Job Description
Project Engineer - (Hybrid) Knoxville, TN - (Remote) West Michigan
DISHER is currently partnering with an innovative thermal management solutions company in search of a Project Engineer to join their team. This organization focuses on advanced cooling technologies that help customers improve performance and efficiency across a range of industries. They are a fast-growing startup innovating the best process cooling equipment in the industry, and they’re looking for a Project Engineer to join their growing team. In this role, you’ll lead the technical execution from concept through production release for our chiller products, working cross-functionally with engineers, sales, manufacturing, and supply chain teams.
This role may be either hybrid in Knoxville, TN area or remote from West MI.
What it’s like to work here:
The company is values-driven and focused on delivering cutting-edge cooling solutions through innovation, precision, and collaboration. Team members operate in a fast-paced, hands-on environment where they are encouraged to take ownership, contribute ideas, and continuously improve processes. You’ll join a growing, team-oriented organization that emphasizes both professional development and measurable results while maintaining an entrepreneurial and forward-thinking culture.
What you’ll get to do:
- Lead engineering activities across product development phases: concept, detailed design, prototype, pilot, and production release.
- Translate product requirements into robust, manufacturable designs; create/approve engineering drawings, BOMs, CAD models, and specifications.
- Develop and execute New Product Introduction (NPI) plans (timelines / deliverables).
- Track project status (schedule, risks, costs) and report to stakeholders; escalate critical issues and propose mitigation plans.
- Collaborate with mechanical/electrical/software engineers, suppliers, procurement, and operations to meet project objectives.
- Perform and/or direct the efforts of other engineers to design and develop components, assemblies, and systems using SolidWorks vaulted and managed in 3DExperience.
- Maintain engineering / project documentation.
- Lead formal design reviews (concept, detailed, production readiness).
- Champion Design for Manufacturability and Assembly (DFM / DFA).
- Perform engineering calculations, DFMEA, FEA and simulations to validate designs and ensure safety, reliability, and performance.
- Prototype, test, and iterate hardware; create and execute test plans; analyze test data and implement design changes.
- Work with suppliers and manufacturing to support production ramp-up, product & process development, and cost reduction.
- Lead change control for engineering revisions and coordinate ECOs with production and suppliers.
- Troubleshoot field and production issues; provide root-cause analysis and corrective actions.
- Ensure product designs meet applicable regulatory, safety, and quality standards.
- Mentor junior engineers and contribute to design standards development and other continuous improvement initiatives.
What will make you successful:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace Engineering or related field (or equivalent work experience)
- 8+ yrs experience designing, launching (NPI) and supporting products in a manufacturing setting, including supporting / interfacing with production personnel and systems (e.g. ERP/MRP, ISO or similar quality systems, etc.).
- Proficient with SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD.
- Proven experience leading design reviews and cross-functional technical meetings.
- Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
- Excellent cross-functional communication and project management skills; able to coordinate multiple concurrent projects.
Preferred Qualifications
- Working knowledge of PLM/PDM systems (e.g. 3DExperience, SW PDM, Windchill, Teamcenter).
- Knowledge of materials and relevant manufacturing processes (sheet metal, machining, injection molding).
- Working knowledge of plumbing & hydraulics.
- Familiarity with refrigeration cycle thermodynamics.
- General understanding of industrial electrical and electronics systems and components (e.g. industrial power supply & device protection, relays, motor drives, safety, wire sizing, industrial communications, controllers, etc.).
- Background in Lean Product Development principles & tools.
- Basic budgeting and cost containment skills.
- Basic understanding of UL certification process.
- Working knowledge of ISO 9000 (or similar quality system) design requirements.
- Resilience working in a fast-paced, evolving startup environment with shifting priorities.
Physical Requirements
- Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds and work with prototype hardware.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
