What are the responsibilities and job description for the Project Engineer - New Product Development position at Rite-Hite Company?
Rite-Hite is the global leader in the manufacture and distribution of industrial loading dock and door equipment. Our innovative products and world class sales organization ensure solid, consistent growth, both for our company and our staff. We are always looking ahead to develop innovative new products and services to improve our customers' safety, security, and productivity.
What We Offer:Rite-Hite provides competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package with medical, dental, and vision coverage along with life and paid medical leave. We also provide a retirement savings plan that combines 401(K) with company match and profit sharing. Paid holidays, vacation, and up to five paid personal/sick days per year round out the package.
Rite-Hite is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer offering a drug free workplace for our customers and employees.
Job Description:Purpose and Scope
Serve as a senior individual contributor responsible for leading the technical execution of engineering projects under the direction of the Engineering Manager or Engineering Project Manager. The Project Engineer functions as a technical lead and project owner-overseeing design activities, coordinating cross-functional efforts, and ensuring successful project delivery from concept through production launch. While not a people leader, this role requires independent decision-making, deep technical expertise, and strong project coordination skills.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Lead assigned engineering projects, providing technical direction and coordination across disciplines.
Serve as the primary technical point of contact for project execution.
Translate strategic objectives into actionable engineering plans, deliverables, and timelines.
Review and guide design concepts from Design Engineers and Associates.
Drive design reviews, risk assessments, and validation plans.
Coordinate with Product Management, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain.
Conduct analytical modeling, simulation, and testing to optimize performance.
Oversee prototype builds, testing, and field validation.
Manage engineering documentation and change processes.
Support supplier engagement and technology evaluation.
Promote integration of AI/ML tools and digital engineering methods.
Provide mentorship and guidance to less-experienced engineers.
Support continuous improvement initiatives.
Principal Accountabilities:
Deliver technically robust, cost-effective solutions meeting schedule and quality goals.
Lead technical execution of complex projects without direct supervisory responsibility.
Serve as subject matter expert and mentor within project teams.
Drive collaboration and innovation across disciplines.
Ensure effective communication and alignment across functions.
Knowledge and Skills Requirements
Technical and Analytical Skills:
Advanced proficiency in product design, systems integration, and analysis.
Expertise in 3D CAD (SolidWorks) and data management tools.
Strong understanding of system interdependencies across disciplines.
Experience using simulation or modeling for validation.
Familiarity with AI/ML applications for predictive modeling or design automation.
Project and Collaboration Skills:
Ability to lead complex projects independently.
Strong communication and stakeholder coordination.
Excellent organization and prioritization skills.
Skilled in technical documentation and reporting.
Education and/or Experience:
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or related Engineering discipline required.
Minimum five (5) years of experience in product development or project engineering.
Proven record of technical leadership and project execution.
Professional Engineer (P.E.) license preferred.
Proficiency with CAD tools (SolidWorks), data analysis, and documentation systems.
Experience with AI/ML-enabled design tools or data-driven processes preferred.
Additional Job Information:
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