Mechatronics Engineer
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated Mechatronics Engineer to join our engineering team in a manufacturing environment. This position will support Research & Development initiatives focused on the design, development, integration, testing, and validation of advanced controls and mechatronic systems for terminal tractor product lines, including diesel, gas, and battery-electric vehicle (BEV) platforms. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with vehicle control systems, embedded controls, MATLAB/Simulink, CAN/J1939 communications, and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing. This role requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills, technical initiative, and the ability to collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, suppliers, and other cross-functional teams.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute engineering tasks under the direction of engineering management and senior mechatronics engineers.
- Develop and improve controls, mechatronic components, and systems for diesel, gas, and BEV terminal tractor platforms.
- Verify controls and mechatronic systems meet technical specifications, customer requirements, safety standards, and applicable regulations.
- Review and support approval of component, subassembly, and system drawings to ensure compliance with applicable engineering standards.
- Assist with the selection of design solutions, materials, components, and technologies for new product development.
- Develop control models and perform simulations using Simulation-in-the-Loop (SIL), Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL), rapid prototyping, and desktop simulation methods.
- Support design verification, testing, calibration, and validation activities.
- Develop functional diagrams and documentation to support controls development, troubleshooting, and system integration.
- Assist with resolving current production and field-related engineering issues.
- Collaborate with engine systems integration and engine development teams to test and validate vehicle control strategies.
- Work closely with manufacturing, engineering, purchasing, and suppliers to develop and procure components for prototype and production builds.
- Participate in Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Communicate technical information effectively with engineering teams, suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders.
- Support domestic and international travel as required for testing, development, supplier activities, and product launches.
Required Skills & Technical Qualifications
- Experience with MATLAB/Simulink, including exposure to embedded code development.
- Programming experience using C++, Python, or comparable programming languages.
- Experience with closed-loop control system design and calibration.
- Knowledge of Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing and control-system simulation.
- Experience with J1939 communications and vehicle networks.
- Familiarity with Vector CAN tools, including CANalyzer and CANCapture.
- Experience with Direct-to-Flash methodology for creating experimental flash files.
- Knowledge of vehicle controls and embedded systems development.
- Familiarity with Creo, Creo Schematic, and Windchill is preferred.
- Knowledge of Crank Storyboard or similar embedded display/control development platforms is preferred.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Education & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering required.
- Master's degree in Electrical Engineering preferred.
- Minimum 3 years of relevant engineering experience.
- Experience developing or supporting vehicle control systems.
- Experience working in or supporting a manufacturing environment.
- Experience with product development, testing, validation, or controls engineering is highly preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and take ownership of technical assignments.
- Strong technical leadership, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Working Conditions
- Primarily an office-based engineering position within a manufacturing environment.
- May require work in warehouse, production, prototype, and testing areas.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety shoes, safety glasses, and safety vest, is required in designated areas.
- Requires willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally.
- Flexible work schedules may be required based on project and testing needs.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to walk, sit, stand, crouch, and move throughout office, manufacturing, and testing environments.
- Ability to lift and carry materials or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work safely in manufacturing and prototype development environments.