Project Engineer - Custom Heavy Equipment / Specialty Vehicles

Job Title: Project Engineer – Custom Heavy Equipment / Specialty Vehicles

Location: Kansas City MO 64147

FTE/Perm

US citizens and Green Card Holders and those authorized to work in the US are encouraged to apply. We are unable to sponsor  H1b candidates at this time

  Job Description

The Project Engineer is a key technical leader responsible for the design, development, and successful execution of custom heavy-duty equipment projects from concept through production. The role combines mechanical engineering, systems integration, project management, and cross-functional leadership to deliver innovative, reliable, and regulatory-compliant specialty vehicles. Projects include aircraft refuelers, refined fuel tank trucks, crane trucks, railroad maintenance vehicles, and other custom service equipment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the engineering and execution of custom vehicle projects from concept through production.
• Design complete mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems for specialty vehicles.
• Perform component selection, system sizing, flow, pressure, and performance analysis.
• Develop structural weldments and fabricated assemblies using sound engineering principles and FEA where appropriate.
• Create and maintain high-quality 3D CAD models, manufacturing drawings, and bills of material.
• Establish chassis specifications, weight distribution, and packaging to ensure safe, functional designs.
• Ensure designs comply with applicable regulations and industry standards including DOT, FRA, NFPA, ATA, JIG, CSA, and customer requirements.
• Research emerging technologies and drive continuous product improvement.
• Manage project schedules, technical risks, design reviews, and engineering deliverables.
• Collaborate with Sales, Purchasing, Production, Service, Suppliers, and Customers throughout each project.
• Provide technical support to manufacturing, troubleshoot production issues, and implement design improvements.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to engineering standards, processes, and best practices.

Qualifications

• Hands-on mechanical aptitude with the ability to translate concepts into manufacturable designs.
• Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) and engineering documentation.
• Working knowledge of hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and structural design principles.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively in a team environment.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline, or equivalent combination of education and practical experience.
• 3-5 years of engineering experience, preferred in heavy equipment, mobile equipment, automotive, truck, agricultural, industrial machinery, or similar industries.
• Experience with project management, manufacturing support, and customer-facing engineering is preferred.

A reasonable, good faith The anticipated base pay compensation range for this position is $95K to $100K

Benefits: Full time employees are eligible For Health Insurance, Paid Time Off, and 401k match

* The pay range listed above reflects the expected starting salary /Pay rate for this role. This range may be adjusted based on market conditions, location, and other relevant factors. The Company will determine the final starting salary/Pay rate in consultation with the selected candidate(s), in full compliance with applicable laws