Mechanical Product Engineer

Position SummaryThe Mechanical Product Engineer is responsible for assuring design fit, form, and function of Hengst-Rexroth housings, and Hengst-made filter elements that are destined for Hengst-Rexroth or competitive Hydraulic housings. This role is also responsible for supporting the development, optimization, validation, and lifecycle management of hydraulic filtration products and related systems. The role requires a strong mechanical engineering foundation with an understanding of fluid dynamics and how mechanical equipment and hydraulic systems function together.This role focuses on the mechanical design, operation, and optimization of equipment and fluid systems, rather than traditional industrial engineering or production-line process optimization. This role works cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, Quality, Sales, Marketing, Purchasing, and international teams to ensure products meet customer requirements, technical standards, quality expectations, and cost objectives.The Mechanical Product Engineer contributes to successful product identifications and applications, as well as supports product launches, continuous improvement initiatives, and operational excellence while supporting the organization’s growth and customer-focused objectives.Key ResponsibilitiesFunctional ResponsibilitiesBe the primary information source in resolving hydraulic application questions, cross-referencing, and in-situ troubleshooting for customersSupport product development and engineering activities throughout the product lifecycleDevelop, maintain, and update product specifications, technical documentation, and engineering recordsCoordinate product validation, testing, , and continuous improvement initiativesProvide technical expertise related to hydraulic filtration products and hydraulic circuit functionalitySupport prototype development and customer application evaluationsCollaborate with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, Sales, and Marketing teams to support product launches and ongoing production requirementsAnalyze product performance, customer feedback, and market trends to support product improvementsEnsure products meet quality, regulatory, and customer requirementsOperational / Process ResponsibilitiesLead engineering change management and product improvement processesDevelop and maintain technical documentation, drawings, specifications, and validation recordsImplement continuous improvement initiatives related to product performance, manufacturability, quality, and cost reductionAnalyze and resolve technical and operational issues using structured problem-solving methodsSupport manufacturing teams in troubleshooting and process optimization activitiesLeadership & CollaborationPartner with cross-functional and international teams to support global product initiatives and projectsFoster a collaborative, customer-focused, and solutions-oriented work environmentProvide technical support and guidance to internal stakeholders and customers as neededManage and support technical services employees, including prioritization of work, technical guidance, performance support, and development activitiesFinancial / Strategic Responsibilities (if applicable)Support strategic product initiatives and operational improvement effortsAssist with cost reduction and product optimization activitiesSupport product decisions through technical analysis and market feedbackKnowledge, Skills & CompetenciesCore Competencies Problem-solving and analytical thinkingStrong communication and interpersonal skillsOrganizational and time-management skillsCollaboration and cross-functional partnershipCustomer-focused mindsetAbility to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentStrong initiative and accountabilityTechnical SkillsStrong understanding of product lifecycle management and engineering processesUnderstanding of hydraulic systems and hydraulic circuit functionalityExperience with product testing, validation, and troubleshootingProficiency in Microsoft Office applicationsFamiliarity with engineering documentation and change management processesQualificationsRequiredBachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline3–5 years of relevant mechanical engineering experience supporting product development, validation, and engineering activities in a manufacturing or industrial environmentStrong understanding of fluid dynamics and fluid flow principles required. Experience applying fluid dynamics concepts to equipment or industrial systems is highly preferred.Direct hydraulics experience is highly preferred but not required for candidates with a strong foundation in fluid dynamics and mechanical engineering.PreferredExperience working with international teams and global product initiativesExperience with hydraulic systems or hydraulic equipmentAdditional technical expertise related to filtration systems, fluid-handling equipment, fluid dynamics, hydraulics, industrial equipment, or mechanical systemsExperience in automotive, filtration, lubrication, air management, steel, pulp and paper, oil & gas, or other fluid-intensive industriesSuccess MetricsSuccessful execution of product development and improvement initiativesProduct quality and reliability performanceTimely completion of engineering projects and deliverablesCustomer satisfaction and responsiveness to technical support needsContribution to cost reduction and operational improvement initiativesWorking Conditions and Physical RequirementsOffice and manufacturing environmentExposure to manufacturing equipment and machinery as applicableAbility to sit, stand, or walk for extended periodsAbility to communicate effectively in both office and manufacturing environmentsAbility to occasionally lift materials or equipment as neededReasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.Travel Requirements Estimated travel: <25%Domestic and occasional international travel may be requiredDisclaimerThis job description outlines the general nature and level of work expected for this position and is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties may change at any time to meet business needs.Equal Employment OpportunityHengst of North America is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against employees or applicants on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.