At Northern Tool + Equipment we get up every day to serve the tradespeople who keep our country running strong and the weekend warriors who want to work like them. It’s our mission to make sure they have the right tools for the job, and an easy, hassle-free experience at our store so they can get in, get out and get on with the job at hand. Your top priority as a Sr. Project Engineer is to drive new product development and continuous improvement projects by technically leading cross functional teams through the product development gate process. This position will lead, direct and monitor design, technical architecture, and development of programs from concept to production to achieve program objectives within a specified time schedule. This includes generating and owning project deliverables including functional, PDR/CDR, technical specifications, communication documents, and toll gate presentations. The Senior Project Engineer also leads the assigned engineering team and ensures and approves proper use of engineering tools and requirements. Your positive, professional, roll-up-your-sleeves-to-help attitude contributes to our winning culture and makes sure we leave a lasting impression.

This position is based in Burnsville, MN, with some travel expected to the manufacturing facility located in Faribault, MN. 

Key Responsibilities:

Program & Project Leadership

1. Lead multiple long‑term, high‑investment programs (typically 2–3 years) from concept through production launch.
2. Develop and maintain project schedules aligned with business requirements.
3. Manage project costs, timelines, and deliverables within the gated PDP process.
4. Prepare and present project documentation, including requirements, design reviews, technical specifications, and tollgate materials.

Product Development & Engineering Execution

1. Lead mechanical and electrical design activities using tools such as DFMEA, DRBFM, DFM, and PFMEA.
2. Ensure all product requirements are clearly defined, documented, and met.
3. Support component styling, sourcing, and manufacturing decisions with a focus on quality, reliability, cost, and timely delivery.
4. Benchmark competitive products, materials, and processes to drive innovation and differentiation.
5. Coordinate development, testing, drafting, and fabrication activities to meet program objectives.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

1. Communicate regularly with cross‑functional partners to ensure alignment and timely execution.
2. Provide technical support to internal teams, including manufacturing, marketing, sales, and service.
3. Interact with customers, suppliers, consultants, and industry partners as needed.

Team Leadership & Mentorship

1. Provide direction, coaching, and approval of work for engineers and designers.
2. Monitor team resources and task assignments; collaborate with functional managers to resolve issues.
3. Lead and participate in design reviews to ensure broad technical input and alignment.

Continuous Improvement & Problem Solving

1. Analyze manufacturing and field issues; recommend and implement effective solutions.
2. Support the development of promotional, marketing, and service materials with accurate technical information.
3. Maintain awareness of emerging technologies, tools, and best practices to strengthen engineering capabilities.

What you will bring to the table:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in consumer product development and design.
• Proven technical leadership from concept through production within a structured product development process.
• Proficiency with Pro‑E/Creo preferred.
• Experience with FEA, GD&T, FMEA, and tolerance stack‑ups strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with project management tools and methodologies.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to influence across functions and drive alignment.
• Demonstrated commitment to quality, customer focus, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to apply broad engineering knowledge to solve complex technical challenges.
• Demonstrates Northern Tool + Equipment’s 12 Core Competencies.

About Us

Northern Tool + Equipment is a family business with roots stretching back three generations to Minnesota’s Iron Range, where our blue-collar work ethic and commitment to serving the people who do the tough jobs was born. Our mission is to be the best in the world at serving the professional tradespeople and those who want to work like them. With over 130 retail stores across 24 states, top national brands and global manufacturing operations designed to create our own specialized tools and equipment, we are busting our knuckles to deliver the products, prices and advice our customers need to succeed. We’re looking for people who share our blue-collar work ethic. If you’re the kind of person who likes to put your nose to the grindstone to help your customers and company succeed, we’d love to talk to you about becoming a member of our team.

Northern Tool + Equipment is proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Top Midsize Employer in 2023. We are committed to creating a workplace where your contributions are valued, and your professional growth is encouraged. When you join our team, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive and competitive compensation package that includes: 

• Competitive Pay: Earn $115,000 to $140,000 annually, with your exact compensation personalized based on your skills, experience, and location. We believe in rewarding top talent with pay that reflects your value. 
• Flexible Work Schedule: Achieve the work-life balance you deserve with our full-time, 8-hour shifts, Monday – Friday, complemented by a hybrid work schedule that allows you to work both remotely and in the office. 
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Your health and well-being are our priority. We offer a variety of health plans, so you can choose what best fits your needs. Employees working 30+ hours per week enjoy a robust benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and a 401(k) plan with an enhanced company match to support your financial future. 
• Generous Employee Discount: Love our products? So do we! Enjoy a significant discount on the quality tools and equipment we offer, helping you save on the items you love to use. 
• Get Paid on Your Terms: With our Daily Pay option, you don’t have to wait for payday—access your earnings whenever you need them for added financial flexibility. 
• Paid Holidays: Take time to relax and recharge with 7 paid federal holidays, because we know how important it is to have time for yourself and your loved ones. 
• Incentives: Be rewarded for eligible incentive programs.