Mechanical Engineer

About the role

The Mechanical Engineer for Electric Motors and Generators plays a critical role in the design, development, and optimization of IDEAL's high-performance rotating electrical equipment. Using advanced engineering principles and analysis tools, this position is responsible for the mechanical design aspects of motors, generators, and related components to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and manufacturability. Working within the Engineering department, this role collaborates with electrical engineers, manufacturing, purchasing, quality personnel, sales, and service teams to deliver products that meet customer specifications while maintaining IDEAL's reputation for quality and reliability.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical components and systems for rotating electrical equipment including motors, generators, and associated equipment
• Perform detailed mechanical engineering calculations and analysis to ensure structural integrity, thermal management, and vibration control of rotating equipment
• Create and validate computer models using FEA (Finite Element Analysis) to simulate mechanical behavior and thermal performance
• Collaborate with electrical engineers to ensure proper integration of mechanical and electrical systems
• Work with mechanical designers to develop detailed drawings and documentation for manufacturing
• Evaluate and select appropriate materials, bearings, components, and accessories based on performance requirements, cost, availability, and manufacturability
• Engineer considering various cooling methods including open ventilation, force ventilated, TEWAC, TEAAC, water jacket, cooled systems based on application requirements
• Conduct design reviews and implement design modifications as needed to improve performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues in products and develop solutions to improve products and services
• Participate in testing and validation processes
• Support manufacturing with technical expertise during production and assembly processes for new and repair projects
• Develop and maintain design guidelines and engineering standards
• Research and implement new technologies and methodologies to enhance product performance and manufacturing efficiency
• Provide technical support for field service operations and customer inquiries
• Share technical knowledge and best practices with engineering colleagues and support professional development

Qualifications & Competencies

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field is preferred but not required for candidates with extensive hands-on experience
• 5+ years of experience in mechanical design of rotating equipment, preferably in the electric equipment industry
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles related to rotating equipment, including structural analysis, dynamics, thermodynamics, and materials science
• Experience with 3D CAD software such as SOLIDWORKS®, Creo, or NX
• Proficiency with FEA and analysis tools for mechanical and thermal simulation
• Knowledge of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) and mechanical drawing standards
• Familiarity with electrical system fundamentals and electromagnetic principles as they relate to mechanical design
• Experience with design for manufacturing and assembly (DFMA) principles
• Understanding of industry standards relevant to rotating electrical machines (NEMA, IEC, IEEE, API, ABS, MIL STD, etc.)
• Excellent communication skills with ability to present technical information clearly to various audiences
• Demonstrated project management skills with ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously
• Technical literacy with demonstrated proficiency in:
• Microsoft 365 suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams)
• ERP systems for parts management and documentation
• PDM/PLM systems for design and product lifecycle management
• Work Management platforms for project tracking and collaboration
• Enterprise cloud-based content management systems for team collaboration and secure file sharing
• Exceptional attention to detail and time-management skills
• Experience with rotating machinery failure analysis and root cause investigation is a plus
• Passion for IDEAL's mission to preserve and advance American manufacturing and sustainment of specialized rotating electrical equipment

Working Conditions and Work Hours

• Daily minimum of 8 hours. Weekly 40 hour minimum.
• This position generally operates in a professional office environment.
• Occasional travel for customer meetings, supplier visits, or field investigations may be required (approximately 10-15%).
• The position may include visits to manufacturing facilities or test areas where PPE requirements must be followed.
• Physical requirements include standing, sitting, and walking throughout the workday, using hands to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls, reaching with hands and arms, stooping, kneeling, or crouching occasionally, and exhibiting specific vision abilities required by this job which include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• May occasionally need to walk through manufacturing areas to verify design concepts or validate measurements.

Additional Job-Specific Requirements

• Occasional extended hours may be required to meet project deadlines
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally if required for customer or supplier meetings