Senior Mechanical Engineer

Rutledge Group Resources, Inc; South Bend (IN); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Rutledge Group Resources, Inc is seeking a Senior Design Engineer in South Bend, Indiana. The successful candidate will lead the design and development of mechanical systems, ensuring performance, quality, and timelines are met. Responsibilities include managing projects from concept to production, and collaborating with manufacturing and quality teams.

Qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, 5+ years of experience in design engineering, and strong skills in CAD tools. The role promises a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in design engineering or product development.
• Experience supporting prototype builds and product launches.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes and production environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead design programs, including project planning, timelines, and deliverables.
• Develop conceptual and detailed mechanical designs.
• Ensure compliance with applicable safety and regulatory standards.

Skills

CAD proficiency (SolidWorks, Inventor)

Structural analysis (FEA)

Problem-solving skills

Communication abilities

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD tools

Structural analysis tools

Job description

Position Overview

The Senior Design Engineer will lead the design and development of mechanical systems and components, supporting both new product development and enhancements to existing product lines. This role is responsible for managing projects from concept through prototyping and into production, while ensuring performance, quality, and timeline objectives are met.

This individual will also provide technical leadership within the engineering team and collaborate cross-functionally with manufacturing, quality, and product management.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead design programs, including project planning, timelines, and deliverables
• Develop conceptual and detailed mechanical designs for structural components and assemblies
• Perform and review structural analysis (FEA) to validate performance against requirements
• Create and manage 3D models and detailed drawings using CAD tools
• Support prototype development, testing, and validation activities
• Drive product improvements and new design initiatives
• Participate in formal design reviews with internal teams and external stakeholders
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including manufacturing, quality, and operations
• Generate technical documentation including reports, work instructions, and procedures
• Ensure compliance with applicable safety and regulatory standards
• Support transition from design to production, including vendor interaction as needed

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• 5+ years of experience in design engineering or product development
• Strong proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks, Inventor, or similar)
• Experience with structural analysis tools (FEA)
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes and production environments
• Experience supporting prototype builds and product launches
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities

Preferred Experience

• Background in automotive or related mechanical product industries
• Experience working with OEM customers
• Familiarity with CNC processes, DXF file generation, or fabrication methods
• Exposure to 3D printing, laser scanning, or CMM systems
• Experience working in a fast-paced, project-driven environment