Senior Project Engineer

Description

At Northern Tool + Equipment we get up every day to serve the tradespeople who keep our country running strong and the weekend warriors who want to work like them. It's our mission to make sure they have the right tools for the job, and an easy, hassle-free experience at our store so they can get in, get out and get on with the job r top priority as a Sr.

Project Engineer is to drive new product development and continuous improvement projects by technically leading cross functional teams through the product development gate process. This position will lead, direct and monitor design, technical architecture, and development of programs from concept to production to achieve program objectives within a specified time schedule. This includes generating and owning project deliverables including functional, PDR/CDR, technical specifications, communication documents, and toll gate presentations.

The Senior Project Engineer also leads the assigned engineering team and ensures and approves proper use of engineering tools and requirements. Your positive, professional, roll-up-your-sleeves-to-help attitude contributes to our winning culture and makes sure we leave a lasting impression.

This position is based in Burnsville, MN, with some travel expected to the manufacturing facility located in Faribault, MN.

Key Responsibilities:

Program & Project Leadership

* Lead multiple long‑term, high‑investment programs (typically 2-3 years) from concept through production launch.

* Develop and maintain project schedules aligned with business requirements.

* Manage project costs, timelines, and deliverables within the gated PDP process.

* Prepare and present project documentation, including requirements, design reviews, technical specifications, and tollgate materials.

Product Development & Engineering Execution

* Lead mechanical and electrical design activities using tools such as DFMEA, DRBFM, DFM, and PFMEA.

* Ensure all product requirements are clearly defined, documented, and met.

* Support component styling, sourcing, and manufacturing decisions with a focus on quality, reliability, cost, and timely delivery.

* Benchmark competitive products, materials, and processes to drive innovation and differentiation.

* Coordinate development, testing, drafting, and fabrication activities to meet program objectives.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

* Communicate regularly with cross‑functional partners to ensure alignment and timely execution.

* Provide technical support to internal teams, including manufacturing, marketing, sales, and service.

* Interact with customers, suppliers, consultants, and industry partners as needed.

Team Leadership & Mentorship

* Provide direction, coaching, and approval of work for engineers and designers.

* Monitor team resources and task assignments; collaborate with functional managers to resolve issues.

* Lead and participate in design reviews to ensure broad technical input and alignment.

Continuous Improvement & Problem Solving

* Analyze manufacturing and field issues; recommend and implement effective solutions.

* Support the development of promotional, marketing, and service materials with accurate technical information.

* Maintain awareness of emerging technologies, tools, and best practices to strengthen engineering capabilities.

What you will bring to the table:

* Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field required;
Master's degree preferred.

* 10+ years of experience in consumer product development and design.

* Proven technical leadership from concept through production within a structured product development process.

* Proficiency with Pro‑E/Creo preferred.

* Experience with FEA, GD&T, FMEA, and tolerance stack‑ups strongly preferred.

* Familiarity with project management tools and methodologies.

* Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

* Ability to influence across functions and drive alignment.

* Demonstrated commitment to quality, customer focus, and continuous improvement.

* Ability to apply broad engineering knowledge to solve complex technical challenges.

* Demonstrates Northern Tool + Equipment's 12 Core Competencies.

About Us

Northern Tool + Equipment is a…