Senior Mechanical Engineer IV - Stretch Wrapping Systems -Palletizer Division

Columbia Machine World Headquarters • Vancouver, WA

83d • $100,700 - $132,500

About The Position

Highly experienced and technically proficient Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, development, and optimization of mechanical systems, with a specialized focus on stretch wrapping technologies. This role combines advanced technical leadership with product line ownership in a fast-paced capital equipment environment. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in prestretch and post-stretch film mechanics, along with comprehensive experience designing complex automation and packaging machinery. This role requires cross-functional collaboration with product management, controls engineering, manufacturing, and field service teams. You will drive innovation in load containment, reduce consumable costs, enhance reliability, and support the successful commercialization of advanced wrapping systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent work experience.
• P.E. (Professional Engineer license) preferred.
• 10 or more years of relevant engineering experience in capital equipment, packaging, or automation systems.
• Minimum 7 years of hands-on experience specifically related to stretch wrapping systems and film mechanics.
• Experience with PDM and manufacturing software systems preferred.

Nice To Haves

• FEA (Finite Element Analysis) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and optimization of stretch wrapper mechanical systems including film carriage mechanics, prestretch gear ratios, and post-stretch tensioning.
• Serve as company expert on prestretch and post-stretch film technologies (film memory, film force, feed control).
• Configure roller systems and drive mechanisms for optimal prestretch ratios and consistent film performance.
• Collaborate with controls engineers to optimize feedback systems (e.g., dancer arms, analog sensors) and maintain consistent film stretch across various load types.
• Design load-specific wrapping profiles (e.g., fragile, lightweight goods) to maximize containment and minimize film waste.
• Lead full-cycle mechanical design of large and small assemblies using Autodesk Inventor and/or PTC CREO.
• Develop complete machine assemblies from concept, including hydraulic and pneumatic subsystems.
• Generate and manage Bills of Materials (BOMs), part numbers, and PDM structure.
• Integrate new vendor components and systems into product designs.
• Estimate costs and timelines for engineering projects and support Application Engineering with custom system proposals.
• Own and manage a CPD equipment product line and support aftermarket part sales, conversions, and retrofits as full engineering projects.
• Mentor junior engineers and field technicians in film mechanics, diagnostics, and mechanical system design.
• Support field service teams with troubleshooting and resolve mechanical and system integration challenges.
• Travel up to 20% to support customer sites, field testing, and product launches.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees