Job Title: Senior Mechanical Engineer – DOT Terminal Tractor Design Specialist
Company: Forklift Exchange
Location: Bedford Park, Illinois
Job Summary
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Mechanical Engineer with a proven track record in designing DOT-compliant terminal tractors. If you have a deep understanding of DOT regulations and hands-on experience bringing these specialized vehicles to life, this is your role. You'll take the lead in developing the next generation of terminal tractors that push the boundaries of safety, performance, and efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
- Spearhead the design and development of innovative terminal tractor models, ensuring strict adherence to all DOT safety and performance standards.
- Create comprehensive engineering drawings, technical specifications, and bills of materials.
- Collaborate closely with manufacturing teams to streamline the transition from design to production.
- Proactively research and integrate new technologies and materials to optimize terminal tractor functionality and cost-effectiveness.
- Employ FEA (Finite Element Analysis) for rigorous validation of component and system-level structural integrity.
- Analyze and improve existing terminal tractor designs, constantly driving innovation.
- Maintain an expert-level understanding of evolving DOT regulations and proactively adjust designs for compliance.
Qualifications
- BS in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field (MS strongly preferred).
- Minimum of 3+ years of direct experience in DOT terminal tractor design.
- Unmatched knowledge of DOT regulations and a demonstrated history of producing compliant designs.
- Advanced proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar).
- Excellent FEA skills, with a focus on structural analysis of heavy-duty vehicles.
- Proven ability to manage complex engineering projects from concept to completion.
- Outstanding teamwork and communication skills, both written and verbal.
Desired Skills
- Working knowledge of diesel engine technology and powertrain systems.
- Understanding of ergonomics and how they apply to specialized vehicle design.
- Familiarity with manufacturing processes and DFMA (Design for Manufacturing and Assembly) principles.
To Apply
Please submit your resume and a portfolio (optional) highlighting your DOT terminal tractor design projects to luke@forkliftexchange.com, along with submitting through Indeed.
We Offer
- Highly competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunity to shape the future of the terminal tractor industry
- Collaborative and innovation-driven work environment.
- Potential for professional growth and leadership development.
Forklift Exchange is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $85,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Experience level:
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person