Senior Design Engineer - Technical Lead
Senior Design Engineer – Packaging Automation SystemsLocation: Onsite (Goodhue County, Minnesota, MN) Reports to: GM Experience Level: 8 years Core Values: Precision | Reliability | InnovationPosition OverviewOur client, located in Goodhue County, Minnesota, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Design Engineer to lead the mechanical design and development of advanced packaging automation equipment within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This is a hands-on engineering leadership role responsible for driving machine design initiatives from concept through production while mentoring engineering team members and collaborating cross-functionally with manufacturing, controls, project management, and leadership teams. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in mechanical design for custom automation and packaging machinery, strong proficiency in 3D CAD systems, and the ability to lead complex engineering projects with minimal oversight. This position is primarily on-site to support collaboration, machine development, testing, and production integration, with some scheduling flexibility available.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the design and development of custom packaging and automation equipment from concept through releaseCreate detailed mechanical designs, assemblies, layouts, and manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks or similar CAD platformsDevelop innovative machine concepts focused on reliability, manufacturability, efficiency, and performanceServe as a technical leader for complex automation projects and provide mentorship to junior engineers and designersCollaborate closely with controls engineering, manufacturing, project management, sourcing, and service teams throughout the project lifecycleConduct design reviews, risk assessments, tolerance analysis, and troubleshooting activitiesSupport prototype builds, machine testing, debugging, and customer acceptance activitiesOversee BOM development, component selection, and engineering documentationEnsure projects meet schedule, budget, quality, and customer requirementsDrive continuous improvement initiatives related to machine performance, standardization, and engineering processesInterface directly with customers when needed to support technical discussions and project executionRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline8+ years of experience in mechanical design engineering within packaging equipment, automation machinery, or custom industrial equipment environmentsStrong experience designing high-speed automated machinery and packaging systemsAdvanced proficiency with SolidWorks or comparable 3D CAD softwareExperience with machine design principles including pneumatics, servo motion systems, conveyance systems, robotics integration, mechanical power transmission, and fabricated assembliesStrong understanding of manufacturing and fabrication processesExperience leading engineering projects and mentoring technical teamsExcellent troubleshooting, communication, and organizational skillsAbility to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environmentMust be comfortable working on-site regularly to support engineering and production activitiesPreferred QualificationsExperience in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, or consumer packaged goods automationKnowledge of automation integration and controls interfacesExperience supporting machine commissioning and installation activitiesFamiliarity with ERP systems, engineering change processes, and project tracking toolsExposure to customer-facing engineering support or applications engineeringLeadership ExpectationsAct as a technical leader and mentor within the engineering organizationPromote collaboration, accountability, and engineering best practicesDrive innovation while balancing practicality, manufacturability, and project timelinesSupport continuous improvement initiatives across engineering and operationsContribute to long-term product and technology development strategiesWork EnvironmentPrimarily on-site engineering and manufacturing environment with some scheduling flexibility available. Collaborative, hands-on culture focused on innovation and execution.Compensation & BenefitsCompetitive base salaryPerformance-based bonus opportunityComprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage401(k) with company matchPaid time off and holidaysCareer growth and leadership development opportunities