Mechanical Engineer

Watershed Foods, LLC; Gridley (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits (PPO/HSA)

Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D

401(k) with company match

Holidays, PTO, parental leave

Tuition reimbursement

Uniform and boots provided

Volunteer days

Referral bonuses

Job summary

Watershed Foods, LLC in Gridley, IL is seeking a skilled Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, and implement advanced mechanical systems in a factory setting. You will contribute to new equipment development, lean improvements, and process design through hands-on design, procurement, testing, and real-world deployment.

You will work on projects that integrate automation, mechanical design, and manufacturing improvements to increase efficiency, precision, and reliability in a fast-paced,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.

Responsibilities

• Design parts and systems using 3D CAD with manufacturability in mind.
• Collaborate with production and suppliers to improve designs and ensure buildability.
• Manage multiple projects with schedules and budgets across departments.
• Continuously improve designs and processes for cost, quality, and reliability.

Skills

3D CAD

Manufacturing

Hands-on

Problem solving

Project management

Communication

Tolerances and specs

Materials knowledge

Design for cost

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Creo

Inventor

Job description

Job Summary

We’re looking for a skilled and innovative Mechanical Engineer to help design, develop, and implement advanced mechanical systems in a factory environment. This role supports new equipment development, lean improvement projects, and new process design through hands‑on work in design, procurement, testing, and real‑world deployment.

We’re looking for a skilled and innovative Mechanical Engineer to help design, develop, and implement advanced mechanical systems in a factory environment. This role supports new equipment development, lean improvement projects, and new process design through hands‑on work in design, procurement, testing, and real‑world deployment.
You’ll work on projects that integrate automation, mechanical design, and manufacturing improvements to increase efficiency, precision, and reliability in a fast‑paced, highly regulated food production environment. Expect a mix of research, prototyping, troubleshooting, and implementation on the production floor.

Qualifications

Key Responsibilities

Build Cool Things (Design & Development)

• Use 3D CAD (SolidWorks or similar) to design parts, assemblies, and systems that can actually be built and maintained.
• Create clear drawings with proper tolerances, materials, and specs so designs work the way they should in production.
• Run practical engineering checks for strength, heat, flow, motion, and fit, and help troubleshoot when designs don’t behave in the real world.

Make It Work in the Real World (Manufacturing & Supplier Development)

• Work directly with production teams and suppliers to solve problems, improve designs, and keep projects moving.
• Review parts for machinability, welding, assembly, and cost to make sure designs are realistic and buildable.
• Help develop tooling, fixtures, and processes, and support continuous improvement that makes equipment faster, safer, and more reliable.

Keep Projects Moving (Project Management & Teamwork)

• Work across departments to align project goals, priorities, and timelines.
• Manage multiple projects at once while keeping schedules, budgets, and details on track.
• Communicate clearly with engineers, production, suppliers, and leadership so everyone stays informed.

Make Things Better Every Day (Continuous Improvement & Innovation)

• Look for ways to improve designs and processes to reduce cost, increase quality, and simplify production.
• Stay current on new technology, materials, and manufacturing methods and bring ideas to the team.
• Support testing, R&D, and new equipment development to keep factory operations moving forward.

Skills & Qualifications

• Strong 3D CAD skills (SolidWorks, Creo, Inventor, or similar) and the ability to design parts that work in the real world.
• Good understanding of manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, fabrication, and assembly.
• Comfortable working hands‑on with the shop floor, suppliers, and prototypes.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot issues and find practical solutions.
• Able to manage multiple projects and stay organized in a fast‑moving environment.
• Clear communicator who works well with engineers, operators, suppliers, and leadership.
• Experience reviewing drawings, tolerances, and materials to ensure parts are reliable and cost‑effective.
• Motivated to learn, try new ideas, and continuously improve designs, processes, and equipment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in mechanical design, manufacturing, or engineering roles.
• Experience in a manufacturing, automation, or product development environment preferred.

Benefits

• PPO or HSA medical benefits with Employer Contributions.
• Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, Disability insurance.
• 401K with a competitive company match.
• 8 Holidays, Vacation accrual, PTO program, Parental Leave.
• Attendance, Safety, Service Awards.
• Tuition Reimbursement Program.
• Uniform and Boots provision.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Chaplain Program.
• Smart Dollar.
• Company Events and Luncheons.
• Paid Volunteer Days.
• Referral bonuses.