Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Location: Chicago/Milwaukee area (Rockford, IL)
Schedule: 40 hrs/week | Core hours 9 AM–3 PM CST
Duration: 6-month contract, potential to convert
Work Model: Onsite
Environment: Office + process facilities
Start Date: ASAP
 

The Sr. Mechanical Engineer will oversee the full lifecycle of mechanical equipment used in industrial gas-processing environments. This includes specification, design, procurement, commissioning, maintenance, and reliability improvement of rotating and static mechanical systems. The engineer will work cross-functionally with process, electrical, and controls teams to deliver safe, efficient project execution while supporting operations with high-level troubleshooting and equipment stewardship.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys a balance of technical design work and hands-on involvement in field activities, project execution, and continuous improvement.

• Own the full lifecycle of mechanical equipment: specification, selection, procurement, commissioning, and long-term support.

• Serve as SME for rotating equipment—compressors, blowers, and mixers—providing troubleshooting, reliability analysis, and maintenance recommendations.

• Ensure all pressure vessel and piping designs, changes, and repairs comply with ASME Section VIII, Div. 1 and ASME B31.3.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to scope, design, install, and commission mechanical systems.

• Support project engineering activities including scope development, contractor management, cost tracking, and schedule alignment.

• Provide hands-on involvement during installations, modifications, and maintenance events.

• Offer technical support to operations and maintenance teams to ensure safe, reliable system performance.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (Master’s preferred).

• 4–8 years of experience in an industrial, manufacturing, or chemical processing setting.

• Working knowledge of:

  • ASME Section VIII, Div. 1 (Pressure Vessels)

  • ASME B31.3 (Process Piping)

• Proven experience with industrial rotating equipment.

• Demonstrated “hands-on” mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.

• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work in industrial environments and travel up to 50%.

• Experience within environmental sustainability industries (biogas, renewable energy, waste treatment) is a plus.

• Understanding of commercial agreements and customer interaction preferred.

• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

• Direct experience with centrifugal blowers, oil-flooded screw compressors, industrial mixers.

• Project engineering or project management experience (cost, schedule, contractor oversight).

• Familiarity with gas processing, oil & gas, or chemical industries.

• Military technical training.

• Knowledge of industrial gases and pipeline safety.

• May lift up to 50 lbs.

• Safety-sensitive role; PPE provided.

• Potential exposure to chemicals after receiving required OSHA training.