Mechanical Engineer

Watershed Foods LLC; Gridley (IL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental & Vision

401K with company match

Vacation & Holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Uniform & boots

Job summary

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

You will engage in projects that integrate automation, mechanical design, and manufacturing improvements to boost efficiency, precision, and reliability in a fast-paced, regulated food

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Design parts and assemblies using 3D CAD with real-world manufacturability.
• Collaborate with production and suppliers to improve designs and keep projects moving.
• Manage multiple projects, timelines, and budgets across departments.
• Support testing, iteration, and deployment on the production floor.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of tooling, fixtures, and processes.

Skills

3D CAD design

Hands-on prototyping

Problem solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Project management

Shop floor coordination

Communication

Reliability and quality focus

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.

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.

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.

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.