What are the responsibilities and job description for the Principal Product Engineer position at Lanco?
Who we are
For over 70 years, Mi-Jack® Products has led the way in Rubber Tired Gantry (RTG) crane innovation — delivering the most durable, reliable, and technologically advanced material handling equipment on the market. Mi-Jack is built to Lift. Engineered to Last and has been trusted for Generations.
From our industry-defining Travelift® and Translift® to groundbreaking technology like Power-on-Demand and GPS-guided steering, every Mi-Jack crane is engineered for maximum productivity in the toughest environments — ports, rail yards, and industrial facilities worldwide.
Mi-Jack brings quality: Built to perform, built to last, and equipment and support that exceed the most demanding industry standards. We are reliability: Designed for decades of service life, minimizing downtime and lowering total cost of ownership. We have experience: With more than 70 years of unmatched expertise, we don’t just meet expectations — we set the benchmark.
As the trusted leader in RTG manufacturing, sales, service, and support, Mi-Jack also offers factory-direct parts, expert maintenance, and full inspection and repair services — keeping your operations moving, 24/7.
Established in 1954. Leading ever since. Mi-Jack® Products – Lifting Industry Standards.
https://mi-jack.com
The Role: Principal Product Engineer
As a Principal Product Engineer, you’ll lead the design, development, and delivery of new product initiatives and product improvements, with a focus on sustainability, cost reduction, and performance excellence. This is a leadership role where you’ll guide projects, mentor engineers, and collaborate across engineering, manufacturing, and purchasing to bring innovative solutions to life. You will play a key role in improving cost efficiency, shaping the future of our product portfolio, and ensuring our equipment continues to set industry standards.
What You’ll Do
- Lead new product development and drive electrification initiatives.
- Improve manufacturability, cost efficiency, and warranty performance.
- Collaborate across departments and external partners to design complete machine systems.
- Oversee prototyping, testing, design reviews, and validation strategies.
- Resolve complex quality issues with proven methodologies (8D, 5Why, Stage Gate).
- Mentor and coach engineers, shaping the next generation of technical leaders.
- Influence strategy, budgets, and best practices that advance our engineering excellence.
What We’re Looking For
- Driven engineer with 5 years (preferably 10 ) leading teams in mechanical/structural design.
- Strong 3D design skills (Autodesk Inventor, SolidWorks, Creo, AutoCAD).
- Deep knowledge of mechanical design, structural connections, and manufacturing processes (welding, machining, casting, forging).
- Expertise in BOM management, engineering release processes, and industry standards (CMAA, ISO, AWS).
- Problem-solver who thrives on innovation and has strong communication skills.
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Structural, Civil, Agricultural, or related engineering field (Master’s preferred).
- Additional valuable experience in: Mechatronics, hydraulics, weldments, electronics, hand calculations, interpreting FEA results, vehicle software, reliability, ergonomics, diesel engines, and power train systems.
Why You’ll Love It Here
- Competitive pay ($110K–$140K)
- Comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, life, 401k)
- Paid time off & work-life balance
- Minimal travel (<10%)
- A collaborative, values-driven culture where your work makes a visible impact
Work Environment:
- This is primarily a sedentary office classification and employees work in an office with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances
- Minimal travel required- up to 10% domestic and international travel requirements.
- Location: Hazel Crest, IL
Physical Demands:
- The position occasionally bends, stoops, reaches, pushes and pulls drawers to retrieve and file information and lifts and carries reports, records, and other materials that typically weigh less than 30 pounds
Compensation/Benefits:
We foster a collaborative team environment that values innovation and encourages creative solutions to drive positive organizational impact. Our employees are the key to our success and help us stand out from our competitors. The base pay range for this role is $110,000 to $140,000. The final compensation offer may vary based on factors such as experience, education, skills, and location. We offer competitive pay, paid time off, and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan.
Please note this job posting is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Lanco is an equal employment opportunity employer. All employment-related decisions, including but not limited to hiring, compensation, promotion, discipline (including termination), evaluation, training, and development opportunities, etc., are made without discrimination based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender-related identity, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, military status, protected disability, citizenship, genetic information or any other category protected by applicable law.
Salary : $110,000 - $140,000
