Mechanical and Application Engineer

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Ro-Flo Compressors is a small, team-oriented manufacturing company based in Appleton, Wisconsin. We manufacture high-quality rotary vane compressors for a wide range of industrial applications. Our success is built on reliable products, quality craftsmanship, and a commitment to providing responsive customer service that meets our customers' needs.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Mechanical Engineer provides hands-on engineering support across compressor testing, mechanical engineering, application engineering, and calibration program coordination. The initial focus of the position is test engineering, with technical ownership of the Ro-Flo test stand and responsibility for planning, executing, and documenting compressor testing. As experience and product knowledge develop, the position will assume increasing responsibility for mechanical engineering, application engineering, product development, customer support, manufacturing support, and continuous product improvement under the direction of the Engineering Manager.

Test Engineering - Primary Responsibility

• Own the technical operation of the Ro-Flo test stand, including internal R&D and contractual compressor run testing, test planning, setup, execution, teardown, and documentation.
• Ensure safe test practices and develop clear test procedures, setup drawings, and instructions for technicians.
• Direct technicians on test-related setup, execution, and teardown activities and resolve test-specific technical issues.
• Analyze test data, validate compressor performance, and prepare technical reports documenting results and conclusions.
• Maintain test equipment in serviceable and calibrated condition; coordinate maintenance and evaluate or procure new test equipment as needed.

Mechanical Engineering

• Conduct and support R&D activities to improve compressor design, performance, reliability, manufacturability, serviceability, and cost.
• Identify and implement product and process improvements based on test results, field feedback, manufacturing feedback, and engineering analysis.
• Perform engineering calculations and analyses involving performance, loads, stresses, materials, tolerances, fits, clearances, and other mechanical design considerations.
• Investigate manufacturing, assembly, test, and field issues; participate in troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and corrective actions under the direction of a Senior Engineer or the Engineering Manager, as appropriate.
• Support internal engineering projects and sales orders requiring specialized documentation, inspection, or testing.
• Develop and maintain engineering procedures, work instructions, design practices, and engineering records as assigned.
• Collaborate with Engineering and other cross-functional teams to support effective integration of mechanical components and systems.

Application Engineering

• Work directly with customers and Sales to understand operating requirements, evaluate applications, and recommend appropriate compressor solutions.
• Review customer specifications, purchase orders, and technical requirements to identify engineering requirements, exceptions, and technical or commercial risks.
• Use Ro-Flo Performance Software to evaluate compressor selections, operating performance, and customer applications.
• Select appropriate materials and components based on operating conditions and design requirements.
• Provide technical support throughout the sales process, including proposals, customer meetings, technical justifications, and application training.
• Develop strong customer relationships and educate customers on Ro-Flo technology, compressor applications, operating characteristics, and the conditions where Ro-Flo products provide an effective technical solution.

Calibration

• Coordinate Ro-Flo’s calibration program and serve as the primary liaison with the third-party calibration service provider.
• Ensure applicable instruments and tools remain properly calibrated and documented in accordance with Ro-Flo requirements; coordinate calibration scheduling, records, and repair or replacement activities as needed.

Position Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline from an ABET-accredited school.
• 3 years of relevant engineering experience preferred.
• Strong mechanical and technical aptitude with the ability and willingness to develop a detailed understanding of Ro-Flo compressor design, application, performance, and related system components.
• Practical, team-oriented approach with willingness to work hands-on with technicians, particularly for test setup and execution, and to support other functions when business needs require.

Preferred Experience and Skills

• Experience with compressors, pumps, rotating equipment, pressure-containing equipment, or industrial machinery.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics.
• Knowledge of instrumentation and controls, including instrument selection and troubleshooting.

Other Beneficial Experience and Skills

• Knowledge of mechanical seals, bearings, couplings, lubrication systems, and related components.
• Ability to read and interpret P&IDs and other engineering drawings.
• Experience with vibration measurement, vibration analysis, and interpretation of rotating equipment vibration data.
• Basic understanding of computer programming languages such as VB, C#, and SQL.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Microsoft Excel, and similar engineering tools.

Physical and Work Requirements

• Ability to work effectively in office, manufacturing, assembly, and equipment testing environments.
• Ability to safely access manufacturing, assembly, and test areas and comply with applicable facility and customer safety requirements.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally approximately 10–15% for customer meetings, field support, supplier visits, commissioning, or testing.
• Ability to adjust work schedule for the needs of international customers periodically.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• Mechanical engineering: 3 years (Preferred)
• Mechanical engineering analysis and product improvement: 1 year (Preferred)
• Rotating equipment and industrial machinery knowledge: 1 year (Preferred)
• Engineering calculations: 1 year (Preferred)
• Calibration program coordination: 1 year (Preferred)

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Preferred)
• Work Location: In person