Mechanical Engineer
WATERSHED FOODS LLC · Gridley, IL - Gridley, IL 61744
About The Role
## Description
**Job Summary:**
We’re looking for a skilled and innovative Mechanical Engineer to help design, develop, and implement advanced mechanical systems in a factory environment. This role supports new equipment development, lean improvement projects, and new process design through hands-on work in design, procurement, testing, and real-world deployment.
You’ll work on projects that integrate automation, mechanical design, and manufacturing improvements to increase efficiency, precision, and reliability in a fast-paced, highly regulated food production environment. Expect a mix of research, prototyping, troubleshooting, and implementation on the production floor.
## Qualifications
**Key Responsibilities:**
Build Cool Things (Design & Development)
- Use 3D CAD (SolidWorks or similar) to design parts, assemblies, and systems that can actually be built and maintained.
- Create clear drawings with proper tolerances, materials, and specs so designs work the way they should in production.
- Run practical engineering checks for strength, heat, flow, motion, and fit, and help troubleshoot when designs don’t behave in the real world.
Make It Work in the Real World (Manufacturing & Supplier Development)
- Work directly with production teams and suppliers to solve problems, improve designs, and keep projects moving.
- Review parts for machinability, welding, assembly, and cost to make sure designs are realistic and buildable.
- Help develop tooling, fixtures, and processes, and support continuous improvement that makes equipment faster, safer, and more reliable.
Keep Projects Moving (Project Management & Teamwork)
- Work across departments to align project goals, priorities, and timelines.
- Manage multiple projects at once while keeping schedules, budgets, and details on track.
- Communicate clearly with engineers, production, suppliers, and leadership so everyone stays informed.
Make Things Better Every Day (Continuous Improvement & Innovation)
- Look for ways to improve designs and processes to reduce cost, increase quality, and simplify production.
- Stay current on new technology, materials, and manufacturing methods and bring ideas to the team.
- Support testing, R&D, and new equipment development to keep factory operations moving forward.
**Skills & Qualifications:**
- Strong 3D CAD skills (SolidWorks, Creo, Inventor, or similar) and the ability to design parts that work in the real world.
- Good understanding of manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, fabrication, and assembly.
- Comfortable working hands-on with the shop floor, suppliers, and prototypes.
- Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot issues and find practical solutions.
- Able to manage multiple projects and stay organized in a fast-moving environment.
- Clear communicator who works well with engineers, operators, suppliers, and leadership.
- Experience reviewing drawings, tolerances, and materials to ensure parts are reliable and cost-effective.
- Motivated to learn, try new ideas, and continuously improve designs, processes, and equipment.
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
- 3+ years of experience in mechanical design, manufacturing, or engineering roles.
- Experience in a manufacturing, automation, or product development environment preferred.
**Benefits:**
- PPO or HSA medical benefits with Employer Contributions.
- Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, Disability insurance.
- 401K with a competitive company match.
- 8 Holidays, Vacation accrual, PTO program, Parental Leave.
- Attendance, Safety, Service Awards.
- Tuition Reimbursement Program.
- Uniform and Boots provision.
- Employee Assistance Program.
- Chaplain Program.
- Smart Dollar.
- Company Events and Luncheons.
- Paid Volunteer Days.
- Referral bonuses.
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