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Fluid Power Engineering Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Pipefitter - Fluid Power Technician

Holland, MI ยท On-site

$24 - $30.75/hr

Pipefitter - Fluid Power Technician Hours: 8-10hrs a day, 5 days with a possible Saturday ... Plumb and assemble machines according to engineering prints and pneumatic circuit diagrams.

Pipefitter - Fluid Power Technician

Holland, MI ยท On-site

$24 - $30.75/hr

Pipefitter - Fluid Power Technician Hours: 8-10hrs a day, 5 days with a possible Saturday ... Plumb and assemble machines according to engineering prints and pneumatic circuit diagrams.

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Showing results 1-20

Fluid Power Engineering information

See Michigan salary details

$40.5K

$128K

$151.7K

How much do fluid power engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for fluid power engineering in Michigan is $128,009.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,500.00 and $150,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fluid Power Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fluid Power Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or hydraulic engineering, fluid mechanics, and system design, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, hydraulic simulation tools, and industry certifications like those from the International Fluid Power Society (IFPS) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and address complex system requirements. These skills are vital for designing efficient, safe, and reliable fluid power systems used in various industrial applications.

What are some typical challenges faced by fluid power engineers in project development, and how can they be addressed?

Fluid power engineers often encounter challenges such as system leakage, efficiency losses, and component compatibility during project development. Addressing these issues requires thorough system analysis, careful selection of compatible hydraulic or pneumatic components, and rigorous testing during the design phase. Collaborating closely with manufacturers, maintenance teams, and control engineers can help identify and resolve potential problems early, ensuring reliable and cost-effective solutions. Continuous learning about new technologies and industry standards also plays a key role in overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Fluid Power Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectFluid Power EngineeringMechanical Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical or Fluid Power Engineering, certifications like NFPA or FPEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, hydraulic and pneumatic system design labsFactories, design offices, research labs
Industry UsageHydraulic systems, pneumatic controls, fluid power systemsBroader mechanical systems, thermodynamics, structural design

Fluid Power Engineering focuses specifically on hydraulic and pneumatic systems, requiring specialized knowledge in fluid dynamics and control systems. Mechanical Engineering covers a wider range of mechanical systems, including thermodynamics, materials, and structural analysis. While both fields share foundational engineering principles, Fluid Power Engineers specialize in designing and maintaining fluid-based systems used in various industries.

What is fluid power engineering?

Fluid power engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the use, design, and maintenance of systems that transmit and control power through fluids under pressure, such as hydraulics (liquids) and pneumatics (gases). Fluid power engineers design components and systems like pumps, valves, actuators, and circuits used in machinery, vehicles, and industrial equipment. These systems are widely used in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and aerospace due to their efficiency and reliability in controlling force and motion. Fluid power engineers also work on improving the efficiency, safety, and environmental impact of these systems.
Infographic showing various Fluid Power Engineering job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $128,009 per year, or $61.5 per hour.
Fluid Power Systems & Applications Engineer

Fluid Power Systems & Applications Engineer

Depatie Fluid Power Company

Portage, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Why This Role Stands Out
This isn't a back-room engineering role. You'll be a visible, trusted technical partner-involved in conversations that shape solutions, influence customers, and drive real business outcomes.
What You Bring to the Table
If you're someone who wants to own your work, grow your expertise, and make a tangible impact, you'll fit right in.
You're the kind of engineer who doesn't just design systems-you connect people, ideas, and execution. You thrive at the intersection of customers, sales, and manufacturing, translating real-world challenges into smart, scalable fluid power solutions.
You're naturally curious and always learning. You take pride in mastering your craft, whether that's deepening your hydraulic expertise, earning certifications, or staying ahead of emerging technologies. You don't wait to be told what to do-you see opportunities to improve things and take action.
You're organized without being rigid, analytical without losing sight of the big picture, and confident enough to lead conversations with customers while humble enough to keep learning.
Most importantly, you follow through. When you commit to something, it gets done-accurately, on time, and with a level of quality that builds trust.
Requirements
How You Show Up
  • You think like an owner, balancing technical excellence with business impact
  • You communicate clearly and confidently, whether you're talking to a customer, a salesperson, or someone on the shop floor
  • You bring structure to complexity, managing multiple projects without letting details slip
  • You collaborate naturally, building strong relationships across teams and with external partners
  • You continuously improve, creating tools, templates, and processes that make the team better over time
  • You take initiative, identifying problems before they become issues and solving them proactively

Where You'll GrowThis role is built for someone who wants to level up their technical expertise and influence.
  • You'll deepen your knowledge in fluid power systems and work toward industry certifications (like IFPS Hydraulic Specialist within your first year)
  • You'll expand your impact beyond individual projects by helping standardize processes and improve how work gets done across the organization
  • You'll gain exposure across the full lifecycle-from concept and design to manufacturing and customer delivery

What You Bring
  • A strong foundation in fluid power, mechanical systems, or application engineering (degree or equivalent hands-on experience)
  • Real experience designing or working with hydraulic and/or pneumatic systems
  • Comfort with CAD tools like SolidWorks and creating technical drawings or schematics
  • A problem-solving mindset-you enjoy troubleshooting and getting to root causes
  • The ability to manage multiple priorities without sacrificing quality
  • Strong communication skills-you can translate technical details into practical understanding

Bonus points if you:
  • Have (or are pursuing) IFPS certification
  • Have worked in manufacturing, distribution, or OEM environments
  • Are familiar with ERP/CRM systems like NetSuite
  • Enjoy thinking about how technology (including AI) can improve efficiency and workflows