Mechanical Designer

It’s your time, make it matter.

At Peterson, we partner with our customers to build the future. For over 85 years, our peoples’ work has shaped the communities where we live, where we raise our families, and where we thrive. Peterson’s legacy permeates every aspect of our communities. From roads and bridges, back-up power at hospitals, fire-fighting, concerts and moving goods; we are everywhere you look. At Peterson, you don’t just have a career, you have a purpose.

Our family-oriented environment is built on safety, winning, growth, and professional achievement. Hiring and developing exceptional people is critical to our continued success. We have high standards for a good reason: our people represent Peterson, our family, our brand, and our values.

You have high expectations too. You are exceptionally motivated, have outstanding skills, and want your work to matter.  Peterson offers competitive wages, generous benefits, and promotional opportunities at a family-owned and operated business. It’s time to use your skills and passion to do work that matters!

Job Description

Peterson Power Systems has a need for a Mechanical Designer at our Hillsboro, OR location.

JOB SUMMARY

The Mechanical Designer supports the engineering team in designing and developing mechanical components and systems for custom Caterpillar power generation packages, including generator enclosure envelopes, fuel systems, cooling systems, exhaust configurations, and integrated power modules. This role involves creating detailed 3D models, engineering drawings, and fabrication documentation using computer-aided design (CAD) software. The position contributes to turnkey power solutions, from concept to installation, ensuring designs meet customer specifications, industry standards, and Caterpillar requirements for reliability in demanding applications.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Create and revise 3D solid models, assemblies, and detailed 2D engineering drawings using CAD software such as Inventor, Revit, SolidWorks, and AutoCAD.

• Design mechanical systems, enclosures, mounting structures, piping, and components for power generation equipment, including diesel/natural gas generators and related accessories.

• Collaborate with project engineers, electrical designers, sales teams, packagers, and after treatment manufacturers on custom power system projects, modifications, and installations.

• Interpret customer requirements, perform basic calculations, and ensure compliance with engineering standards, safety regulations, and Peterson procedures and guidelines.

• Support factory witness testing and troubleshooting of mechanical systems.

• Assist in design reviews, documentation, and continuous improvement initiatives for power systems.

• Participate in preparing reports, specifications, and documentation for project bids and executions.

• Ensure adherence to appropriate modeling standards for engineering drawings and develop standard drawing packages that can be used for multiple customer designs.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Design, Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field and a minimum of three (3) years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in power generation, heavy equipment, industrial machinery, or manufacturing sectors or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience with 3D CAD software (Inventor and SolidWorks required; Creo preferred).

• Experience with 2D drafting tools (AutoCAD required; Revit, Visio, and BIM Collaborate Pro preferred).

• Experience working within a Product Data Management (PDM) system such as Enterprise PDM, or similar.

• Experience with power systems components (e.g., engines, enclosures, cooling, exhaust, fuel tanks) or heavy-duty engine packaging is preferred.

• Familiarity with industry standards (e.g., NFPA, EPA, and NEMA) and Caterpillar products preferred.

• Must display strong knowledge of mechanical principles, Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerance (GD&T), sheet metal fabrication, welding, wiring diagrams, and related manufacturing processes.

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical specifications required.

Peterson Power Systems, Inc. is committed to equal employment opportunity and affirmative action. Minorities, females, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. A drug screen and background check is required.