Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Fluid Power Systems

Company : Software Placement Group

Location : Spring Grove, IL, 60081

Posted Date : 4 November 2025

Job Type : Contractor

Category : Information Design & Documentation

Occupation : Design Engineer

Job Details

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Fluid Power Systems
This is an exceptional opportunity for a diligent and skilled Mechanical Design Engineer specializing in fluid power systems to take on a pivotal role within our manufacturing organization. The selected candidate will be instrumental in designing and validating complex hydraulic equipment, driving advancements for increased reliability, safety, and quality. This role not only requires a high level of expertise in hydraulic design but also provides a platform to significantly impact our operational efficiency and innovation across multiple facilities.
Salary: $75,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Mechanical/Hydraulic design: Develop specifications for hydraulic and mechanical equipment to meet manufacturing needs.
Research and develop new processes and equipment focusing on fluid power systems.
Design fluid power circuits, including logic, system control, and hydraulic schematics.
Perform layout of hydraulic and mechanical systems/components using SolidWorks, including part & assembly modeling.
Select and design fluid power components such as hydraulic power units, manifolds, valving, piping, and actuators.
Analyze operating loads of equipment using hand calculations, spreadsheets, and measuring systems & tools.
Size fluid power systems and components for safety and reliability through comprehensive analysis (including FEA).
Material selection, component detailing for manufacturing, including tolerance, fits, and GD&T specifications.
Assist with quoting and procurement-compiling documents required for manufacturing such as bill of materials and budgets.
Manage projects, overseeing external contractors/vendors, and coordinating with internal personnel for assembly and integration.
Direct production staff on equipment usage and maintenance best practices.
Troubleshoot complex fluid power and control systems.
Reverse engineer and redesign hydraulic/mechanical components, ensuring compliance with codes and safety regulations.
Responsible for the startup of new and updated equipment.

Minimum Position Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering.
At least 1-3 years of experience specializing in Fluid Power Systems.
In-depth knowledge of hydraulic design/components and their impact on machine control system performance.
Exceptional troubleshooting capabilities and hands-on skills.
High level of mechanical aptitude and innovative thinking.
Proficiency in blueprint reading, tolerances, material selection, and understanding manufacturing processes.

Preferred Qualifications:

Advanced knowledge and application of SolidWorks for designing parts, large assemblies, and detailed drawings.
Expertise in Structural Linear Finite Element Analysis (FEA).
Proven track record in project management and equipment procurement.
Experience in leading multiple projects and coordination with manufacturing units.

Skills:

Advanced SolidWorks skills for 3D modeling and drafting.
Proficient in performing Finite Element Analysis focused on fluid dynamics and mechanical stresses.
Strong analytical skills, particularly in calculating and sizing fluid power components and systems.
Effective communication abilities for collaboration with engineering teams and external suppliers.
Capability to handle multiple projects and prioritize effectively.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.