Senior Mechanical Design Engineer – Custom Machine Design

Large Automation Systems | On-Site | Greater Chicago Area

We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer with 10+ years of experience designing large custom machines and automation systems.

This role focuses on full machine architecture and mechanical system design — not PLC programming or controls development. You will lead mechanical design efforts from concept through build, installation, and commissioning.

If you have experience designing multi-station automation systems, welded structural frames, motion systems, and complex mechanical assemblies, this opportunity offers hands-on technical ownership and direct impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design of large custom automation equipment
• Develop machine layouts, structural frames, motion systems, and tooling
• Create 3D models and detailed drawings using SolidWorks
• Apply GD&T and manage tolerance stack-ups for complex assemblies
• Develop and release Bills of Materials (BOMs)
• Create build documentation for fabrication and assembly teams
• Collaborate with controls, project management, and operations
• Support machine commissioning and troubleshoot mechanical issues
• Interface with customers to clarify system requirements

Qualifications

• 10+ years of mechanical engineering experience in:
• Custom automation
• Special machine design
• Industrial equipment design
• Strong experience designing large assemblies and machine architecture
• Proficiency in SolidWorks (PDM preferred)

Experience with:

• Welded frames and structural assemblies
• Servo-driven motion systems
• Pneumatics and electromechanical components
• GD&T and tolerance analysis
• Experience supporting fabrication and machine build
• Knowledge of OSHA and NFPA standards

What This Role Is Not

• Not a PLC or controls engineering role
• Not a manufacturing/process engineering position
• Not a maintenance or facilities engineering job

This is a hands-on machine design position focused on custom industrial automation systems.

If your interested in learning more we would love to chat with you!