive approach to continuous improvement and professional development.