Sr. Research & Development Engineer

Location: This role will be based out of either the Oklahoma City Metro or Greather Chicago area

About the Role:

The Sr. Engineer, Research & Development, under the direction of Director, Research & Development, carries out the engineering functions required for the Product Development department. This includes CAD modeling, design, and drafting. Develop solutions to engineering problems, product testing procedures, prototyping of new designs, and engineering documentation.

Responsibilities:

• Performs engineering functions as directed by the Director, Research & Development. 
• Create 3D solid CAD designs, models and drawings of parts and assemblies of moderate to high complexity with minimal direction.
• Works closely with Project Management, Operations, Sourcing personnel and selected vendors on project-related issues.
• Utilizes electronic file transfer technologies and vaulting system to share, transfer and store electronic files (CAD) along with Cloud based programs.
• Supports Engineering department in the development of new products.
• Provides Engineering support when needed for improving or cost-reducing existing products.
• Works with Operations and Sourcing to obtain quotes and cost estimates when required.
• Attends New Product Development team meetings.
• Coordinates, assembles and modifies prototypes as required.
• Performs engineering change requests as well as writing and publishing Engineering Letters for product development.
• Assists in new product testing specifications and procedures, working with Quality Assurance to ensure compliance with quality requirements and standards.
• Assist in the evaluation of first production samples and the modifications/improvements of designs.
• Completes designs in accordance with product cost targets set forth by Product Management.
• Work with Director of Engineering on intellectual property filing and infringement reviews.
• Performs 3D printer maintenance as needed.
• Ensure that all operations are carried out at the minimum cost consistent with quality standards.
• Maintains a high degree of employee motivation and morale, departmental and interdepartmental cooperation.
• Maintains neatness and orderliness in the department. Observes safety regulations and initiates action to establish new regulations whenever the need arises.
• Maintains and complies with policies, procedures and practices relating to operations of the distribution center.
• Performs other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as designs, drawings, production standards, product specifications, safety and environmental rules and regulations, regulatory agencies, technical procedures, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write reports, business correspondence and documentation.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from customers, vendors, designers, managers, etc.
• Contribute to annual departmental goals, develop procedures (best practices, drafting specifications, new product development process, and collaborative design process).
• Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as basic algebra, geometry, and to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios and proportions to practical situations. Engineering tools: DFMEA, DFM, FEA, plastic material validation, model making, rapid prototyping and mechanical design concepts. Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as material yields, production requirements, percentage and gross margins and burden.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form. Interpret agency requirements (NSF, UL, ETL, etc.)
• Requires good mechanical and math aptitude, problem solving, team building and communication skills.
• Requires the ability to operate a variety of measuring tools and devices.
• Computer literacy in Office365 (Excel, Power Point, SharePoint, etc.) programs and 2D & 3D CAD design ability required. SolidWorks required.
• An ability to interact as a team member and accountable as team member.

 Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related discipline
• 9 years of relevant work experience in engineering food service equipment and hygiene products is beneficial.
• Strong understanding of Injection Molding is required. The ability to perform basic mold flow analysis is beneficial.
• Understanding metal forming, rotational molding, and manufacturing assembly desired.
• CAD skills required (Solidworks required)
• Proven ability to lead and contribute to cross functional teams through full NPD lifecycle
• Experience with product testing and regulatory compliance in the food service or appliance industry (NSF, UL, ETL, CSA)
• Hands-on experience in prototyping, testing, and optimizing food service equipment and or hygiene products