Posted: 20-Jun-25
Location: Traverse City, Michigan
Type: Full Time
Years of Experience:
Required Education:
| Position: | New Product Development Engineer (Mechanical) |
| Department: | Engineering |
| Reports To: | Engineering Manager |
| Location: | Traverse City, Michigan |
Summary: As an Oilgear Engineer, you will be expected to work as part of a team to solve complex fluid power related problems. There will be an emphasis on new product development. In this role, the ideal candidate will be able to collaborate and work as part of an engineering team. They will also spend a portion of their time in a hands on production environment. The candidate will also be working with customer which sometimes requires travel to their location.
Essential Responsibilities and Duties:
Product Design and Development
- Design and development of hydraulic components and systems
- Create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings using advanced CAD software
- Utilize simulation software such as CFD and FEA
- Design systems that optimize energy consumption and performance
- Work with remote monitoring and associated sensors and hardware
- Understand fluid power application requirements in various markets.
- Assist production in analyzing failures to determine root cause and identify opportunities for improvement.
- Develop test procedures and conduct prototype validation testing.
- Work with manufacturing partners and vendors to develop and update production processes and specifications to ensure quality and performance of components.
Technical Leadership
- Identify and implement opportunities for energy savings and performance improvements
- Represent the company at industry conferences, focusing on applications in fluid power components
- Contribute to the company's strategic technology roadmap for smart, connected hydraulic solutions
Project Management
- Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and budget adherence
- Develop project timelines, resource allocation plans, and risk mitigation strategies
- Present project updates and technical reports to senior management and stakeholders
Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities for product enhancements and cost reduction
- Develop and implement new design methodologies and tools to improve efficiency
- Contribute to the company's intellectual property portfolio through patents and technical publications
Working Environment and Physical Demands:
- The role is primarily performed in a professional office environment.
- Occasional exposure to a shop environment, which may involve potential noise, dust, odors, and fumes when visiting the shop floor.
- Physical activities include typing on a computer, walking, sitting, bending, and stooping throughout the work shift.
- Must be able to lift and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds.
Qualifications
Minimum:
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related
- Preferably at least 3 years of experience in fluid power design or working with fluid power
- Proven track record of successful engineering projects
Preferred
- Fluid Power Certification is a plus
- Preference given to candidates with experience in fluid power systems
- Background in hydraulic component or system design strongly preferred
Technical Skills
- Knowledge of hydraulic system principles, fluid dynamics, and pump design
- Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor)
- Experience with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools is a plus
Soft Skills
- Excellent problem-solving and analytical thinking abilities
- Effective communication skills, both verbal and written
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
Additional Requirements
- Willingness to travel occasionally for client meetings or industry conferences, 15% travel
Training Requirements:
- General Safety
- ISO 9001
- Applicable FOP’s
- Forklift & Overhead Crane Training
- Lock out tag out training
Personal Protective Equipment:
- Safety glasses
- Steel toe shoes/composite toe
- May require other PPE, such as gloves, goggles, shields, aprons, etc, while performing specific tasks
The Oilgear Company is an at-will employer.