Project Engineer

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.