R&D Engineer

Landscape Structures•Delano, MN

11h•Onsite

About The Position

Responsible for exploring and developing early stage product and process ideas through engineering design, experimentation, and prototype development. This role designs, builds, and tests concepts to evaluate feasibility and reduce technical risk. This position requires a hands on iterative engineering approach where ideas are quickly translated into physical prototypes to understand what works, what fails, and what should move forward. The fail fast and move on to find solutions and learning is required in this position. Communicates findings and technical direction with internal teams across the organization to help define solutions that can transition to final development.

Requirements

Experience in product development, fabrication, manufacturing engineering, or prototype development.
5+ years of related experience.
Hands on experience with fabrication methods such as welding, machining, forming, and mechanical assembly.
Knowledge of common manufacturing processes including fabrication, welding, machining, and assembly.
Proficiency with 3D CAD modeling software such as SolidWorks preferred.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical documents.
Strong communication and documentation skills.
Experience working in manufacturing or product development environments preferred.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.

Nice To Haves

Creativity with the ability to generate new ideas and explore alternative solutions.
Independence and the ability to work effectively with minimal direction.
Strong problem solving skills and the ability to develop practical engineering solutions.
Curiosity and willingness to investigate multiple ways to solve problems.
Hands on engineering capability including designing, fabricating, and modifying prototypes.
Adaptability when working in evolving project environments.
Mechanical knowledge including machines, materials, and fabrication processes.
Working knowledge of design utilizing all LSI materials and processes (fab/weld, rotational molding, permalene, etc.).

Responsibilities

Develop design concepts and prototype solutions for new product and manufacturing ideas across multiple product areas.
Create mechanical designs and layouts using 3D CAD software.
Build and assemble prototypes using fabrication methods including welding, machining, and mechanical assembly.
Design and conduct experiments to evaluate feasibility, performance, and durability.
Translate project goals into practical engineering solutions with limited direction.
Research materials, fabrication techniques, and technologies to support development.
Explore alternative approaches to solve technical challenges.
Communicate technical findings and development progress with internal teams.
Document prototype designs, testing results, and lessons learned.
Maintain organized records of prototype builds and experiments.
Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.