This role is based in Minneapolis, MN, and will require relocation to this area. The company will assist with relocation expenses. 

Our client designs and builds custom manufacturing systems for unique and challenging industry needs. They are seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer. In this role, you will shape the future of their automation technology, set the standard for mechanical design excellence, and drive innovation across the company. This is a leadership role that goes beyond individual projects. Your technical vision will influence their processes, standards, and long-term strategy.

Position Summary:
As a Principal Mechanical Engineer, you will serve as the technical authority for mechanical engineering, guiding and mentoring senior and mid-level engineers while fostering a culture of innovation, best practices, and technical rigor. You will lead complex design projects from concept through detailed engineering, collaborating closely with Controls, Software, Manufacturing, Project Management and Sales teams to ensure that solutions meet customer requirements and the company’s high standards.

Your work will include driving proof-of-concept prototypes, feasibility studies, and lab validation, all while pushing the boundaries of automation technology and solving the most challenging engineering problems. You will also lead internal and external design reviews and occasionally travel to customer sites to provide hands-on technical leadership, troubleshoot complex systems, and support installation and commissioning.

In addition to technical project leadership, you will provide strategic guidance on new business initiatives, identifying opportunities for innovation, improving reliability, and expanding their capabilities in life sciences and automated assembly. You will define and refine mechanical design standards and scalable processes that improve efficiency, repeatability, and quality across the company.

Requirements:

• BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering
• 12+ years of experience designing advanced automated systems, with demonstrated leadership on high-impact projects
• Mastery of 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks preferred) and advanced methodologies to design assemblies, machined parts, welded fabrications and sheet metal components
• Experience sizing, selecting and deploying common automation components, including servo motors, pneumatics, photoelectric/laser and proximity sensors, and robotic packages
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, mentor engineers, and drive complex projects to successful completion
• Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and organizational skills
• US Person

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience designing high-speed and/or high-volume automation machinery
• Large-scale, modular automated systems experience ($10M+)
• Precision tooling design experience
• Experience with cam-driven or continuous-motion automation systems
• Working knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing and its application to tooling design
• Experience working in a regulated environment (ISO 9001/ISO 13485)
• Experience establishing and improving engineering standards, processes, and best practices

The company provides a forward-thinking benefits program that includes: 401(k) & matching; Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance; Disability & Life Insurance; PTO, Paid Holidays, & Parental Leave for both Parents; Tuition Reimbursement.

Note: To comply with state laws, the annual base salary range for this position has been provided as a guideline. The final salary offer will be determined based on factors such as work experience, education/training, key skills, and other considerations.