Entry Level R&D Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Springfield, MO

Pay: $28 - $35 per hour, based on experience.

The Role

The Designer 2 – Panels is responsible for the detailed design, drafting, and documentation of sanitary transfer and utility panels used in food, beverage, dairy, pharmaceutical, and personal care processing systems. This position transforms engineering concepts into accurate 3D models, fabrication drawings, bills of material, and production documentation that meet customer specifications, industry standards, and CSI quality expectations.

Working independently on moderate-complexity projects, the Designer 2 manages multiple assignments simultaneously while ensuring designs are manufacturable, maintainable, and compliant with applicable standards such as 3-A and ASME BPE. This role collaborates closely with engineering, project management, manufacturing, and quality teams to resolve design challenges, support fabrication, and maintain project schedules.

About CSI

CSI provides state-of-the-art stainless-steel process equipment and service for manufacturers in the food, dairy, beverage, pharmaceutical, and personal care industries.

We are a growing company built on teamwork, continuous learning, and exceptional customer service. Our employees are our greatest resource, and we invest in their development through training, collaboration, and opportunities to grow.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Design and develop detailed 3D models, fabrication drawings, and bills of material for sanitary transfer and utility panels using Autodesk Inventor.
• Create panel layouts that meet customer specifications, 3-A, ASME BPE, regulatory requirements, and CSI design standards while ensuring manufacturability.
• Manage multiple panel design projects from concept through release, maintaining accurate revisions, documentation, and project schedules.
• Apply knowledge of process flow, instrumentation, utility systems, and sanitary design to optimize panel layouts for fabrication, operation, and maintenance.
• Support fabrication by providing complete drawing packages, technical documentation, and timely engineering assistance throughout production.

Education/Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Associate degree or technical diploma in Mechanical Design, Drafting & Design, or Engineering Technology, preferred
• Experience with Inventor - 4 years minimum, no older than 5 releases from current release, required
• Experience with Autodesk Vault Professional - 2 year’s minimum, no older than 4 releases from current release, required
• Prior mechanical design experience, required
• Sufficient custom design knowledge of sanitary process components, required
• Prior experience with BOM creation, revision control, required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Products, required
• AutoCAD (2-D and 3-D) - 2 years minimum, no older than 4 releases from current release, recommended

Why CSI

• Competitive compensation: $28-$35 per hour.
• Opportunity to work on specialized stainless-steel process systems across multiple industries
• Hands-on role with direct impact on quality, safety, and customer satisfaction
• Collaborative team environment focused on continuous improvement
• Career growth opportunities within installation, operations, and leadership teams
• Company culture centered on taking care of employees and customers

Benefits & Perks

CSI offers a competitive benefits package including:

• Health and wellness benefits
• Paid time off
• Retirement planning options
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education support
• Opportunities for internal career advancement
• Company lunches, team events, and community volunteer opportunities

Work Environment / Physical Requirements

This role is primarily office-based, Monday-Friday, with limited travel. It requires extended computer use, effective communication, and occasional movement within industrial environments. Light physical activity, including standing, bending, and lifting up to 20 pounds, may be required.

Equal Opportunity Employer

CSI is committed to equal opportunity employment. We select candidates based on their ability to perform the work in a competent and professional manner and do not discriminate based on age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or disability.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. CSI participates in E-Verify.