Mechanical Engineer I

Join us as we empower the world to work out, creating healthier lives together. Are you a Mechanical Engineer, passionate about fitness, and looking to gain hands‑on experience and grow your skills? Life Fitness / Hammer Strength is looking for a Mechanical Engineer I to join our team. You'll be part of a team responsible for the design, analysis, and release of components and assemblies used in industry‑leading cardio and strength fitness equipment, from concept through production launch. This is a hybrid role based out of either our manufacturing facility in Owatonna, MN, or the Nieto‑Jones Innovation Center in Schaumburg, IL. M/F remote and T‑Th are in‑office collaboration days. Responsibilities Design and develop components and assemblies using SolidWorks CAD software Create 3D models, detailed drawings, and engineering documentation for manufacturing Support product development activities, including concept generation, prototyping, and design validation Collaborate with cross‑functional teams including Product Management, Manufacturing, Reliability, Purchasing, and suppliers Assist in developing product specifications, timelines, and test plans Support prototype builds, testing, and iterative design improvements Develop and release production Bills of Materials (BOMs) Help resolve design‑related issues for existing products in manufacturing and the field Travel up to approximately 20% to support supplier visits, prototyping, and production activities Follow Mechanical Engineering procedures and contribute to continuous improvement efforts Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience) 0–3 years of experience (entry‑level candidates encouraged to apply) Strong proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) Understanding of 2D drawing creation and drafting standards Basic knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) Knowledge of plastic part design, including injection molding, part design for manufacturability (DFM), draft, ribs, bosses, and wall thickness considerations Knowledge of metal part design, including sheet metal, weldments, castings, machined components and aluminum extrusions Exposure to engineering analysis methods (FEA or hand calculations preferred) Strong willingness to learn and develop technical skills in product design and manufacturing Effective communication and collaboration skills Strong attention to detail and problem‑solving capability Preferred Skills (Not Required) Internship, co‑op, or academic project experience involving CAD design Exposure to plastic component design or consumer product development Familiarity with PLM systems (e.g., Teamcenter) Hands‑on experience with prototyping or fabrication Basic knowledge of Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) principles Benefits Competitive salary range: $66,500 – $95,000 annually (U.S. applicants) 401(k) savings plan with 4% employer match Medical, dental and vision insurance Parental, medical and military leaves of absence Paid time off including 12 paid holidays, paid vacation days beginning at 13 days annually, paid sick leave Company paid short‑term disability and optional long‑term disability Health savings account and health care & dependent care reimbursement accounts Employee and dependent life insurance and supplemental life & AD&D insurance Hospital indemnity; identity protection, legal services, adoption assistance, tuition assistance, commuter benefits, employee discounts, employee assistance program with free counseling sessions EEO Statement Life Fitness / Hammer Strength is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. Life Fitness / Hammer Strength complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding employment, recruitment and hiring. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, disability, protected veteran status, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, and local laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr