Entry Level Software Engineer Jobs in Portland, IN

Entry-Level Product Development Engineer – Hydraulic Actuation

Position Overview

We are seeking an Entry-Level Product Development Engineer to support the design, development, and improvement of hydraulic rotary actuators and related products.

This is a great opportunity for a recent Mechanical Engineering graduate or an engineer early in their career who is interested in product development, 3D CAD design, hydraulics, and manufacturing.

The ideal candidate is eager to learn, detail-oriented, and able to work both independently and as part of a team.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Product Development

• Assist with the design and development of new and existing products using 3D CAD software.
• Create and modify engineering drawings and models.
• Ensure designs meet application requirements and engineering specifications.
• Assist with selecting appropriate materials, tolerances, and manufacturing processes.
• Support design reviews and help resolve engineering action items.
• Assist with engineering calculations and product testing.
• Support FEA and other engineering analysis as needed.
• Review engineering and ERP bills of materials (BOMs) for accuracy.

Project Support

• Support multiple engineering and product development projects.
• Assist with project schedules, documentation, and follow-up activities.
• Communicate project updates and potential issues to senior engineering staff.
• Work with experienced engineers to develop solutions to technical challenges.
• Help ensure projects remain on schedule and meet quality requirements.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work with manufacturing, quality, sales, and other departments to support product development.
• Assist with troubleshooting and resolving manufacturing or product-related issues.
• Learn and apply principles of machining, manufacturing processes, GD&T, and engineering design.
• Maintain accurate engineering documentation.
• Provide technical support for customer-related questions when needed.

Learning & Continuous Improvement

• Develop knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
• Learn industry standards, engineering practices, and applicable regulations.
• Identify opportunities to improve product performance, quality, and manufacturing efficiency.
• Work closely with senior engineers and other team members to develop technical skills.
• Stay current with engineering technologies and product development practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering field.
• 0–2 years of engineering or product development experience preferred.
• New graduates are encouraged to apply.
• Basic understanding of mechanical design and engineering principles.
• Experience with 3D CAD software; Autodesk Inventor experience is a plus.
• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and engineering drawings.
• Familiarity with GD&T is a plus.
• Exposure to hydraulic or pneumatic systems is a plus.
• Experience with FEA is a plus.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability and willingness to learn new technologies and engineering processes.

Key Competencies

• Willingness to Learn: Eager to develop technical knowledge and engineering skills.
• Problem-Solving: Able to approach technical challenges logically and ask the right questions.
• Attention to Detail: Takes pride in producing accurate, high-quality work.
• Teamwork: Works effectively with engineers, manufacturing personnel, and other departments.
• Communication: Clearly communicates ideas, questions, and project updates.
• Organization: Able to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines.
• Adaptability: Comfortable learning new processes, software, and technologies.
• Professionalism: Demonstrates a positive, dependable, and team-oriented attitude.

Career Growth

This position provides an opportunity to build hands-on experience in product development, mechanical design, hydraulics, manufacturing, and engineering analysis while working alongside experienced engineers.