Mechanical Design Engineer (On-Site | Plant Environment)
Location: Decatur, IL
Type: Full-Time, On-Site
About Align Production Systems
At Align Production Systems, we design and build custom-engineered material handling solutions for complex industrial applications. Our work is hands-on, fast-paced, and highly collaborative — where engineering meets real-world execution on the shop floor.
We are an Engineer-to-Order organization, meaning no two projects are the same. Our engineers don’t just design — they own projects from concept through build and commissioning, working closely with manufacturing teams to bring solutions to life.
Position Summary
We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to join our team in a full-time, on-site plant environment. This role is ideal for an engineer who thrives in a hands-on setting, enjoys solving real-world problems, and wants to see their designs built and functioning in the field.
You will be responsible for the design and development of custom hydraulic systems and heavy material handling equipment, working directly with manufacturing and customers to deliver engineered solutions.
Key Responsibilities
Project Ownership
- Lead engineering projects from concept through fabrication, assembly, and final validation
- Ensure designs meet performance, cost, and timeline expectations
Hydraulic System Design
- Design and integrate custom hydraulic systems for heavy material handling equipment
- Select components (valves, cylinders, pumps, hoses) and develop system layouts
- Troubleshoot and refine hydraulic performance during build and testing phases
Hands-On Engineering
- Work directly in the plant environment to support assembly, testing, and commissioning
- Collaborate with technicians and manufacturing teams to ensure designs are practical and buildable
- Participate in debugging, problem-solving, and continuous improvement on the floor
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with manufacturing, controls, and sales teams to align engineering solutions with customer needs
- Engage with suppliers to identify and source optimal components
Customer & Supplier Interaction
- Support technical discussions with customers to clarify requirements and scope
- Work with vendors to develop and refine component solutions within design constraints
Documentation & Continuous Improvement
- Maintain accurate engineering documentation, drawings, and revisions
- Identify opportunities to improve design efficiency, cost, and performance
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field
- 3+ years of experience in a hands-on engineering or design role
- Strong experience with hydraulic systems design and troubleshooting
- Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)
- Solid understanding of:
- Manufacturing processes
- Mechanical systems and assemblies
- Heavy equipment or industrial machinery (preferred)
- Ability to work effectively in a plant/production environment
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to make decisions with incomplete information
What We’re Looking For
- Self-driven contributors who take ownership of projects
- Individuals comfortable working on the shop floor alongside technicians
- Practical thinkers who can balance design intent with real-world constraints
Why Join Align?
- Hands-On Engineering: Your work goes beyond design — you’ll see it built and operational
- Collaborative Environment: Work closely with experienced engineers and manufacturing teams
Apply Today
If you’re looking for a role where you can design, build, and solve real engineering challenges, we encourage you to apply and join the Align team.