Overview
Mechanical Engineering Manager (Hands On) Jobs in United States at Steelhead Inc
Title: Mechanical Engineering Manager (Hands On)
Company: Steelhead Inc
Location: United States
About Steelhead
Steelhead designs and manufactures custom bottling equipment, water treatment systems, and automation solutions for the bottled water industry. Our equipment is installed throughout North America and supports some of the most recognized brands in the industry.
We are seeking a hands-on Engineering Manager to lead our mechanical engineering department while actively participating in the design and execution of custom machinery projects. This position is ideal for an experienced engineer who enjoys solving complex technical challenges, leading a small team, and seeing projects move from concept through installation.
Position Summary
This is not a traditional corporate management position. The Engineering Manager will lead a small engineering team of one to two direct reports while remaining actively involved in equipment design, project execution, customer interaction, and technical problem-solving.
The successful candidate will spend the majority of their time engineering and designing custom equipment while providing leadership, mentorship, and direction to the engineering department.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design and development of custom bottling, water treatment, and automation equipment
- Manage engineering projects from concept through manufacturing, installation, and startup
- Supervise, mentor, and develop a small team of mechanical designers and engineers
- Review and approve engineering drawings, assemblies, and bills of material
- Collaborate with sales, manufacturing, purchasing, controls engineering, and field service teams
- Participate in customer meetings, project reviews, and technical discussions
- Support equipment troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives
- Establish and maintain engineering standards, processes, and documentation
- Assist with project scheduling, resource planning, and workload management
- Drive practical, cost-effective engineering solutions that support company growth
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
- 10+ years of mechanical design experience in industrial equipment, automation, machinery, or related industries
- Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred
- Strong proficiency with SolidWorks or comparable 3D CAD software
- Experience creating manufacturing drawings and bills of material
- Strong understanding of machine design, fabrication, machining, welding, and assembly processes
- Experience with pneumatics, conveyors, motors, gearboxes, bearings, and industrial automation equipment
- Excellent communication and project management skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
Preferred Experience
- Bottling equipment
- Food and beverage manufacturing systems
- Water treatment equipment
- Robotics and automation systems
- Custom machinery or OEM equipment manufacturing
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Performance-based bonus opportunities
- Health insurance
- Paid vacation and holidays
- Retirement plan
- Opportunity to play a key leadership role in a growing company
- Ability to directly influence products, processes, and company success
Travel
Occasional travel to customer sites for project reviews, installations, and support.
Steelhead is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
