Applied Engineering
Employee-owned engineering, software, and print services firm
Mechanical Design Engineer
+ Paid overtime
About the job
- A Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering is required.
- At least 5 years of 3D design experience is required.
- Expert-level proficiency in CAD software such as Creo, SolidWorks, or Inventor is required, with preference for proficiency in all three.
- Strong knowledge of metalworking processes including forming, bending, welding, machining, casting, and extrusion is required.
- Experience with polymer manufacturing processes including injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming is required.
- Experience with Finite Element Analysis is required.
- A basic understanding of electrical engineering principles is required.
- Familiarity with machine control systems and programmable logic controllers is required.
- Working knowledge of at least one programming language is required.
- The candidate must be capable of working independently and as a team member.
- Strong work ethic, integrity, interpersonal skills, learning mindset, curiosity, problem-solving ability, analytical thinking, and effective verbal and written communication are required.
- Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
- Interpret customer requirements.
- Create and refine three-dimensional designs.
- Manage projects and initiatives across product development and manufacturing.
- Perform design validation through Finite Element Analysis.
- Collaborate across disciplines to integrate mechanical systems with electrical and control components.
- Support the performance, manufacturability, and innovation of product lines.
- Support a variety of clients and industries while collaborating with suppliers and other Applied Engineering partners.
About the company
Applied Engineering is an employee-owned engineering and technology company serving manufacturers across the Upper Midwest. It offers product design, analysis, prototyping, and reverse-engineering services alongside custom software development, IT and network consulting, and large-format printing, scanning, and archiving. Clients span industries such as off-highway transportation, construction and agricultural equipment, energy, and medical devices. What sets Applied Engineering apart is its 100% employee-ownership structure, which ties every team member's success to client outcomes, plus locations across North Dakota, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. The goal is to blend technical talent and technology into solutions that fit each customer's project, process, and culture.
Company Size
N/A
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Wayzata, Minnesota
Founded
1989
Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Applied Engineering added sales and leadership hires in August 2026, signaling growth intent.
- Events in 2026 target automation, lithography, and manufacturing buyers, widening deal flow.
- Employee ownership plus repeated workplace awards support retention in a competitive labor market.
What critics are saying
- CREtelligent's June 2026 acquisition can disrupt culture, pricing, and management priorities.
- Minnesota WARN filings show layoffs across the state; engineering demand softens quickly.
- If 3D printing and manufacturing expansion underperform, margins shrink before 2027.
What makes Applied Engineering unique
- Applied Engineering is 100% employee-owned, retaining talent through shared equity.
- The firm expanded into advanced 3D printing in 2026 for prototyping and production.
- Applied Engineering serves robotics, semiconductor, and industrial controls customers with DFM capabilities.
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Benefits
401(k) Retirement Plan
Paid Time Off
Paid Holidays
Tuition Reimbursement
Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
Disability Insurance
Flexible Work Hours
Remote Work Options
Wellness Program
Gym Membership
Phone/Internet Stipend
Home Office Stipend
Flexible Work Hours
Family Planning Benefits
Fertility Treatment Support
Professional Development Budget
Conference Attendance Budget