Lead Mechanical Engineer

Salary: $150,000 - 200,000/yearWe are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer to oversee the design, development, and testing of complex hydraulic systems for our [products/equipment/platforms]. This role involves leading engineering projects from concept through production, providing technical expertise in hydraulics, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring robust system integration across mechanical, fluid, and control domains. The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of hydraulic components and circuits, excellent problem-solving skills, and a passion for delivering reliable and efficient systems in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of hydraulic systems including pumps, motors, valves, actuators, cylinders, hoses, and fittings.
• Develop and review hydraulic schematics, system architectures, and mechanical layouts using CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, or AutoCAD).
• Ensure systems meet performance, durability, safety, and compliance requirements (ISO, SAE, etc.).
• Serve as the technical lead for hydraulic system development projects from concept through production.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (electrical, controls, manufacturing, procurement, quality) to ensure successful system integration.
• Manage timelines, design reviews, and deliverables for hydraulic engineering tasks.
• Develop test plans and oversee prototype testing for hydraulic systems in lab and field environments.
• Analyze test data, troubleshoot system issues, and implement design improvements.
• Ensure designs meet reliability, noise, efficiency, and thermal performance requirements.
• Generate and maintain engineering documentation including BOMs, schematics, DFMEAs, and test reports.
• Support the development and implementation of engineering best practices and design standards related to hydraulic systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 7+ years of experience in mechanical engineering with a strong focus on hydraulic systems.
• Proficiency in hydraulic circuit design, fluid dynamics, and component selection.
• Hands-on experience with CAD software and hydraulic modeling tools (e.g., Automation Studio, Simcenter Amesim, or MATLAB/Simulink).
• Solid knowledge of applicable industry standards (e.g., ISO 4413, SAE J517, NFPA).
• Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills.