Staff Mechanical Engineer - Compressors

Staff Engineer – Mechanical SystemsLocation: Benicia, CA (Onsite)Employment Type: Full-TimeAbout the Role RIX Industries is seeking a highly experienced Staff Engineer to serve as a senior technical authority for the design, development, and long-term performance of complex mechanical components and systems. In this role, you will operate as a principal individual contributor and technical advisor, providing deep subject-matter expertise, mentorship, and engineering leadership across high-impact programs. You will apply advanced mechanical engineering principles to deliver innovative, reliable, and manufacturable solutions supporting mission-critical applications across Marine, Aerospace, Energy, Industrial, Medical, and Critical Infrastructure markets. This position is ideal for a seasoned engineer who thrives in technically complex environments, influences design direction, and shapes engineering standards while collaborating across engineering, manufacturing, and customer-facing teams.What You’ll Do Lead the design, analysis, and development of complex mechanical components and systems in alignment with technical requirements, regulatory standards, and business objectivesDevelop detailed specifications for new products, enhancements, modifications, and prototypes using advanced engineering judgment and analytical toolsSelect materials, manufacturing processes, and tolerances to ensure product performance, reliability, quality, and manufacturabilityCreate and refine mechanical designs using CAD, modeling, and simulation toolsCommunicate complex technical concepts, design intent, and specifications clearly to engineers, managers, and non-technical stakeholdersEngage directly with customers in technical discussions, including new product blueprinting interviews, translating requirements into executable specificationsPlan and oversee prototype builds and validation testing to evaluate performance, safety, reliability, and complianceAnalyze test data, field data, and performance results to identify improvement opportunities and drive design refinementsLead root cause analysis and troubleshooting efforts for complex failures or performance gaps; develop and implement corrective actionsServe as a technical advisor on high-risk or strategically important projects, influencing engineering decisions and design directionDevelop analytical “digital twin” models to accelerate product development cyclesProvide technical mentorship, guidance, and informal coaching to engineers and cross-functional teamsContribute to the development and continuous improvement of engineering standards, processes, and best practicesPerform other duties in support of RIX’s engineering mission and long-term objectivesMust-Have Skills and Experience Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline15+ years of progressive, relevant mechanical engineering experienceDemonstrated depth of expertise in a mechanical engineering specialization or industry segmentAdvanced proficiency with CAD software and engineering analysis toolsStrong understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and design-for-manufacturability principlesProven experience conducting and interpreting prototype and validation testingStrong analytical, problem-solving, and root cause analysis capabilitiesAbility to communicate complex technical information clearly and effectivelyExperience designing and manufacturing centrifugal and/or reciprocating compressorsAbility to travel up to 10% as required by business needsU.S. Citizenship or qualification as a U.S. Person per 22 CFR 120.15Ability to obtain a DoD security clearance (if required)Physical Requirements:Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, bend, stretch, and reachAbility to lift up to 50 pounds regularlyAbility to sit or stand for extended periods at desks, tables, machine tools, or printers Nice-to-Have Skills Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related fieldExperience serving as a technical advisor or technical lead on cross-functional initiativesBackground in regulated or high-reliability manufacturing environmentsAuthorship of technical white papers, published articles, or formal technical presentations Patent holderWho You Are A recognized technical authority with deep mechanical engineering expertiseAnalytical, detail-oriented, and capable of solving complex, high-impact technical problemsA mentor and thought leader who elevates engineering capability across teamsComfortable influencing decisions without formal authorityCollaborative, customer-focused, and able to translate requirements into robust technical solutionsMotivated by innovation, technical excellence, and long-term product performanceAdditional DetailsBase Salary Range: $200,000 - 215,000Work Style: Onsite (Benicia, CA)Relocation: Available for those that qualifyWork Environment: Office-based with interaction around machine tools and testing equipmentBenefits:PTO and 12 Paid HolidaysRetirement 401(K) with company matchMedical, Dental, and Vision insuranceGroup Term Life InsuranceTuition Reimbursement ProgramReferral Bonuses and more