Job Title: Principal Mechanical Engineer – Refrigeration Controls
Job Summary
We are seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join the Refrigeration Controls Product Engineering team. This role focuses on mechanical design, drawing development, product validation, and quality-driven engineering practices. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in CREO, Windchill, SAP, GD&T, and experience designing sheet metal components, machined parts, and assemblies.
This position requires strong analytical thinking to lead design initiatives, support quality improvements, and apply structured problem-solving methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma. The role plays a critical part in ensuring product integrity through testing, validation, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Mechanical Design & Drafting
- Develop, modify, and maintain 3D models and 2D drawings using PTC CREO
- Design sheet metal parts, machined components, weldments, and assemblies
- Apply GD&T (ASME Y14.5) standards for accurate engineering documentation
- Lead design and drawing reviews with focus on manufacturability and quality
- Collaborate with Manufacturing and Supply Chain teams to improve DFM/DFMA
Quality & Part Validation
- Create and execute validation plans including functional, dimensional, and durability testing
- Utilize problem-solving tools such as 8D, DMAIC, and Ishikawa
- Perform root cause analysis for production issues and field failures
- Define inspection criteria with Quality and Testing teams
- Maintain documentation aligned with engineering and quality standards
Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement
- Apply Lean and Six Sigma principles to optimize processes and reduce waste
- Participate in Kaizen events, PFMEA reviews, and process improvement initiatives
- Identify opportunities to enhance design, validation, and product performance
Configuration & Document Management
- Manage CAD data and workflows in PTC Windchill PLM
- Maintain BOMs, revisions, and part data in SAP ERP
- Prepare and manage Engineering Change Requests (ECRs) and Engineering Change Notices (ECNs)
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work with Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, Testing, and Product teams
- Support prototype builds, trials, and pre-production validation
- Communicate technical information through reports and presentations
- Collaborate with global engineering teams to align standards
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (ABET-accredited)
- 5+ years of experience in mechanical design, product engineering, or quality engineering
- Strong proficiency in CREO Parametric and GD&T
- Experience in drawing creation, revision control, and assembly design
- Knowledge of validation testing and quality tools
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- U.S. Citizenship required
- Willingness to travel up to 10%
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with Windchill PLM and SAP ERP
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt preferred)
- Experience in manufacturing environments and supplier collaboration
- Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Project
- Familiarity with metrology tools and inspection processes
Principal Duties
1. Technical Leadership
- Lead design development and enforce CAD/drafting best practices
- Ensure documentation accuracy and compliance with standards
2. Test Planning & Execution
- Develop and execute validation test procedures
- Capture and analyze test data
- Prepare detailed test reports and communicate results
3. Mentorship & Training
- Train team members on GD&T, drafting, and validation techniques
- Provide guidance on quality and continuous improvement tools
4. Quality & Continuous Improvement
- Lead data-driven quality improvement initiatives
- Recommend design/process enhancements based on testing and feedback
