Machine Design Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Machine Design Engineer, Kent, Ohio

Job Type: Salary, Exempt

This company is a privately held manufacturing company in Kent, Ohio specializing in custom-engineered machine design and build with an emphasis on secondary operation automation equipment and pultrusion equipment. Key industries we design and build equipment for include window and door, composites (fiberglass, carbon fiber), fluid systems, and plastics.

Position Summary

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Custom Automation Equipment Design Engineer with 3-10 years of hands-on experience designing and developing industrial automation systems. The ideal candidate brings a strong mechanical engineering foundation, advanced SolidWorks proficiency, and a passion for solving complex manufacturing challenges through innovative equipment design. Additionally, this individual will be expected to aid in sales efforts, including customer meetings, concept design, and assisting the Sales team with quoting.

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Lead the design and engineering of custom capital equipment projects

• Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and engineering drawings using SolidWorks

• Perform FEA / simulation analyses to validate structural integrity and optimize designs prior to fabrication • Create and maintain accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs) and engineering documentation throughout the project lifecycle, including equipment manuals

• Collaborate with controls engineer on projects

• Lead design reviews with customers and coordinate with fabrication, machining, and assembly teams to ensure designs are manufacturable and on schedule

• Source and manage vendors; evaluate quotes, lead times, and technical compliance for purchased components

• Support machine build, debug, and commissioning activities on the shop floor and at customer sites as needed

• Identify continuous improvement opportunities and contribute to internal design standards and best practices

• Act in a manner that results in collaboration, teamwork, and respect toward all internal and external contacts

• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related field

• 3-10 years of experience designing custom automation or special-purpose machinery

• Expert-level proficiency in SolidWorks (parts, assemblies, drawings, and configurations)

• Demonstrated experience with FEA / simulation tools (SolidWorks Simulation or equivalent)

• Familiarity with PLC-based control systems and the ability to collaborate effectively with controls engineers

• Experience with servo motion control systems

• Proven ability to manage vendor relationships and maintain accurate BOMs and procurement documentation

• Strong GD&T knowledge and the ability to produce clear, complete engineering drawings

• Proficient in MS Office, particularly Excel

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work cross-functionally

• Strong attention to detail

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing fabrication equipment for the window and door market

• Experience designing equipment used to fabricate fiberglass, vinyl/PVC, aluminum, and wood

• Experience in CNC drilling, CNC routing, and saw systems

• Experience with robotics, material handling, or assembly automation

• Exposure to machine safety standards (ISO 13849, ANSI B11 series, or equivalent)

• Familiarity with Design for Manufacturability (DFM)

What we offer

• Compensation commensurate with experience

• Benefits – Medical, Dental, Vision, Life insurance, Simple IRA with company contributions, Short-term and long-term disability, Paid time off