Project Engineer

Build innovative machinery. Build hands-on experience. Build your career in Topeka.

HF Rubber Machinery has been engineering and building industry-leading rubber mixing machines in Topeka for more than 60 years. We're adding a Project Engineer to support our growing workload and help design, refine, and support the equipment our customers rely on around the world.

If you're a mechanically minded problem-solver who enjoys both design work and rolling up your sleeves on the shop floor, this is a role where you can grow, contribute, and work on meaningful, complex engineering projects from day one.
What You'll Do

• Support projects from concept through production, working closely with machinists, assemblers, technicians, and other engineers.
• Create, revise, and check engineering drawings using SolidWorks and AutoCAD.
• Troubleshoot design and manufacturing challenges and collaborate with production teams to resolve issues.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, including job files, engineering changes, and material information in the MRP system.
• Provide technical support for in-house work and subcontracted components.
• Participate in equipment evaluations, site visits, and customer support trips (approx. 5-10 trips per year; occasional international travel).
• Learn the full machine lifecycle-from design to manufacturing to assembly-and develop into a versatile engineering contributor.

Who Will Succeed in This Role

You'll thrive here if you:

• Enjoy a mix of hands-on work and engineering design.
• Like to learn by doing, asking questions, and getting involved across the shop.
• Are comfortable with variety-no two projects or machines are the same.
• Can move between CAD work, project documentation, manufacturing support, and problem-solving with ease.
• Communicate well with production teams and are willing to get "in the mix" when needed.
• Want to grow in a company that gives engineers real autonomy and responsibility.

Skills & Experience We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering (or equivalent experience).
• 1-3 years of engineering experience in a manufacturing or mechanical environment.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks and AutoCAD.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and engineering documentation.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes, part design, and problem-solving methods.
• Familiarity with SAP is helpful.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Willingness to travel for site visits, equipment evaluations, or project support.

Work Environment & Schedule

• Monday-Friday - Standard hours: 8 AM - 5 PM (flexible scheduling available)
• Some remote flexibility after 6 months depending on workload and circumstances
• Hands-on environment with exposure to machining, fabrication, assembly, and testing
• Collaborative engineering team with opportunities to learn and grow

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $65,000 to $75,000
• Paid Vacation & Sick Leave
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Company-paid Life & Disability Insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Student loan repayment assistance
• Wellness and employee support programs
• Relocation assistance available

Why Engineers Choose HF Rubber

• Decades of stability with a growing engineering team
• Hands-on development and exposure to full machine lifecycle
• Work with a wide range of mechanical systems and complex assemblies
• Autonomy to take ownership of your projects
• Strong team culture rooted in craftsmanship, collaboration, and doing things the right way

Ready to Apply?

If you're looking for a role where you can contribute immediately, deepen your mechanical engineering skills, and be part of a team that values curiosity and initiative, we'd love to meet you.

Please Note: We kindly request that third-party recruiters and agencies refrain from contacting our hiring team regarding this position. We are not seeking additional support for this role at this time.