Senior Product Development Engineer Location: Rock Island, IL (On-Site)
Overview: Seeking a hands-on Senior Product Development Engineer to lead the technical direction and product roadmap for next-generation industrial automation and welding systems. This role combines advanced mechanical design, project leadership, and strategic planning, with opportunities to grow into an Engineering Manager role.
Responsibilities:
Own 3–5 year product roadmap and platform development
Lead cross-functional teams from concept → prototype → production
Drive structural design, FEA, hydraulic integration, and motion control systems
Implement design-for-manufacturing (DFM) improvements and smart features
Mentor junior engineers and set engineering standards
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering (MS preferred)
8+ years in industrial machinery, capital equipment, or automation
Experience with structural weldments, motion systems, and power transmission
Proven project leadership and cross-functional collaboration
Preferred:
FEA, hydraulic design, servo motor/drive, PLC integration
Experience with robotics, welding automation, or lean product development
Why Join:
Lead product strategy with direct impact on growth and performance
Hands-on, high-visibility role in a fast-growing engineering-driven environment
Profit sharing targeted to 10-15K annually
Candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
Must be willing to relocate to the Rock Island area.
Apply directly: amy.dejong@gogpac.com
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.
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