Mechanical Engineer – Refrigeration & Manufacturing Systems

About Dole

Founded in 1937, Dole is a second-generation family-owned manufacturing company headquartered in Lewisburg, Tennessee.

For nearly 90 years, Dole has designed and manufactured transport refrigeration systems, eutectic holdover plates, process freezing equipment, and custom refrigeration solutions for customers around the world.

Today, we have expanded beyond refrigeration to become a full-service manufacturing company with capabilities that include:

• Fiber Laser Cutting
• CNC Press Brake Forming
• MIG & TIG Welding
• Powder Coating
• Product Design & Engineering
• Assembly & Manufacturing

As an ISO 9001 registered company, we combine engineering expertise with advanced manufacturing to develop innovative solutions for customers in refrigeration, transportation, industrial equipment, off-road systems, and specialty OEM applications.

Position Summary

The Mechanical Engineer – Refrigeration & Manufacturing Systems is responsible for designing, developing, and supporting refrigeration products while also contributing to manufacturing, product development, and continuous improvement initiatives.

This role combines traditional mechanical engineering, refrigeration system design, product development, and hands-on manufacturing support. The ideal candidate enjoys solving technical challenges, working directly with customers, and seeing projects move from concept to production.

Key Responsibilities

Refrigeration Engineering

• Design transport refrigeration and process freezing systems.
• Perform refrigeration load calculations and system sizing.
• Select compressors, condensers, evaporators, controls, valves, and associated components.
• Develop refrigeration piping layouts and system schematics.
• Support testing, validation, and troubleshooting of refrigeration equipment.
• Evaluate and improve performance of existing refrigeration products.
• Research and develop new refrigeration technologies and products.
• Assist customers with technical application requirements and product selection.

Product Design & Development

• Create 3D CAD models and manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks.
• Develop bills of material, routings, and engineering documentation.
• Design fabricated sheet metal, welded, and assembled products.
• Perform engineering calculations related to strength, airflow, thermal performance, and manufacturability.
• Support new product development from concept through production launch.

Manufacturing Support

• Provide engineering support to fabrication, welding, assembly, and powder coating operations.
• Assist production personnel with drawing interpretation and technical questions.
• Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing efficiency, quality, and cost.
• Develop work instructions, engineering standards, and process documentation.
• Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action activities.

Project Management & Customer Support

• Manage multiple engineering projects simultaneously.
• Work directly with customers to understand application requirements and develop solutions.
• Collaborate with suppliers on materials, equipment, and purchased components.
• Support quoting, estimating, and cost-reduction initiatives.
• Provide technical leadership on assigned projects.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline.
• 3 years of engineering experience preferred.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred).
• Strong understanding of mechanical design principles.
• Ability to create and interpret technical drawings and engineering documentation.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred

• Experience designing refrigeration, HVAC, thermal, or fluid systems.
• Experience with sheet metal fabrication and welded assemblies.
• Knowledge of refrigeration controls and electrical systems.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality systems.
• Knowledge of ERP systems and bill of material management.

Why Join Dole?

At Dole, you won't be limited to a single engineering discipline.

You'll have the opportunity to:

• Design refrigeration systems.
• Develop new products.
• Work directly with manufacturing operations.
• Interact with customers and suppliers.
• Influence company strategy and product development.
• See your ideas become finished products.

If you're looking for an engineering role where you can make a meaningful impact and expand your skills beyond a traditional corporate engineering position, we'd love to talk with you.

Benefits

• Competitive Salary
• Performance Bonus Opportunity
• 401(k)
• Profit Sharing
• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Professional Development Opportunities

Schedule

• Full-Time
• Monday-Friday
• In Person
• Occasional Travel Required

Pay: From $68,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person