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Project Engineer

*Title: Project Engineer* *Location: Appleton, WI* *Job Summary:* We are seeking an experienced and tech-savvy Mechanical Design & Automation Engineer to lead the design, specification, and testing of our automated Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) machines and systems. This role is unique: beyond traditional mechanical design (flexible film tracking, heat sealing, conveying, and scaling systems), you will act as a key systems innovator—utilizing SolidWorks, VBA, and Excel macros to automate drawing creation and streamline data integration with our ERP/inventory systems. If you thrive in a hybrid role that demands sharp analytical calculation, robust 3D modeling, and custom workflow automation, we want you on our team. *Key Responsibilities & Duties:*
  • Mechanical & Systems Design: Lead the design, specification, and testing of automated packaging machinery, including film tracking, heat sealing technologies, conveying mechanisms, product handling, and scale systems.
  • CAD & Data Workflow Automation: Develop and implement custom SolidWorks macros to export structured data directly from machine models, simplifying Bill of Materials (BOM) data entry.
  • Create VBA, Excel, and Batch macros to organize, clean, and automate machine drawing and manufacturing documentation, eliminating manual data handling.
  • ERP & Bill of Materials Management: Maintain strong data integrity for BOM creation and inventory tracking utilizing Infor CRM / ERP software.
  • Technical Engineering & Calculations: Perform critical engineering calculations (including mass and energy balances, load, strength, and tolerances) to ensure robust machine integrity.
  • Production & Floor Support: Conduct regular quality and design conformance inspections on the manufacturing floor for work-in-progress machinery. Provide immediate technical direction to resolve configuration or performance discrepancies.
  • Project Direction & Collaboration: Plan, coordinate, and direct activities involved in the fabrication, installation, and repair of electromechanical systems. Provide clear work direction to mechanical designers and drafters as needed.
_An individual in this position must be able to successfully perform the essential duties and responsibilities listed above. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position._ _The above list reflects the general details necessary to describe the principle and essential functions of the position and shall not be construed as the only duties that may be assigned for the position._ *Education & Preferred Qualifications:*
  • Bachelor Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent work experience in capital equipment design and service.
  • 5-10 years of related mechanical design experience.
  • Proven experience working in a dual development and production environment, specifically designing complex machinery (experience with automated packaging, MAP systems, or food processing equipment is highly preferred).
  • Demonstrated ability to write SolidWorks macros, VBA, and Batch scripts to automate repetitive design, drawing creation, and data cleaning processes.
  • Experience utilizing Infor (or similar enterprise ERP/CRM software) for structural Bill of Materials (BOM) management.
  • Strong grasp of mechanical and electromechanical systems, fluid/thermal dynamics (mass/energy balance), and structural engineering calculations.
  • Proficient in the use of CAD software for design documentation utilizing SolidWorks, Inventor, AutoCAD or similar system.
  • Ability to develop reporting macros to better export to secondary programs such as CRM.
  • Extensive knowledge of manufacturing processes for fabricating parts and component selection for the meat products and food industries.
  • Good organization, communication, analytical and project management skills. Good verbal and written skills utilizing office software (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Advanced knowledge of Excel to create macros and other formulas.
  • Valid drivers license and ability to travel, up to 10%, including internationally
*Equal Opportunity Employer:* _We are proud to foster an inclusive and diverse workplace culture. We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We value diversity and believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential to drive innovation, foster creativity, and achieve success. We welcome and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to ensuring a fair and equitable recruitment and employment process for everyone._
Pay: $75,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Relocation assistance
  • Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
  • Will you now or in the future require work visa lottery, transfer, or sponsorship?
Education:
  • Bachelor's (Preferred)
Experience:
  • Mechanical design: 5 years (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
  • Appleton, WI 54914 (Preferred)
Work Location: In person