Mechanical Engineer

Zen Sherpa LLC • Saint Paul, MN

40d • Onsite

About The Position

A leading engineering design organization based in Little Canada, MN, we specialize in the development of industrial systems, heavy mobile equipment, and advanced mechanical technologies for demanding field environments. Our work centers on designing and engineering robust, high‑performance mobile machinery used across the construction, forestry, agricultural, and energy sectors. You’re a hands‑on, innovative Mechanical Engineer ready to take ownership of mechanical design projects from concept through prototype build and production release. You enjoy solving complex engineering problems, working directly with heavy mobile equipment, and collaborating with cross‑functional teams to deliver high‑quality designs on time. This role requires daily onsite collaboration at our Little Canada, MN facility to support prototype builds, design reviews, equipment tear‑downs, and cross‑functional engineering activities. As a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will lead the design, optimization, and validation of advanced mobile mechanical systems used in demanding industrial and oil & gas applications. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys hands‑on problem‑solving, mechanical creativity, and building equipment that performs reliably in high‑pressure, high‑load, and high‑cycle environments. This position is 100% on‑site at our Minneapolis–St. Paul facility. No remote or hybrid work is available.

Requirements

• BSME required; 3–7 years of mechanical design experience in machinery, mobile equipment, or industrial systems.
• Demonstrated design skills through assembly layouts, weldments, structural design, hand calculations, tolerance analysis, or FEA fundamentals.
• Customer‑centric mindset with strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to plan and execute design, analysis, prototype build, and testing activities.
• Fluency in at least one 3D CAD system (SolidWorks, Inventor, or Creo).
• Ability to evaluate design trade‑offs and approach problems from multiple angles.
• Strong commitment to process discipline, documentation, and continuous improvement.
• Proficiency with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for engineering documentation.
• Must work on‑site at our St. Paul, MN office; occasional travel up to 10%.

Nice To Haves

• CAD proficiency in SolidWorks, Inventor, or Creo; familiarity with multiple systems is a plus.
• Experience designing heavy equipment structures such as cranes, booms, frames, or high‑capacity weldments.
• Practical, hands‑on experience in manufacturing environments or related industries.
• Exposure to powertrain packaging, engine installation systems, hydraulic circuits, or electrical system layouts.
• Understanding of system‑level design for mobile or off‑highway equipment.
• Experience with Finite Element Analysis (ANSYS or similar).
• Background in hydraulic system design or electrical system routing.
• Exposure to heavy mobile equipment such as construction, agriculture, rail, or energy‑sector machinery.

Responsibilities

• Design new and innovative mechanical components and assemblies for mobile machinery, from clean‑sheet concepts through prototype test and launch.
• Integrate hydraulics, pneumatics, structural elements, powertrain packaging, and electrical subsystems using a structured systems‑engineering approach.
• Specify and define components ranging from brackets and gears to hydraulic circuits, powertrain elements, and full machine assemblies.
• Support clients by rapidly diagnosing focused areas of concern and developing practical, manufacturable solutions.
• Create detailed 3D models, layouts, weldments, and production drawings using modern CAD tools.
• Work with designers, manufacturing teams, and project engineers to meet timelines, resolve issues, and ensure design intent is carried through production.
• Assist with prototype builds, testing, and iterative design improvements.

Benefits

• Competitive Compensation: An attractive Annual Salary, commensurate with experience.
• Personal Time Off (PTO): Paid holidays, PTO, and flexible time off to recharge and maintain work-life balance.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with company match to secure your future.
• Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage.
• Disability Protection: Short-term and long-term disability plans for peace of mind.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior