Winchester Equipment Mechanical Engineer

Location: East Alton, IL

About the role

The Equipment Mechanical Engineer designs and improves mechanical systems for new and existing industrial automation equipment used in manufacturing small-caliber ammunition and components. This role develops creative engineering solutions that enhance efficiency, reliability, product quality, and safety while reducing operational costs. The Equipment Engineer supports the full project lifecycle—from concept development through implementation and ongoing operational support.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and design modifications to existing machinery to improve efficiency, reliability, safety, product quality, and cost effectiveness.
• Develop and prepare Capital Requests for equipment-related projects, leading efforts from concept through installation, commissioning, and support.
• Collaborate closely with vendors during quoting, design, and build phases to ensure equipment meets specifications and performance requirements.
• Assist Maintenance in troubleshooting mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems to support uptime and operational goals.
• Recommend and implement equipment and process improvements aligned with performance, safety, and quality objectives.
• Direct and coordinate internal teams and external contractors during installation of new equipment and during equipment upgrade projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from a school accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or equivalent international program.
• Overall grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale (unless 2+ years of recent, full-time engineering work experience).
• Minimum of 6+ months of related engineering co-op, internship, or full-time experience; three years of design-focused engineering experience preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with Inventor and AutoCAD preferred.
• Hands-on experience with mechanical troubleshooting of automation equipment preferred.
• Experience with power presses, packaging equipment, or parts-feeding systems preferred.
• Creative, self-motivated, and able to think independently to develop practical engineering solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to lead strategic initiatives while supporting daily operations in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across teams.

Location-Specific Requirements

• Successful vetting as an Employee Possessor in accordance with U.S. Department of Justice and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
• Access to ITAR controlled technical data; employment contingent upon ability to access ITAR data pursuant to an export license approved by the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls, if required.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship; individuals with temporary visas (e.g., E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, TN) are not eligible.

Pay

$91,100 to $116,000 depending on relevant experience.

Schedule

Onsite, Monday through Friday.