Mechanical Engineer II

The Mechanical Engineer II at Coperion is tasked with designing new machines and improving existing ones for food production. Key responsibilities include leading projects across mechanical and thermal engineering, supporting aftersales with equipment upgrades, and ensuring the creation of accurate technical documentation. The role also involves collaborating with sales to provide engineered solutions and maintaining high standards in design and quality.

To qualify for the Mechanical Engineer II position at Coperion, applicants should hold a Master's or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering. Additionally, five years of experience in food equipment design and knowledge in thermal dynamics are preferred. Familiarity with industry safety standards and proficiency in 3D modeling tools like Inventor or NX is also important.

A Mechanical Engineer II at Coperion must be proficient in 3D modeling software (such as Inventor and NX), 2D drafting, AutoCAD products, and Microsoft Office. Strong technical documentation skills are essential for converting design drawings into the Epicor ERP system and preparing equipment lists for project management.

Yes, the Mechanical Engineer II role at Coperion involves travel as needed, particularly for site visits related to dough testing, project installations, and troubleshooting. Candidates should be prepared to travel independently and may need to be available during weekends or odd hours to meet project deadlines.

The work environment for a Mechanical Engineer II at Coperion is typically moderate in noise level, with potential exposure to manufacturing settings. Engineers will need to navigate various work surfaces, including stairs and ladders, and may be required to engage in tasks both in the office and on-site.

When designing a new machine, I begin by thoroughly understanding the client's requirements and objectives. I then conduct research on the necessary components, create initial design concepts using CAD software, and collaborate closely with other team members to refine the design. This iterative process ensures that the final design is both practical and innovative.

I have extensive experience using 3D modeling software such as Inventor and NX. I apply these tools not only for creating detailed designs but also for simulating how parts fit and function together. This proficiency has allowed me to expedite the design process and improve the accuracy of my work.

I stay updated on current safety regulations and industry standards relevant to mechanical engineering, such as OSHA and NFPA guidelines. During the design phase, I incorporate these standards into my work to ensure compliance. Additionally, I collaborate with safety officers and undergo regular training to maintain awareness of best practices.

Yes, in a previous project, we faced persistent issues with a machine's efficiency. I led a team to conduct a thorough analysis which involved examining each component for wear and damage. Through testing different configurations, we identified a misalignment that was causing the problem, which we corrected, resulting in improved performance.

I apply structured project management methodologies and tools to keep track of timelines, resources, and milestones. Regular communication with team members ensures everyone is aligned, and I use software like Epicor to manage project documents and costs effectively. Being proactive and adaptable allows me to navigate changes and maintain project flow.

I begin by breaking down the project into its components and estimating the cost of materials and labor required. I draw on my past experiences and industry benchmarks to provide accurate estimates. Additionally, I stay in close contact with suppliers to ensure that we remain within budget throughout the project lifecycle.

I thrive in cross-functional settings and regularly collaborate with sales, production, and maintenance teams. I find that clear communication is key to aligning goals and expectations, so I make it a point to keep everyone in the loop on project developments and incorporate feedback from different perspectives in my designs.

I prioritize projects based on deadlines and their impact on overall objectives. I use project management software to track progress and deadlines, attending regular team meetings to discuss priorities. This allows me to adjust my workload dynamically, ensuring that high-impact projects receive the attention they need while keeping everything on schedule.

A successful Mechanical Engineer in the food industry combines technical expertise with a strong understanding of food safety standards. They need to maintain high-quality design and manufacturing processes while remaining innovative and solution-oriented. Additionally, teamwork and communication skills are paramount as they often work across various departments to implement effective solutions.

I regularly invest time in professional development through webinars, workshops, and engineering journals. Networking with other professionals also provides valuable insights. I follow industry trends and emerging technologies closely to incorporate the latest innovations into my work, ensuring that I remain at the forefront of engineering practices.