Mechanical Controls Engineer
The Mechanical Controls Engineer at Confidential Client collaborates with cross-functional teams to develop, test, and optimize advanced machine systems, focusing on electro-hydraulic, powertrain, and drivetrain controls. This role involves hands-on work with modeling, simulation, testing, and data analysis to enhance machine performance, efficiency, and operator experience in off-highway equipment. The engineer supports product development from concept through production, integrating mechanical and control systems to deliver innovative solutions.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role Overview
Confidential Client is hiring a Mechanical Controls Engineer to join a cross-functional team supporting the development, testing, and validation of advanced machine systems. This full-time, on-site role in Center Grove, IA focuses on electro-hydraulic controls, powertrains, drivetrains, and machine performance — from concept through production. This opportunity includes a competitive benefits package and a pay range of $70,000–$100,000, commensurate with experience.
What You’ll Do (Responsibilities)
- Develop and validate control strategies for electro-hydraulic, powertrain, drivetrain, and implement systems.
- Evaluate and optimize machine performance through testing, analysis, and data-driven system tuning.
- Build and maintain mechanical and controls models using MATLAB, Simulink, and related tools.
- Conduct prototype and production machine testing, troubleshooting, calibration, and performance tuning.
- Analyze hydraulic, powertrain, and machine operational data to improve efficiency, reliability, and durability.
- Support development of machine architecture, system requirements, and performance specifications.
- Collaborate with mechanical design, software, and test engineers to integrate and validate systems.
- Perform root-cause analysis and resolve machine performance issues.
- Translate customer and field feedback into measurable product improvements.
- Produce engineering documentation, test reports, validation plans, and system performance summaries.
Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Robotics, or a related engineering field.
- Fundamental understanding of machine systems (hydraulics, powertrains, drivetrains, thermodynamics, or vehicle dynamics).
- Practical experience via internships, co-ops, academic projects, or professional roles involving mechanical systems, testing, or product development.
- Familiarity with modeling and simulation tools such as MATLAB and Simulink; exposure to ANSYS, Amesim, or similar is a plus.
- Experience collecting, analyzing, and interpreting engineering test data.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and mechanical problem-solving skills.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills; able to work in multidisciplinary teams.
Desired Attributes
- Experience with mobile equipment, agricultural, construction, mining, or other off-highway machinery.
- Knowledge of hydraulic system design, performance analysis, and troubleshooting.
- Familiarity with powertrain systems, transmission systems, or machine implement controls.
- Field, lab, or vehicle testing experience.
- Proficiency with data acquisition systems, instrumentation, sensors, and diagnostics.
- Exposure to control systems development, machine automation, or robotics.
- Experience with tools such as Simscape, CANalyzer, CANape, or Amesim.
- Hands-on experience operating or testing heavy equipment and machinery.
Compensation & Benefits
- Pay Range: $70,000–$100,000 (commensurate with experience)
- Health and dental insurance
- TeleDoc/virtual care
- Supplemental vision insurance
- Company-paid life insurance and long-term disability
- Short-term disability
- Retirement savings (Traditional & Roth 401k)
- Flexible spending and HSA options
- Bonus plan (where applicable)
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Bereavement leave; Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Education assistance and professional development opportunities
Location & Work Type
- On-site — Center Grove, IA (this listing is for roles located in Center Grove, IA)
- This position does not offer visa sponsorship.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
Negotiate a higher salary! Check the salary ranges for this job type in your area.
View My Salary Range