Design Engineer in Rice, Minnesota at Virnig Manufacturing, Inc.

Virnig Manufacturing is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Design Engineer to join our Product Engineering Team. This position is responsible for the design, development, and continuous improvement of skid loader and excavator attachments. The Design Engineer will create and maintain 3D models, engineering drawings, and technical documentation while supporting manufacturing, sales, marketing, and service functions.

The ideal candidate combines strong mechanical design skills with effective communication, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to delivering high-quality engineering solutions. This role requires the ability to balance performance, manufacturability, safety, and cost objectives throughout the product development process.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $80,000 – $100,000 annually

Benefits Package Includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with employer match
• Generous PTO including vacation and paid holidays
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Life insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Opportunities for growth and development
• Bonus opportunity

Core Responsibilities

• Utilize company-standard 3D CAD software to develop models, drawings, and assemblies.
• Create and maintain detailed 3D models, fabrication drawings, assembly drawings, and bills of materials used in manufacturing.
• Develop engineering solutions that meet performance, safety, manufacturability, and cost objectives.
• Perform finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate structural integrity, durability, and product performance.

Team and Culture Expectations

• Maintain a professional, positive, and respectful working relationship with coworkers, supervisors, and leadership.
• Collaborate effectively across departments.
• Support company goals and safety initiatives.
• Follow company policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field preferred.
• 2-5 years of engineering experience preferred, with preference given to candidates with machine design, test design, hydraulic systems, or electro-mechanical design experience.
• Experience working with 3D CAD design software.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of engineering principles.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office application.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
• Willingness to learn, ask questions, and continuously improve technical knowledge.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) software.
• Experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) or Product Data Management (PDM) systems.
• Experience designing welded fabricated products.
• Familiarity with Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles and production processes.
• Understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing)
• Experience with hydraulic systems or electro-mechanical equipment.
• Experience with prototype development and testing

Work Environment

This position operates in both office and manufacturing environments. Regular interaction with production personnel and manufacturing processes is required. Occasional time spent in the shop testing, evaluating, and supporting products may be necessary.

VIRNIG MANUFACTURING IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, marital status, familial status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, disability, military service, veteran status, gender identity, status with regard to public assistance, or any other class protected by law. The company provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with known disabilities, unless doing so would cause undue hardship for the Company.