Automotive Mechanical Engineer - Willow

Jasper Engine Exchange, Inc.; Town of Willow (WI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

PTO + holidays

401(k) + ESOP

Quarterly bonus opportunities

Referral bonus

Training & advancement

Job summary

Jasper Engines & Transmissions seeks an Automotive Mechanical Engineer to step into a Quality Captain role within our manufacturing operations. This is not an entry-level position—hands-on experience in automotive, engine machining, or mechanical systems is essential to drive results from day one.

You will own quality performance in a production pod, lead problem-solving efforts, and ensure high quality while meeting cost targets.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in automotive, engine machining, or mechanical manufacturing environments.
• Strong problem-solving and data-driven decision-making using quality methods.

Responsibilities

• Own quality performance for a production pod as Quality Captain.
• Lead A3 problem-solving for warranty, test stand, and internal quality issues.
• Analyze warranty data to identify trends and drive corrective actions.
• Collaborate with group leaders to meet quality and cost targets.
• Develop and maintain work instructions and standardized processes.
• Implement built-in quality practices to prevent defects at source.
• Support testing and validation of vendor parts (dyno, field, test stand).
• Lead cost reduction and salvage initiatives without compromising quality.

Skills

Auto manufacturing

Root cause analysis

On-floor manufacturing

Quality systems

Education

Mechanical Engineering degree

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking an Automotive Mechanical Engineer to step into a Quality Captain role within our manufacturing operations. This is not an entry-level position — the ideal candidate will bring hands‑on experience in automotive, engine machining, or mechanical systems and be capable of driving results from day one. This role is responsible for owning quality performance within a production pod, leading problem‑solving efforts, reducing test stand rejects and field warranties, and ensuring we deliver a high-quality product while maintaining cost targets.

Compensation & Benefits

• Compensation is commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Medical, dental, and prescription insurance (after 30 days)
• PTO + 10 paid holidays
• 401(k) + Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP)
• Quarterly bonus opportunities
• Associate referral bonus
• Ongoing training and advancement opportunities

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as Quality Captain for a production pod, owning overall quality performance
• Lead and execute A3 problem‑solving activities for:
  • Warranty failures
  • Test stand failures
  • Internal quality issues
• Analyze customer call notes and warranty data to identify trends and drive corrective actions
• Partner closely with Group Leaders to ensure quality output while maintaining production cost targets
• Develop and maintain work instructions and standardized processes
• Implement built‑in quality practices to prevent defects at the source
• Support and lead fit, form, and function validation of new and existing vendor parts
• Develop and execute test plans, including:
  • Test stand validation
  • Dyno testing
  • Field testing
  • Durability testing
• Support failure analysis and collaborate with new product development teams
• Lead or support cost reduction and salvage initiatives without compromising quality
• Research, evaluate, and implement new technologies to improve machining and assembly processes

Required Experience & Qualifications

• Proven experience in automotive, engine machining, or mechanical manufacturing environments
• Demonstrated success in problem‑solving and root cause analysis (A3, 8D, or similar)
• Strong critical thinking and data‑driven decision‑making skills
• Experience working directly on the manufacturing floor with production teams
• Ability to read and interpret technical data, test results, and customer feedback
• Experience with quality systems, validation testing, and process control
• Strong communication skills and ability to influence across teams
• Self‑driven with the ability to take ownership and lead initiatives independently

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Automotive Technology, or related automotive field experience
• Experience with engine assembly, machining processes, or remanufacturing
• Familiarity with 3D modeling/CAD
• Experience working with dyno/testing environments

What We’re Looking For

• Someone who can step in immediately and make an impact
• A hands‑on problem solver who thrives on the manufacturing floor
• A leader who can own quality, drive accountability, and deliver results
• A candidate who understands the balance between quality and cost

Pay Range:

Jasper Engines & Transmissions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. JASPER is an at will employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disability, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation or national origin. JASPER has been remanufacturing quality products since 1942 and today we are the nation's largest remanufacturer of gas and diesel engines, transmissions, differentials, rear axle assemblies, air & fuel components, marine engines, sterndrives, performance engines, and electric motors. JASPERs, over 2,500 Associate-Owners, are committed to providing our customers with exceptional experience and the perfect product. We are firmly committed to providing all our Associate-Owners with a safe work environment, opportunities for Personal Growth and Development and a wide array of benefits. No automotive experience, no problem! We provide training for many jobs that do not require specific experience. Own Your Future by becoming part of our 100% Associate-Owned Family!