Mechanical Controls Development Engineer

Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you.

Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.

Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all?

Position Summary

The Mechanical & Controls Development Engineer supports the development of new products, manufacturing processes, and test methods within the Research & Development organization. This role works closely with product development, materials, manufacturing, and operations teams to design, build, evaluate, and improve equipment used in process development, prototype manufacturing, and pilot-scale production.

The successful candidate will apply mechanical and controls engineering principles to support product innovation, equipment development, process optimization, automation initiatives, and technology transfer to manufacturing facilities. This position provides an excellent opportunity for an early to mid-career engineer to gain experience across product development, advanced manufacturing, automation, and process engineering.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Product & Process Development

• Lead development and implementation of new manufacturing processes and technologies for emerging products.
• Plan and execute engineering trials, process validations, and experimental studies.
• Analyze process and performance data to optimize quality, efficiency, and manufacturability.
• Lead cross-functional design reviews to ensure successful product development and launch.
• Drive technology transfer from development to manufacturing, including process qualification and implementation.

Equipment Development

• Lead development of new manufacturing processes and technologies.
• Execute engineering trials, validations, and process qualification activities.
• Analyze data to improve quality, efficiency, and process performance.
• Lead cross-functional product development and design review activities.
• Drive technology transfer and manufacturing implementation of new products and processes.

Controls & Automation

• Lead development and optimization of PLC, HMI, motion control, and data acquisition systems.
• Integrate sensors, instrumentation, vision systems, and robotic technologies into development and manufacturing processes.
• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot machine control logic for process development and testing applications.
• Analyze and visualize process and test data to improve system performance and reliability.
• Lead equipment commissioning, controls validation, and startup activities.

Engineering Support

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support product, process, and manufacturing objectives.
• Lead root cause investigations and resolution of product and process performance issues.
• Drive capital projects and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop and maintain engineering standards, technical reports, and project documentation.
• Manage engineering changes and ensure accurate technical records.

Safety & Compliance

• Lead safe design, operation, and continuous improvement of laboratory, pilot, and development equipment.
• Conduct risk assessments and machine safety reviews to identify and mitigate hazards.
• Ensure compliance with engineering standards, company policies, and safety requirements.

Requirements and Preferred Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 6 to 10 years of engineering experience in a manufacturing, product development, process development, or industrial environment.
• Strong mechanical troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Basic understanding of industrial automation and control systems.
• Experience using engineering software and Microsoft Office products.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Preferred

• Experience with PLC programming and industrial control systems.
• Familiarity with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar automation platforms.
• Experience with CAD software and mechanical design.
• Exposure to machine vision, robotics, instrumentation, or data acquisition systems.
• Experience designing or supporting test equipment and prototype machinery.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, reliability methods, and statistical analysis techniques.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong technical curiosity and desire to learn.
• Hands-on approach to engineering and equipment development.
• Ability to balance laboratory, office, and shop-floor activities.
• Strong organizational and project coordination skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication abilities.
• Analytical mindset with a focus on experimentation and continuous improvement.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating across multiple technical disciplines.

What Success Looks Like

• Contributes to the successful development of new products and manufacturing technologies.
• Develops expertise in both mechanical systems and industrial automation.
• Delivers reliable test equipment, experimental setups, and process improvements.
• Generates high-quality technical documentation and engineering analysis.
• Supports smooth transfer of new technologies from R&D into manufacturing operations.
• Builds strong collaborative relationships across engineering, product development, and manufacturing teams.

Pay & Benefits

• • Full-Time
  • Salary: $95,000 - $115,000
  • Medical, Dental, Vision insurance and other voluntary benefit options: benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire
  • Eligible for 3 weeks of paid vacation + 11 holidays (9 scheduled & 2 floating) + 8 sick days. All vacation days are accrued
  • 401(k): 3% company contribution and additional 3% company match
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Why Gates?

Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. While we might operate in a vast amount of time zones we operate as 'One Gates' and have a common goal of pushing the boundaries of materials science. We invest in our people, bringing real-world experience that enables us to solve our customers' diverse challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow.

Work Environment

Gates is an Equal Opportunity and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, age, disability, pregnancy, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other consideration defined by law.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands and fingers to work with objects, tools, or controls; and use office equipment including computers, telephones, and/or copiers/scanners. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in Colorado, Gates is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. This compensation range is specific to the State of Colorado and takes into account various factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role.

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