Automation Mechanical Designer

Reports To: Engineering Manager – Automation Division

The Automation Mechanical Designer is responsible for the mechanical design and development of custom automation equipment, robotic work cells, special purpose machinery, and turnkey manufacturing systems. Working closely with Project Managers, Controls Engineers, Manufacturing, Purchasing, and Assembly personnel, the Automation Mechanical Designer transforms customer requirements into innovative, practical, and cost-effective mechanical solutions.

The successful candidate will possess strong mechanical design skills, sound engineering judgment, and the ability to manage projects while ensuring designs meet customer specifications, industry standards, project schedules, and budget requirements.

Every project is unique, providing the opportunity to work on innovative automation solutions for a diverse range of manufacturing applications and customers.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Design custom automation equipment, robotic work cells, special purpose machinery, secondary equipment, and turnkey manufacturing systems utilizing SOLIDWORKS.
• Translate customer requirements, engineering specifications, concept sketches, and applicable standards into complete manufacturing-ready mechanical designs.
• Develop machine layouts, assemblies, mechanisms, manufacturing drawings, Bills of Materials, and supporting engineering documentation.
• Apply sound engineering principles to optimize machine performance, manufacturability, reliability, ergonomics, serviceability, and overall cost.
• Evaluate engineering concepts and develop practical, innovative, and cost-effective mechanical solutions through engineering calculations, simulations, and sound design practices.
• Select appropriate purchased components and collaborate with suppliers to ensure technically sound and economical solutions.
• Work closely with Project Management, Controls Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, and Assembly throughout all phases of a project.
• Participate in internal and customer design reviews, incorporating feedback into final approved designs while ensuring compliance with customer requirements, project schedules, and company standards.
• Support machine assembly, debug, commissioning, and final "as-built" documentation by resolving mechanical design issues in a timely manner.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to Junior Automation Designers while promoting engineering best practices and continuous improvement.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications and Competencies

• Diploma or Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant automation design experience.
• Minimum five years of experience designing custom automation equipment or special purpose machinery within an industrial manufacturing environment.
• Advanced proficiency with SOLIDWORKS, including large assemblies, manufacturing drawings, and Bills of Materials.
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, manufacturing processes, GD&T, machine design, and Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA).
• Experience integrating robotics, pneumatic systems, servo systems, vision systems, and other purchased automation components.
• Familiarity with engineering calculations, tolerance analysis, CAE/FEA, and machine safety principles.
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, organizational, and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced team environment.
• High attention to detail, professional integrity, and the ability to manage confidential customer information.