Mechanical Equipment Design Engineer

Mechanical Equipment Design Engineer Location: Chesterfield, VA Job Type: Direct Hire Starting Salary: From $95,000/year (higher compensation available based on experience) Position Overview We are seeking a Mechanical Equipment Design Engineer to develop and improve heavy mechanical equipment used in lifting, maintenance, and emergency response applications. This role is responsible for designing new products, enhancing existing equipment, and supporting projects throughout the entire product lifecycle—from concept and engineering through manufacturing, testing, field implementation, and ongoing improvements. This position is ideal for an engineer who enjoys hands-on problem solving, working with cross-functional teams, and developing equipment that performs in demanding industrial environments. \n Schedule 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off) Based in Chesterfield, VA Occasional travel to manufacturing facilities, customer locations, vendor sites, and field operations May be required to assist with emergency support outside normal business hours when necessary Responsibilities Mechanical Design & Engineering Design new mechanical equipment and modify existing systems to improve performance and functionality. Develop practical engineering solutions using CAD modeling, engineering calculations, reverse engineering, and redesign techniques. Validate designs through Finite Element Analysis (FEA), prototyping, testing, and field evaluations. Improve product reliability, manufacturability, serviceability, safety, and overall cost efficiency. Maintain engineering documentation including drawings, bills of materials, calculations, and design records. Ensure designs comply with applicable engineering standards, customer specifications, and safety requirements. Project Support Manage engineering projects from initial concept through manufacturing, testing, implementation, and ongoing product support. Support equipment rebuilds, upgrades, inspections, repair planning, testing, and commissioning. Work closely with manufacturing, operations, suppliers, and leadership to support production schedules and successful project completion. Provide technical assistance for troubleshooting, inspections, customer support, and field service activities. Help ensure equipment is manufactured according to engineering requirements and quality standards. Continuous Improvement Apply sound engineering principles to solve complex technical problems. Support product standardization and quality improvement initiatives. Communicate effectively with internal teams, suppliers, and customers. Balance multiple projects while adapting to changing priorities. Stay current with engineering practices, equipment technology, and industry standards. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline. Experience using SolidWorks or similar parametric CAD software. Working knowledge of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and the ability to verify results using engineering calculations. Understanding of mechanical design, manufacturing processes, and engineering documentation. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams. Strong time management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects. Commitment to workplace safety and engineering quality. Valid driver's license. Willingness to travel approximately 10% for inspections, customer support, and field activities. Preferred Qualifications Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) certification. CSWA or CSWP SolidWorks certification. Experience designing heavy equipment, cranes, mobile equipment, or industrial machinery. Experience working with hydraulic and electrical systems. Experience supporting products through manufacturing, testing, and field deployment. Familiarity with engineering and safety standards such as OSHA, ASME, AWS, AAR, or similar. Physical Requirements Ability to sit, stand, walk, and communicate throughout the workday. Ability to climb onto equipment during inspections, testing, and troubleshooting. Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds. Ability to work safely in both office and industrial environments. Ability to work extended hours or respond to emergency situations when business needs require. \n