Chief Engineer

Position Overview

Our Material Handling Division—spanning MiJack RTG cranes, Broderson industrial cranes, LiftKing forklifts, and Greenfield equipment—is hiring a Chief Engineer. In this role you will work within the engineering team on projects involving new, existing, and prototype designs, ensuring designs adhere to the latest codes and standards. You will focus on machine performance, reliability, safety, and standardization across product lines while collaborating with both internal and external customers in a dynamic and collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, conceptualize, and create mechanical designs for new and existing products.
• Evaluate mechanical and structural systems (machine structures, winches/gearboxes, motors, sheaves, drums, enclosures, operator’s cab) and assess tolerance stack ups while recommending class fits.
• Prepare component and system drawings, including layouts, assemblies, and installation drawings with proper annotations (dimensions, surface finishes, welds per AWS D14.1 or D1.1, and tolerance fits).
• Mentor engineers by providing guidance, feedback, and support both within the team and across supporting engineering groups.
• Perform and review engineering calculations, ensuring drawing completeness and adherence to standards.
• Collaborate with machine system development groups, vendors, and contractors to drive project success.
• Participate in departmental meetings, deliver technical specifications and updates, and communicate issues or new ideas.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, and environmental regulations striving for a goal of zero incidents.
• Maintain consistent internal and external communication and adhere to companywide policies to reduce liability.
• Undertake special projects or work as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Self-motivated with the ability to work with minimal supervision in a team environment.
• Detail oriented and capable of following customer specifications and industry codes.
• Proficient in working within a structured 3-D environment; 2-D design experience is a plus (knowledge of Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD, and SolidWorks is advantageous).
• Strong mechanical design skills including familiarity with manufacturing processes such as machining, cutting, welding, sheet metal fabrication, casting, and forging.
• Experience in reviewing industry codes and standards as well as understanding mechanical and structural connections (bolted, pinned, or welded).
• Working knowledge of bill-of-material management and Microsoft applications.
• Required Education: Accredited engineering degree with emphasis in mechanical or structural engineering and a minimum of 6+ years of relevant experience.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States on an unrestricted basis (no sponsorship available).

Preferred Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in the engineering discipline with a proven track record of leading multiple projects and teams.

Benefits & Perks

• Compensation: Base pay range of $110,000 to $140,000 (final offer based on experience, education, skills, and location).
• Competitive pay and paid time off.
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan.
• Relocation assistance available for positions in Hazel Crest, IL or Union City, TN, with potential for flexible work upon successful training completion.