Associate Mechanical Engineer

About the role

Flex is the diversified manufacturing partner of choice that helps market-leading brands design, build and deliver innovative products that improve the world.

A career at Flex offers the opportunity to make a difference and invest in your growth in a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative environment. If you are excited about a role but don't meet every bullet point, we encourage you to apply and join us to create the extraordinary.

Job Summary

Purpose

The Associate Mechanical Engineer is a hands-on, technically driven problem solver responsible for supporting the performance, reliability, and continuous improvement of highly automated manufacturing equipment and processes.

Working within a regulated medical device manufacturing environment, this position applies fundamental mechanical engineering principles to diagnose equipment failures, identify root causes, develop practical engineering solutions, and improve manufacturing performance.

As part of Flex's Engineering in Training (EIT) program, the Associate Mechanical Engineer will develop technical competencies through structured training, mentorship, and direct involvement in real-world engineering challenges. The position is designed to build the foundational skills necessary to progress into increasingly independent engineering responsibilities.

Location: Buffalo Grove, IL

Hours: 0800am-0430pm M-F

About the role

• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical equipment failures, applying engineering principles to identify root causes and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Perform hands-on investigations of automated manufacturing equipment, mechanical assemblies, motion systems, and production processes.
• Analyze equipment performance, failure trends, downtime, and scrap to identify opportunities for improved reliability, quality, and efficiency.
• Develop, evaluate, and implement mechanical design improvements to address equipment deficiencies and recurring failures.
• Apply structured problem-solving methodologies, including root cause analysis, 5 Why, and failure mode analysis, to resolve technical issues.
• Support the design, fabrication, assembly, installation, testing, and validation of mechanical components and equipment modifications.
• Utilize CAD software, engineering drawings, technical specifications, and measurement tools to develop and evaluate mechanical solutions.
• Collaborate with Maintenance, Reliability, Automation & Controls, Manufacturing Engineering, and Operations to resolve complex equipment and process challenges.
• Support preventive and predictive maintenance improvements through failure analysis and engineering recommendations.
• Participate in equipment commissioning, qualification, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Prepare technical documentation, engineering calculations, test results, and recommendations supporting engineering decisions.
• Participate in the Engineering in Training (EIT) program, completing assigned technical development activities and demonstrating progression against established engineering competencies.
• Apply engineering judgment, critical thinking, and a continuous improvement mindset while maintaining compliance with applicable safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, or a related field from an accredited university.
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering fundamentals, including mechanics, materials, machine design, and mechanical systems.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot technical problems using logical, analytical approaches.
• Ability and willingness to work directly with manufacturing equipment, tools, and mechanical assemblies.
• Basic proficiency interpreting engineering drawings, mechanical schematics, and technical documentation.
• Familiarity with CAD software and fundamental engineering calculations.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to participate in and successfully complete the Engineering in Training (EIT) program.

Preferred Qualifications

• Internship, cooperative education, or project experience involving manufacturing equipment, mechanical design, automation, or maintenance engineering.
• Experience with hands-on mechanical projects, equipment repair, fabrication, machining, or prototype development.
• Familiarity with automated manufacturing equipment, including pneumatic systems, actuators, motors, gearboxes, bearings, and mechanical drive systems.
• Basic understanding of electrical controls, sensors, PLC-controlled equipment, and electromechanical systems.
• Experience with root cause analysis, troubleshooting methodologies, and continuous improvement tools.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes in regulated industries.
• Demonstrated curiosity, initiative, and willingness to independently investigate challenging technical problems.
• Ability to collaborate across technical disciplines and effectively communicate engineering findings.

What you'll receive for the great work you provide

• Full range of medical, dental, and vision plans
• Life Insurance
• Short-term and Long-term Disability
• Matching 401(k) Contributions
• Vacation and Paid Sick Time
• Tuition Reimbursement

Application Deadline

• Applications for this job position will be accepted for at least five days following the job posting start date below and continuing until the end date below or until the position is filled. This posting may close sooner due to application volume.
• Job Posting Start Date 10-14-2026 Job Posting End Date 11-30-2026

Pay and benefits

The base pay range for this position is provided below. The final base rate offered will be determined using job-related, non-discriminatory criteria, including but not limited to experience, qualifications, geographic location, education, external market data, and internal equity.

• $34.40 USD - $47.30 USD Hourly
• Job Category
• Production Engineering
• Is Sponsorship Available?
• No

Required Skills: Allen Bradley PLC, Electrical Schematics, Electrical System Troubleshooting, Industrial Communication Protocols, Problem Solving Ability, Servo Drive, Technical Troubleshooting