R&D Engineer - Protein Processing Equipment

Cozzini LLC•Elk Grove Village, IL

1h•$80,000 - $115,000

About The Position

Cozzini, LLC is looking for an R&D Engineer – Protein Processing Technology to join our growing innovation team. As a leading manufacturer of food processing equipment for the protein industry, we develop world-class machinery used to grind, mix, pump, emulsify, and process meat and protein products for customers around the globe. In this role, you'll play a key part in researching, designing, developing, and testing next-generation protein processing solutions. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you'll help create sanitary, high-performance equipment that improves efficiency, enhances product quality, supports food safety, and drives sustainability for our customers.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
Minimum of 3 years of R&D engineering experience, preferably within food processing, protein processing, industrial equipment, or capital equipment manufacturing environments.
Proven experience designing, developing, and testing industrial machinery or food processing equipment.
Proficiency with CAD software, including SolidWorks and AutoCAD.
Knowledge of sanitary equipment design principles and applicable industry regulations, including USDA and FDA standards.
Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced product development environment.
Willingness to travel as needed to support equipment testing, field trials, customer visits, and equipment installations.

Nice To Haves

Strong engineering fundamentals with experience in capital equipment, industrial machinery, food processing equipment, automation, or manufacturing environments.
Interest in protein processing technologies and commercial food production systems.
Ability to collaborate across mechanical, electrical, controls, and manufacturing disciplines.
Hands-on problem-solving skills with a passion for testing, troubleshooting, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

Research industry trends, customer challenges, and emerging technologies to develop innovative machinery and processing solutions for the protein industry.
Transform concepts into functional prototypes by conducting testing, evaluating performance data, identifying improvements, and supporting product launches.
Design, develop, and troubleshoot mechanical systems, including grinding, mixing, vacuum, pumping, conveying, and material-handling equipment.
Collaborate with electrical, controls, automation, and manufacturing teams to ensure successful product development and integration.
Apply sanitary design best practices and ensure equipment complies with applicable USDA, FDA, OSHA, CE, and food-processing standards.
Partner with Sales, Manufacturing, Quality, Service, and customers to develop solutions that address operational needs and market demands.
Support product improvement initiatives, intellectual property development, and technology roadmaps that strengthen Cozzini's position as an industry leader.