Senior Mechanical Engineer - Hydraulics

Job Title:Mechanical Engineer - Hydraulics

Job Description

This role focuses on the design and development of advanced hydraulic systems and components for large mobile mining equipment. The Mechanical Engineer - Hydraulics applies deep expertise in fluid power fundamentals, controls technologies, and mechanical design to support new product development and machine applications. The position offers the opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art facility, contribute to industry-leading haulage vehicles, and travel internationally to mining sites around the world.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of hydraulic systems for large mobile mining vehicles, ensuring robust performance, reliability, and safety.
• Apply fluid power fundamentals and controls technologies to create efficient and optimized hydraulic solutions for machine applications.
• Select hydraulic components that meet performance, durability, and cost requirements for heavy-duty mining equipment.
• Develop and refine mechanical designs and machine layouts that integrate hydraulic systems seamlessly into overall vehicle architecture.
• Use 3D modeling tools such as Creo and other CAD software to create detailed models, assemblies, and engineering drawings.
• Support new product development initiatives by contributing hydraulic and mechanical design expertise throughout the product lifecycle.
• Utilize simulation software such as Matlab/Simulink, AMESim, and/or Automation Studio to model, analyze, and validate hydraulic and control system performance.
• Participate in implementing Lean Engineering principles to improve design processes, reduce waste, and enhance engineering efficiency.
• Contribute to effective Change Management implementation by documenting, reviewing, and executing design changes in a controlled and traceable manner.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, and field service, to ensure designs are practical, manufacturable, and maintainable.
• Engage in international assignments and travel to mining sites worldwide to support equipment commissioning, troubleshooting, and customer interactions.
• Stay current with industry standards and best practices through professional registration, committee participation, and involvement in technical societies.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to less experienced engineers in hydraulic systems, mechanical design, and simulation tools.

Essential Skills

• Sound knowledge of fluid power fundamentals and hydraulic controls technologies.
• Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering or an equivalent relevant discipline (Master's degree preferred).
• Approximately 12 or more years of experience in engineering design and machine applications within the mining industry, with strong focus on hydraulic systems and components in mobile equipment.
• Proficiency with simulation software such as Matlab/Simulink, AMESim, and/or Automation Studio.
• Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) tools, including 3D modeling with Creo.
• Demonstrated experience in hydraulic systems design, including component selection and system integration.
• Strong mechanical design skills related to machine design and new product development.
• Experience in international assignments and willingness to travel globally as required.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Certified Fluid Power Engineer or Specialist credential is highly desired.
• Participation in implementing Lean Engineering principles is desired.
• Participation in effective Change Management implementation is highly desired.
• Professional registration and/or membership in engineering committees and technical societies is beneficial.
• Experience with new product development processes in heavy equipment or mining vehicle segments.
• Ability to work with cross-functional and international teams and adapt to diverse work environments.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills for complex hydraulic and mechanical engineering challenges.

Work Environment

The role is based in a brand-new, state-of-the-art engineering and manufacturing facility focused on large haulage mining vehicles. The environment emphasizes innovation, continuous improvement, and professional growth, with a clear path to direct hire and promotions. The position may offer relocation assistance and includes the possibility of a remote workday every other Friday, depending on business needs. Engineers use advanced CAD and simulation tools such as Creo, Matlab/Simulink, AMESim, and Automation Studio in a modern, well-equipped workspace. The role involves international travel to mining sites in diverse locations, including regions such as the Arctic, Chile, and India, providing exposure to global operations and field conditions.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Peoria, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $48.00 - $67.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Peoria,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 25, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.