Design Engineer

Our client is the U.S. subsidiary of an established international manufacturer of high-quality automation solutions and end-of-arm tooling used in industrial automation and injection molding applications. Backed by a global organization and European headquarters, the U.S. operation combines the resources of an international company with the agility and visibility of a small, close-knit local team. The U.S. organization is currently strengthening and rebuilding its engineering capabilities in preparation for continued growth and upcoming project activity. This creates an excellent opportunity for an engineer who wants broad hands‑on exposure, direct access to leadership, and the chance to grow with the organization. The Opportunity We are looking for a hands‑on Design Engineer to join the team in the Raleigh–Durham area. This is a junior‑to‑mid‑level opportunity for someone with a strong mechanical design foundation who enjoys seeing a concept move all the way from CAD to a finished, working solution. The position is intentionally broader than a traditional desk‑based design role: you will design automation and EOAT solutions, create the associated documentation and BOMs, and - during the current build‑out of the engineering function - also help assemble and construct the tools you design. For someone who demonstrates the right technical ability, ownership, and leadership qualities, there is a potential path into engineering management within the short to mid‑term. Key Responsibilities Design end‑of‑arm tooling and automation solutions for injection molding and broader industrial automation applications. Develop detailed 3D models, engineering drawings, and other technical documentation. Create Bills of Materials (BOMs), identify required components, and support accurate project costing and quoting. Work closely with Project Management on design requirements, quoting activities, project milestones, and customer needs. Provide hands‑on support for the construction and assembly of EOAT systems, particularly as the engineering/build function expands. Participate in design reviews and ensure solutions are practical, manufacturable, and ready for release. Support prototype builds, tool tryouts, troubleshooting, adjustments, and engineering changes. Coordinate with Sales, customers, suppliers, and international colleagues as needed throughout the project lifecycle. Support inventory replenishment by reviewing stock reports, verifying component needs, and coordinating orders with European headquarters. Contribute to engineering process improvements and help build scalable, standardized ways of working. Travel occasionally to customer sites for tool trials, validation, and minor adjustments. Your Profile A mechanical engineering background is essential. Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field preferred; an Associate degree will be considered with strong relevant experience. Junior to mid‑level mechanical design experience; direct EOAT experience is highly desirable but not required. Experience in one or more of the following is a strong fit: end‑of‑arm tooling, custom automation, system integration, machine/system design, robotics, injection molding automation, or industrial equipment design. Experience with 3D CAD software; Autodesk Inventor is preferred, but comparable 3D CAD platforms are welcome. Working knowledge of engineering drawings, BOMs, mechanical components, and manufacturing/assembly principles. Exposure to pneumatic components, sensors, grippers, vacuum technology, or related automation components is beneficial. A practical, hands‑on mindset - you enjoy not only designing a solution, but also understanding how it is assembled, tested, and used. Strong communication and collaboration skills in a small‑team environment. Based in or able to commute to the Raleigh–Durham area for a hybrid schedule of approximately 3 days in the office and 2 days remote. Ability to travel occasionally, including initial technical training at the company’s headquarters in Europe. Why Join? Clear growth opportunity: potential progression into an Engineering Manager role within the short to mid‑term for the right person. Hands‑on ownership from concept and design through assembly, tryout, and final implementation. International exposure, including intensive training in Germany for approximately 1–3 weeks depending on experience level. High visibility in a small U.S. team with direct reporting to the Vice President. Opportunity to help shape and strengthen the engineering function rather than stepping into a narrowly defined role. Hybrid work arrangement with approximately three days on‑site and two days remote. Location & Travel Raleigh–Durham, North Carolina area. This is a hybrid position and is not fully remote. Occasional travel is expected, including customer‑site visits a few times per year and initial training at the company’s European headquarters. The company is not currently offering standard relocation assistance or employment sponsorship. #J-18808-Ljbffr