Associate Machine Design Engineer

Valmont Industries, Inc. • Valley, NE

10d • Onsite

About The Position

The Associate Machine Design Engineer supports the design and development of proprietary manufacturing equipment used across global operations. This entry-level role focuses on assisting with mechanical design, documentation, testing, and implementation activities under the guidance of senior engineers. The Associate Machine Design Engineer works closely with experienced engineers, designers, and fabrication teams to help deliver safe, reliable, and efficient manufacturing equipment. This position emphasizes hands-on learning, technical growth, and exposure to the full equipment development lifecycle, while building foundational skills in machine design, manufacturing systems, and engineering documentation.

Requirements

• Preferred Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, or a technical degree with equivalent experience.
• Up to 3 years of experience in manufacturing engineering/machine design required.
• Construction / Machinery Project Management experience leading teams & managing vendors as a project manager and/or project team leader
• Ability to successfully lead and drive change on multiple projects
• Proficiency using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and MS Project
• Basic proficiency with Autodesk Suite (AutoCAD, Inventor, Vault) or 3D modelling software packages
• Basic knowledge of robotics (Fanuc/Yaskawa/Kuka/Nachi)
• Basic knowledge of steel metallurgy, welding processes
• Proactive individual capable of independently managing and completing projects with minimal supervision
• Familiarity with machine controls, PLC Hardware and Software
• The ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Aptitude of making decisions involving varied levels of risk and ambiguity
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and attention to detail in a collaborative work environment

Nice To Haves

• EIT or Professional Engineers License
• Finite element analysis experience
• Certified Machine Safety Expert (CMSE) or similar machine safety certification
• Knowledge of Lean tools and principles
• GD&T Experience

Responsibilities

• Support the conceptual design and development of proprietary manufacturing equipment under the direction of senior engineers
• Create and modify 3D CAD models and detailed drawings to support equipment design, fabrication, and assembly
• Assist with design reviews, functional verification, and troubleshooting, helping identify potential issues early in development
• Support risk assessments by identifying potential mechanical, safety, or usability concerns and assisting with mitigation actions
• Help develop and maintain engineering documentation, including drawings, bills of material, operating instructions, and training materials
• Provide day-to-day engineering support to manufacturing and fabrication teams during build, installation, and commissioning
• Assist with equipment testing and performance evaluations, documenting results and recommending improvements
• Support data collection related to cost, material usage, and labor to aid continuous improvement and cost-reduction activities
• Ensure project documentation is properly captured and stored in designated digital systems
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing, maintenance, procurement, and quality
• Demonstrate the ability to work both independently on assigned tasks and collaboratively within project teams
• Communicate clearly and professionally with peers, supervisors, and supporting teams
• Meet or exceed established project performance goals
• Ability to work independently or in groups

Benefits

• Healthcare (medical, prescription drugs, dental and vision)
• 401k retirement plan with company match
• Paid time off
• Employer paid life insurance
• Employer paid short-term and long-term disability including maternity leave
• Work Life Support
• Tuition Reimbursement up to $5,250 per year
• Voluntary programs like tobacco cessation, Type 2 diabetes reversal, one-on-one health coaching, mortgage services and more

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level