Mechanical Engineer - Product Design and Validation

Job Description

Job Description

RFA Engineering ( is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an entry-mid level experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.

This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

Mechanical Engineer – Product Design and Validation

The selected candidate will support the development, testing, validation, and continuous improvement of large off-highway construction and mining equipment. Projects may involve machine systems, controls, electrical and hydraulic systems, autonomous technologies, and next-generation equipment platforms. This role provides opportunities to work directly with engineers, technicians, and machine operators in both shop and field environments while supporting product development and validation activities.

Candidates with backgrounds in heavy equipment, mining, construction, agriculture, automotive, military vehicles, product validation, testing, or other hands-on mechanical industries are strongly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Support the development, testing, and validation of large off-highway construction and mining equipment.
• Plan and execute machine-level testing activities to evaluate product performance, functionality, and reliability.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and controls-related issues on prototype and production equipment.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret test data to support engineering decisions and product improvements.
• Collaborate with engineers, technicians, operators, manufacturing personnel, and suppliers to solve technical challenges.
• Support new product introduction, continuous product improvement, and quality initiatives.
• Create and maintain engineering documentation, test reports, and technical summaries.
• Participate in field, shop, and proving-ground activities while working directly with heavy equipment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or Agricultural Engineering or related degree
• Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude demonstrated through work experience or hobbies
• Excellent communication both written and verbal
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments
• Strong analytical, problem solving and troubleshooting skills
• Ability to thrive in a team environment

• Ability to travel (less than 10% of time).

Desired Attributes

• Experience with product development, machine testing, product validation, or new product introduction activities.
• Experience with off-highway construction, mining, agricultural, industrial, military, or automotive equipment.
• Experience troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, or controls-related systems.
• Experience working with machine controls, CAN communications, instrumentation, or data acquisition systems.
• Experience using engineering analysis and reporting tools such as Excel, Power BI, Tableau, MATLAB, CANalyzer, CANape, or similar software.
• Experience with APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning).
• Experience in 3-D Modeling Software; Creo (Pro/Engineer) experience preferred.
• Previous experience with Teamcenter or other PDM software.
• Experience supporting prototype builds, field testing, validation, or new product development programs.
• Experience working with cross-functional engineering and manufacturing teams.
• Desire to work in an engineering environment focused on robust, reliable, and cost-effective product development.

Pay Range: $65,000-$95,000 - Commensurate with Experience:

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.

Competitive Benefits

• Health and Dental Insurance
• Health Savings Account
• TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
• Vision Insurance
• Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
• Company Paid Long-Term Disability
• Supplemental Short-Term Disability
• Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
• Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
• Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Bereavement Leave
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
• Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly