Product Development Engineer

Product Development EngineerChalco, Nebraska, United States Job Openings Product Development EngineerAbout the JobHireNow Staffing is partnering with a highly stable manufacturing organization seeking a seasoned and technically strong Product Development Engineer to join its onsite engineering team in Chalco, Nebraska.This role is intended for an engineer who thrives in hands-on product innovation environments and has successfully driven mechanical product concepts from early design stages through validation and production release. The selected candidate will be expected to take ownership of projects, manage technical risk, and collaborate across departments to deliver engineered solutions that meet demanding performance and durability requirements.Candidates must demonstrate consistent employment history and professional progression. Frequent job changes or unstable career patterns will not be considered.Core ResponsibilitiesProduct Design & DevelopmentLead mechanical and electromechanical product development initiatives from concept through final validation.Translate customer specifications and performance requirements into engineered solutions.Develop and refine 3D models, assemblies, and technical drawings using professional CAD platforms.Perform engineering calculations related to stress, load, fatigue, and performance validation.Testing, Validation & Risk AssessmentPlan and execute qualification testing protocols to validate product performance.Conduct hands-on prototype assembly and lab testing.Identify design risks early in the development process and implement mitigation strategies.Support root cause investigations and corrective action initiatives when product issues arise.Cross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and commercial teams to ensure smooth product transitions.Evaluate material selection, fabrication processes, and assembly methods to optimize cost and performance.Provide technical documentation, engineering reports, and validation summaries.Interpret and apply relevant mechanical, electrical, and industry compliance standards.Continuous Improvement & Engineering SupportDrive engineering updates and design enhancements for existing products.Support continuous improvement initiatives tied to product reliability and manufacturability.Mentor junior engineers or technical staff as needed.Maintain organized engineering documentation and revision control.Required Qualifications (Non-Negotiable)Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent relevant engineering experience.Minimum of 3 years of stable, hands-on product development experience.Demonstrated experience in qualification testing, prototyping, and lab-based validation.Strong proficiency with 3D modeling software.Proven experience performing engineering calculations and design validation.Ability to read and interpret complex mechanical, electrical, and electronic drawings.Documented experience conducting product risk assessments and mitigation planning.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Ability to work 100% onsite in Chalco, Nebraska.Authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship.Preferred Qualifications (Strongly Emphasized)Background in automotive, industrial automation, medical device, electrical equipment, or engineered product manufacturing.Experience with integrated mechanical assemblies.Familiarity with performance simulation tools.Exposure to compliance-driven or regulated product environments.Experience supporting product transitions into production.Demonstrated ability to manage multiple engineering projects simultaneously.Disqualifying FactorsNo mechanical engineering degree or equivalent relevant experience.Purely theoretical design background with no hands-on validation or lab exposure.No experience in product development lifecycle ownership.No 3D modeling proficiency.Pattern of short-term employment or job instability.Unable or unwilling to work onsite in Chalco, Nebraska.HireNow Staffing DisclaimerHireNow Staffing is acting as a direct placement partner for this role. All candidate information is handled confidentially and evaluated against defined requirements. This job description outlines the general scope of responsibilities and qualifications. Duties may evolve based on client needs and business growth. Only candidates meeting the core qualifications will be considered for interview.