Lead Mechanical Engineer

RFA Engineering ( ) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking entry-level to experienced candidates to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidates will work with an experienced engineering staff using state‑of‑the‑art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer’s world‑class engineering and manufacturing facility located in Chattanooga, TN.

This is a full‑time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

The Lead Mechanical Engineer provides technical and project leadership for the development and improvement of forestry equipment products. This role supports the expansion of product solutions and plays a key role in delivering high‑quality, cost‑effective products aligned with business and growth objectives.

• Lead mechanical engineering activities across the full product development lifecycle, from concept through production and ongoing support.
• Plan and oversee engineering projects to ensure quality, cost, and schedule targets are met.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to engineering teams, supporting design decisions and problem resolution.
• Review and approve designs using standard engineering best practices such as design reviews, FMEA, and design‑for‑manufacturing principles.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams including manufacturing, quality, testing, supply chain, and service.
• Work closely with suppliers and development partners to support component and system integration.
• Develop and review CAD models, drawings, assemblies, BOMs, and technical documentation.
• Support continuous improvement of engineering processes, tools, and product designs.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• 15+ years of experience in mobile equipment product development; forestry equipment experience preferred.
• Strong leadership experience managing complex engineering projects and mentoring engineers.
• Broad technical knowledge of mobile equipment systems, including structures, hydraulics, powertrain, and electrical systems.
• Proficiency with CAD tools, engineering analysis methods, and enterprise systems.
• Familiarity with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and product compliance considerations.

• Experience in forestry, construction, mining, or other heavy equipment industries.
• Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across disciplines and global teams.
• Commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Pay Range: $90,000-$140,000 – Commensurate with experience

• Health and Dental Insurance
• Health Savings Account
• Tela Doc:
  Virtual Health Care
• Vision Insurance
• Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
• Company Paid Long‑Term Disability
• Supplemental Short‑Term Disability
• Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
• Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
• Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
• Education Assistance

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off road equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem‑solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.

Bachelors of Science or better in Mechanical Engineering or related field.

Equal Opportunity Employer
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