Description Join a Legacy of Innovation At AKG, we are a 100+ year-old, privately owned leader in the heat exchange industry, providing state-of-the-art cooling solutions for critical infrastructure. As we continue to grow rapidly, we are seeking a dedicated, hands-on Design Engineer to support our operations and contribute to our success. If you are a proactive, detail-oriented individual with a strong work ethic and a desire to be part of a dynamic team, we want you to join us! Summary Reporting to the Manager of Design Engineering, this position serves as the steel fabrication subject-matter expert for the design department. The role provides technical leadership in the development, optimization, and cost modeling of fabricated steel components used in complex, high-value products. This engineer will lead efforts to improve design-for-manufacturability, develop internal should-cost modeling tools, and work closely with suppliers, purchasing, manufacturing, and analysis teams to ensure optimal technical and commercial outcomes. Essential Functions • Develop 3-D concept and detailed models in consultation with Application Engineering using Solid Edge (preferred) or SolidWorks • Serve as the design department’s technical authority on steel fabrication, including welding, forming, machining, and assembly methods • Evaluate application requirements and recommend optimized fabricated steel design solutions balancing performance, manufacturability, and cost • Lead the development and maintenance of an internal should-cost modeling tool for fabricated steel components • Work closely with Purchasing and the supply base to understand vendor capabilities, processes, and cost drivers, and incorporate these into cost models • Collaborate with other Design Engineers to identify structurally sound and cost-efficient design alternatives • Ensure designs comply with AKG modeling standards and applicable industry standards • Partner with Manufacturing and suppliers to resolve design and production challenges and improve manufacturability • Provide technical guidance to Design Engineers on steel fabrication best practices and cost-driven design decisions • Communicate effectively with engineering, sourcing, and leadership teams to support strategic decision-making Requirements Minimum Qualifications • BS in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited university • Strong experience designing fabricated steel components and assemblies • Demonstrated knowledge of welding methods, forming processes, tolerancing, and structural load paths • Experience working directly with suppliers or fabrication shops • Proficiency in CAD modeling (Solid Edge preferred) • Understanding of free-body diagrams, loading conditions, and FEA fundamentals • Experience with fastener selection and bolted joint design • High mechanical aptitude and hands-on engineering mindset • Strong written and verbal communication skills Preferred Qualifications (New Section – Helps You Target the Right Candidate) • Experience developing cost models, quoting tools, or should-cost analyses • Background working in steel fabrication, heavy equipment, automotive, or industrial machinery • Familiarity with supplier process audits or manufacturing capability assessments • Experience supporting value engineering or cost-reduction initiatives • Exposure to procurement or supply-chain collaboration Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities • Deep technical expertise in fabricated steel design and manufacturing processes • Ability to translate technical decisions into cost and sourcing impacts • Strong cross-functional collaboration skills • Ability to mentor and influence design direction across the team • Strategic thinking with attention to technical detail • Proficiency in engineering software and the Microsoft Office suite • Strong organizational and problem-solving skills Physical Demands • Must be able to sit (70%) and stand (30%) of the time • May also be required to bend, stoop, pull, push, twist and turn. • Must use safety equipment such as steel toe shoes and safety glasses when walking in the plant. Safety glasses are provided. • Travel (10%) to visit vendors may be required, on occasion. Primary Work Environment: Office environment