Mechanical Engineer I

Life Fitness; Owatonna (MN); Hybrid; USD 66,500 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) savings plan with 4% employer match

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off, including holidays and vacation

Job summary

Life Fitness is seeking a Mechanical Engineer I to contribute to the design and release of components for innovative cardio and strength equipment. The position is suitable for entry-level candidates with SolidWorks skills and offers a hybrid work environment in Owatonna, MN.

The engineer will participate in product development, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and handle design-related issues. Benefits include a competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, and a 401(k) plan.

Qualifications

• 0–3 years of experience; entry-level candidates encouraged to apply.
• Basic knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Understanding of 2D drawing creation and drafting standards.

Responsibilities

• Design components using SolidWorks CAD software.
• Create 3D models, detailed drawings, and engineering documentation.
• Support product development activities including concept generation.

Skills

Strong CAD skills

SolidWorks proficiency

Effective communication

Problem-solving capability

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

Job description

Join us as we empower the world to work out, creating healthier lives together. Are you a Mechanical Engineer, passionate about fitness, and looking to gain hands‑on experience and grow your skills? Life Fitness / Hammer Strength is looking for a Mechanical Engineer I to join our team. You'll be part of a team responsible for the design, analysis, and release of components and assemblies used in industry‑leading cardio and strength fitness equipment, from concept through production launch. The role is ideal for a candidate with strong CAD skills, particularly in SolidWorks, and a willingness to learn and grow in part design and product development. The engineer will also support existing products by assisting in resolving field, service, and manufacturing issues as needed. This is a hybrid role based out of either our manufacturing facility in Owatonna, MN, or the Nieto‑Jones Innovation Center in Schaumburg, IL. M/F remote and T‑Th are in‑office collaboration days.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop components and assemblies using SolidWorks CAD software
• Create 3D models, detailed drawings, and engineering documentation for manufacturing
• Support product development activities, including concept generation, prototyping, and design validation
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams including Product Management, Manufacturing, Reliability, Purchasing, and suppliers
• Assist in developing product specifications, timelines, and test plans
• Support prototype builds, testing, and iterative design improvements
• Develop and release production Bills of Materials (BOMs)
• Help resolve design‑related issues for existing products in manufacturing and the field
• Travel up to approximately 20% to support supplier visits, prototyping, and production activities
• Follow Mechanical Engineering procedures and contribute to continuous improvement efforts

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 0–3 years of experience (entry‑level candidates encouraged to apply)
• Strong proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)
• Understanding of 2D drawing creation and drafting standards
• Basic knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
• Knowledge of plastic part design, including injection molding, Part design for manufacturability (DFM), draft, ribs, bosses, and wall thickness considerations
• Knowledge of metal part design, including sheet metal, weldments, castings, machined components, and aluminum extrusions
• Exposure to engineering analysis methods (FEA or hand calculations preferred)
• Strong willingness to learn and develop technical skills in product design and manufacturing
• Effective communication and collaboration skills
• Strong attention to detail and problem‑solving capability

Preferred Skills

• Internship, co‑op, or academic project experience involving CAD design
• Exposure to plastic component design or consumer product development
• Familiarity with PLM systems (e.g., Teamcenter)
• Hands‑on experience with prototyping or fabrication
• Basic knowledge of Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) principles

Benefits

• Salary range: $66,500 – $95,000 annually (U.S. applicants)
• 401(k) savings plan with 4% employer match
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Parental, medical, and military leaves of absence
• Paid time off, including 12 paid holidays, paid vacation beginning at 13 days annually, sick leave as provided under state and local laws
• Company paid short‑term disability and optional long‑term disability
• Health savings account, health care and dependent care reimbursement accounts
• Employee and dependent life insurance and supplemental life and AD&D insurance
• Hospital indemnity; identity protection, legal services, adoption assistance, tuition assistance, commuter benefits
• Employee discounts and employee assistance program, including free counseling sessions

Equal Opportunity Employer

Life Fitness / Hammer Strength is an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. Life Fitness / Hammer Strength complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding employment, recruitment, and hiring. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, disability, protected veteran status, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.