Hands-on Mechanical Engineer - Production & Prototyping

J.B. Poindexter & Co.; Ann Arbor (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

J.B. Poindexter & Co., Inc. in Ann Arbor, MI is seeking a versatile Mechanical Engineer for Production Development.

You will work as an internal centralized resource, supporting multiple business units on a wide range of product development projects, primarily focused on commercial truck bodies, accessories, and testing. The role blends CAD, analysis, prototyping, and hands-on manufacturing support, with collaboration across design, fabrication, and supplier teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 2–4 years of mechanical engineering experience, preferably in automotive or commercial vehicle industries.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks.
• Strong understanding of GD&T, tolerance analysis, product lifecycle.
• DFMEA / PFMEA, DFM, and DVP&R knowledge.
• Familiarity with automotive and commercial truck standards (SAE, ISO, FMVSS).
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Hands-on prototyping and experience with 3D printing technologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead engineering projects from concept through design release and handoff.
• Support multi-disciplinary project teams and mentor junior staff.
• Design and develop 3D models and engineering drawings using SolidWorks.
• Apply GD&T, tolerance analysis, and documentation practices.
• Perform structural/mechanical simulations (FEA) and evaluate durability.
• Ensure manufacturability and provide DFM guidance for production lines.
• Collaborate with suppliers and cross-functional teams and communicate with customers.
• Participate in prototype builds, fit checks, and validation activities.
• Incorporate additive manufacturing constraints where applicable.
• Lead cross-functional collaboration and act as an internal centralized engineering resource across multiple business units.
• Train, mentor, and guide interns and junior engineers.

Skills

2–4 years experience

GD&T

Tolerance analysis

Product lifecycle

DFMEA / PFMEA

DFM

DVP&R

Familiarity with SAE/ISO/FM VSS

Hands-on prototyping

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

3D printing

Job description

J.B. Poindexter & Co., Inc. in Ann Arbor, MI is seeking a versatile Mechanical Engineer for Production Development.

You will work as an internal centralized resource, supporting multiple business units on a wide range of product development projects, primarily focused on commercial truck bodies, accessories, and testing. The role blends CAD, analysis, prototyping, and hands-on manufacturing support, with collaboration across design, fabrication, and supplier teams.