Sr. Design Engineer

Description

RIX Industries is a technology-focused company specializing in the design, development and manufacturing of gas generation systems, precision compressor solutions, and cryogenic cooling technologies for critical applications in Marine, Aerospace, Land, Energy, Industrial, Medical, and Critical Infrastructure markets. Founded in 1878, the company is headquartered in Benicia, CA, and operates additional facilities in Sparks, NV.

Position Summary

The Senior Design Engineer will be responsible for the design, development, and optimization of mechanical components and systems including, but not limited to, gas compression and separation systems, their components, and accessories. The role demands deep understanding of various compressor technologies such as conventional reciprocating, linear motor driven reciprocating, scroll, rotary, vane, centrifugal, and high-speed rotating machinery that deliver a range of pressures and flows.  

Responsibilities

• Manage assigned projects from scheduling and planning through execution and delivery, ensuring timely completion of all project deliverables including designs, drawings, analysis, documentation, and testing.
• Lead the design, development, and analysis of compressor components and assemblies, utilizing internal and external resources to ensure technical accuracy, performance, and reliability.
• Conduct and review engineering calculations, simulations, and validation testing to ensure designs meet product and performance requirements.
• Support prototype development, including test planning, execution, data analysis, and closure. Assist with the fabrication and use of test stands for performance evaluation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve technical issues and support product development efforts at the component, subsystem, and system levels.
• Identify and mitigate project risks to maintain schedule and budget compliance.
• Influence and advise internal and external stakeholders, fostering collaborative relationships to support successful project outcomes.
• Create development plans and strategic technical roadmaps that align with customer needs and return on investment expectations.
• Provide guidance and mentorship in engineering design excellence; contribute to the development of engineering design standards, work instructions, and guidelines.
• Support quality and compliance initiatives, ensuring documentation (e.g., design specifications, test plans, reports) meets company and regulatory standards.
• Work closely with supply chain, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure that designs align with project requirements and industry standards.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts by capturing lessons learned, supporting design quality objectives, and providing technical support to other departments as needed.
• Prioritize scheduled and ad hoc work including engineering change orders, test support, and failure analysis based on program and business needs.
• Represent the company through technical presentations, written reports, and verbal communication with diverse internal and external audiences.
• All other duties as assigned by the Engineering Department Management team.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor degree in Engineering from an accredited engineering school.
• 8 years product development experience in the compressor industry.
• In-depth working and hands-on experience in devloping oil free compressors such as reciprocating, scroll and centrifugal.
• Strong experience in advanced compression technologies and component development including high pressure generation, gas systems, operation and maintenance.
• Experience with materials selection and properties.
• Knowledge of machine design and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to communicate with others to exchange information both orally and in writing.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, codes and other specifications.
• Proficient in 3D computer aided design software (CAD) and experience interpreting and applying the ASME Y14 drawing standards. 
• Ability to travel as required by the company to perform job duties.
• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen or qualified U.S. Person in accordance with ALU 22CFR 120.15.  

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Engineering field.
• 10 years of advanced compressor product development experience. 
• Experience in space, aerospace or industrial environment.
• Knowledge of linear motors reciprocating, rotary, vane, gear compressors and high-speed machinery.

Physical Requirements

Must have the following physical abilities: 

• Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, bend, stretch, reach, and lift.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods at a desk or table as well as machine tools or printers.

Work Environment

Office