Mechanical Design Engineer

Mechanical Design Engineer

Sono-Tek is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to support advanced and custom systems within our Forward Deployed Engineering (FDE) team. This role focuses on SolidWorks design, technical documentation, proposal development, and close collaboration with customers and internal teams to deliver innovative, manufacturable solutions.

Location: Milton, NY (Onsite) Position Type: Full-Time Compensation: $60,000–$80,000 per year, commensurate with experience

Responsibilities

Under general direction from Senior Project Engineers and Application Engineering Manager, this position supports Sono-Tek's advanced/custom products. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, SolidWorks modeling and drawing creation, machine part handling and liquid delivery proposals, development of technical specifications, vendor sourcing, organization of project-related information, and coordination and communication with customers. Travel to customer and/or vendor locations worldwide may be required. This position resides within the Forward Deployed Engineering (FDE) department.

Design and Technical Documentation

• Create models, drawings and P&ID diagrams of appropriate hardware to meet customer requirements. This requires proficiency in SolidWorks and the standard Microsoft Office suite.
• Support creation of project proposals, including but not limited to part handling, liquid delivery systems, and complete system concept models.
• Provide support documentation packages including manual addendums, service and installation guides, and spare part kits.

Customer & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Applications Engineering, and the Machine Shop to ensure DFM (design for manufacturability) and DFA (design for assembly) are central to each design.
• Communicate with customers to support the design of custom tooling, part handling, and fluid delivery systems.
• Interface with customers and appropriate Sono-Tek staff regarding all aspects of project plans, including proposals, design reviews, and ongoing coordination.
• Set up and manage file-sharing databases between Sono-Tek and customers, as well as with subcontractors and vendors when necessary.
• Work closely with the Applications Engineering team to design and develop fixturing prototypes supporting customer feasibility testing.

Vendor Coordination

• Coordinate efforts to identify, evaluate, and source vendors for new parts or equipment required to meet customer requirements.

Continuous Improvement

• Provide feedback to Sales, Production, and Engineering teams regarding customer satisfaction and design improvement opportunities.
• Understand organizational quality objectives and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

Knowledge and Experience

• BS in an engineering discipline or equivalent experience is required.
• 3-5 years of direct engineering experience is required.

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to interpret mechanical, electrical, and automation concepts and discuss them with internal and external personnel.
• Rapid prototype and test designed parts to validate functionality and manufacturability.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for responding to customer and project issues.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain positive customer relationships.
• Superior verbal and written communication skills required for all aspects of the role.
• Foreign language skills are an asset when working with non-English-speaking customers; cultural awareness and sensitivity are required.

Bonus

• Machine shop experience is a plus.
• Ability to travel, including internationally, to customer and vendor sites is a plus.