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Mechanical Engineer

Watershed Foods LLC

Watershed Foods LLC

USD 90k-110k / year
Posted on Mar 26, 2026

Mechanical Engineer

Gridley, IL - Gridley, IL 61744

Overview

Salary Range
$90,000.00 - $110,000.00 Salary/year
Level
Experienced
Position Type
Full Time

Description

Job Summary:

We’re looking for a skilled and innovative Mechanical Engineer to help design, develop, and implement advanced mechanical systems in a factory environment. This role supports new equipment development, lean improvement projects, and new process design through hands-on work in design, procurement, testing, and real-world deployment.

You’ll work on projects that integrate automation, mechanical design, and manufacturing improvements to increase efficiency, precision, and reliability in a fast-paced, highly regulated food production environment. Expect a mix of research, prototyping, troubleshooting, and implementation on the production floor.

Qualifications

Key Responsibilities:

Build Cool Things (Design & Development)

  • Use 3D CAD (SolidWorks or similar) to design parts, assemblies, and systems that can actually be built and maintained.

  • Create clear drawings with proper tolerances, materials, and specs so designs work the way they should in production.

  • Run practical engineering checks for strength, heat, flow, motion, and fit, and help troubleshoot when designs don’t behave in the real world.

Make It Work in the Real World (Manufacturing & Supplier Development)

  • Work directly with production teams and suppliers to solve problems, improve designs, and keep projects moving.

  • Review parts for machinability, welding, assembly, and cost to make sure designs are realistic and buildable.

  • Help develop tooling, fixtures, and processes, and support continuous improvement that makes equipment faster, safer, and more reliable.

Keep Projects Moving (Project Management & Teamwork)

  • Work across departments to align project goals, priorities, and timelines.

  • Manage multiple projects at once while keeping schedules, budgets, and details on track.

  • Communicate clearly with engineers, production, suppliers, and leadership so everyone stays informed.

Make Things Better Every Day (Continuous Improvement & Innovation)

  • Look for ways to improve designs and processes to reduce cost, increase quality, and simplify production.

  • Stay current on new technology, materials, and manufacturing methods and bring ideas to the team.

  • Support testing, R&D, and new equipment development to keep factory operations moving forward.

Skills & Qualifications:

  • Strong 3D CAD skills (SolidWorks, Creo, Inventor, or similar) and the ability to design parts that work in the real world.

  • Good understanding of manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, fabrication, and assembly.

  • Comfortable working hands-on with the shop floor, suppliers, and prototypes.

  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot issues and find practical solutions.

  • Able to manage multiple projects and stay organized in a fast-moving environment.

  • Clear communicator who works well with engineers, operators, suppliers, and leadership.

  • Experience reviewing drawings, tolerances, and materials to ensure parts are reliable and cost-effective.

  • Motivated to learn, try new ideas, and continuously improve designs, processes, and equipment.

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.

  • 3+ years of experience in mechanical design, manufacturing, or engineering roles.

  • Experience in a manufacturing, automation, or product development environment preferred.

Benefits:

  • PPO or HSA medical benefits with Employer Contributions.
  • Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, Disability insurance.
  • 401K with a competitive company match.
  • 8 Holidays, Vacation accrual, PTO program, Parental Leave.
  • Attendance, Safety, Service Awards.
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program.
  • Uniform and Boots provision.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Chaplain Program.
  • Smart Dollar.
  • Company Events and Luncheons.
  • Paid Volunteer Days.
  • Referral bonuses.
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