Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs in San Antonio, TX

Company Overview
Steelhead, Inc. has been a pioneering force in designing and manufacturing equipment for the bottled water industry since 1971. With a global presence spanning over 90 countries, Steelhead provides innovative water treatment solutions and reliable machinery to leading producers in the beverage and agriculture sectors.

We are seeking a hands-on Engineering Manager to lead our engineering department while actively participating in the design and execution of custom machinery projects. This position is ideal for an experienced engineer who enjoys solving complex technical challenges, leading a small team, and seeing projects move from concept through installation.

Position Summary

This is not a traditional corporate management position. The Engineering Manager will lead a small engineering team of one to two direct reports while remaining actively involved in equipment design, project execution, customer interaction, and technical problem-solving.

The successful candidate will spend the majority of their time engineering and designing custom equipment while providing leadership, mentorship, and direction to the engineering department.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of custom bottling, water treatment, and automation equipment
• Manage engineering projects from concept through manufacturing, installation, and startup
• Supervise, mentor, and develop a small team of mechanical designers and engineers
• Review and approve engineering drawings, assemblies, and bills of material
• Collaborate with sales, manufacturing, purchasing, controls engineering, and field service teams
• Participate in customer meetings, project reviews, and technical discussions
• Support equipment troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives
• Establish and maintain engineering standards, processes, and documentation
• Assist with project scheduling, resource planning, and workload management
• Drive practical, cost-effective engineering solutions that support company growth

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• 10+ years of mechanical design experience in industrial equipment, automation, machinery, or related industries
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred
• Strong proficiency with SolidWorks or comparable 3D CAD software
• Experience creating manufacturing drawings and bills of material
• Strong understanding of machine design, fabrication, machining, welding, and assembly processes
• Experience with pneumatics, conveyors, motors, gearboxes, bearings, and industrial automation equipment
• Excellent communication and project management skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Experience

• Bottling equipment
• Food and beverage manufacturing systems
• Water treatment equipment
• Robotics and automation systems
• Custom machinery or OEM equipment manufacturing

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Health insurance
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Retirement plan
• Opportunity to play a key leadership role in a growing company
• Ability to directly influence products, processes, and company success

Travel

Occasional travel to customer sites for project reviews, installations, and support.

Steelhead is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Pay: $105,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Relocation assistance
• Retirement plan

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Location:

• San Antonio, TX 78221 (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• San Antonio, TX 78221: Relocate with an employer provided relocation package (Required)

Work Location: In person