R&D Engineer in Ocala, Florida at FIDELITY MANUFACTURING

R&D Engineer

Reports to: Chuck Clark

Shift: 1st shift, Mon-Fri, Full-time

Hours: 8:00 - 5:00 PM

Location: Ocala, FL

Employee Perks

• As a team member at Fidelity Manufacturing, you'll enjoy:
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Paid Holidays and Sick Time
• Career advancement and bonus opportunities
• Fun Events!
• Paid vacation days
• 401K
• Learning and Development
• Profit Sharing

About Us

FIDELITY MANUFACTURING is part of the backup Power Generation Industry. We design and build back up power packages (to include tanks and enclosures) for large and small health, industrial, and technology-oriented businesses that cannot have a power lapse at any time.

Position Summary:

The R&D Engineer is responsible for researching, designing, prototyping, and evaluating innovative product concepts and process improvements that align with Fidelity Manufacturing’s long-term goals. This role combines creativity, technical expertise, and project management to explore new technologies and bring innovations to market.

The R&D Engineer works closely with cross-functional teams across Fidelity, including Operations, Quality, Service, Finance, and Safety, to ensure final project deliverables meet requirements and are successfully implemented for both internal stakeholders and customers.

Essential Functions

• Daily job responsibilities/functions to include, but not limited to:
• Design and prototype new product concepts and engineering solutions using 3D CAD (SolidWorks preferred) and rapid prototyping tools.
• Research emerging technologies, materials, and methods applicable to Fidelity’s product lines.
• Manage projects using a stage-gate process (ideation, feasibility, design, validation, launch, and review).
• Develop design concepts, testing procedures, and results, and generate all associated technical documentation.
• Incorporate Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles into all designs to ensure smooth transition to production.
• Ensure cross-functional alignment prior to product launch to support a successful and efficient rollout.
• Collaborate effectively across departments and lead by example to build strong working relationships.
• Assist in developing and maintaining engineering standards, testing protocols, and technical documentation.
• Support compliance and maintenance of required agency certifications (ISO, UL, DBPR, etc.).
• Manage R&D projects including scope development, ROI evaluation, budgeting, and timeline execution.
• Maintain awareness of industry trends, competitive products, and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Product Design, or a related technical field.
• 2–5 years of experience in R&D, product development, or design engineering.
• Hands-on experience with CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) and prototyping techniques.
• Experience with testing methodologies and analysis of complex systems.
• Strong problem-solving ability with a creative, solution-oriented mindset.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes such as machining, forming, and welding is a plus.
• Ability to navigate ambiguity, define project milestones, and deliver results.

Equipment/Machinery Used

Computer, copier, and other office equipment.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to stand and/or sit for long periods of time; walk on non-forgiving surfaces such as concrete, wood, and metal (to include metal or fiberglass ramps placed on 30 degree angles); climb stairs, balance, climb, stoop, crouch, and crawl; walk on hilly and uneven ground; use hands to handle and feel; reach with hands; lift push, pull, and/or move more than 20 lbs. without a mechanical aid; and communicate with others Work environment is a manufacturing warehouse atmosphere with extreme temperature changes, loud noises and machinery with moving parts. The work environment could also involve some outside exposure.

Wear the appropriate PPE for the area you are in.