Mechanical Design Engineer
About The Position
The Mechanical Design Engineer in AISIN World Corp. of America’s Operations, KOKI Engineering department is responsible for designing new equipment from the ground up, overhauling existing equipment for reuse on new projects, and integrating automation into existing equipment to reduce labor costs. The role also maintains project build schedules and develops documentation—including drawings, bills of materials, and machine manuals—to support equipment modifications. The engineer manages automation projects from purchasing and scheduling fabrication and assembly through debugging and customer delivery. The position collaborates with engineers, manufacturing personnel, technicians, end users, and outside contractors, and leads equipment installation, setup, and testing on the production line. It also supports equipment improvements, investment planning and budgeting, documentation, continuous improvement, and safe work practices. The position is based in Durham, North Carolina, with approximately 10% travel. Job duties are performed onsite when necessary, while some duties, such as customer visits, may be performed offsite. The role requires working effectively in a fast-paced environment and completing multiple assignments to deadline and budget. Weekend and holiday availability may be required as business needs dictate.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
- Proven knowledge of design and engineering principles and best practices.
- Strong working knowledge of pneumatics.
- Proficiency with engineering design programs such as AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor, or Solidworks.
- Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills.
- Self-motivation and strong attention to detail.
- Time management skills and ability to work under limited time constraints.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work in a group environment and lead projects in a cross-functional environment.
- Proficiency in MS Excel, Word, and Outlook.
- Ability to operate a personal computer, telephone, and other office equipment, with reasonable accommodation.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple assignments to deadlines and budget with satisfactory quality.
- Ability to operate as an effective team member.
- Commitment to a high standard of safety and ability and willingness to comply with safety laws and company safety policies.
- Acceptable attendance record.
- Willingness and availability to work weekends and holidays as necessary to meet business needs.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in machine design, especially assembly and test machines.
- Experience setting up, installing, and integrating six-axis robots; Fanuc is preferred.
Responsibilities
- Participate in design reviews with engineers, manufacturing personnel, and other end users to determine application requirements.
- Plan and execute mechanical designs using CAD and 3D CAD programs.
- Perform computer simulations and experiments to virtually test and refine designs.
- Oversee the development and manufacturing of physical equipment parts.
- Work with mechanical and electrical technicians during machine assembly.
- Prepare technical reports, design specification documents, and operational manuals.
- Manage automation projects, including purchasing, scheduling fabrication and assembly, debugging, and customer delivery.
- Lead final equipment installation, setup, and testing within the production line.
- Act as a liaison between engineers and outside contractors during machine installation.
- Maintain positive working relationships across the company and support cross-functional project needs and objectives.
- Maintain accurate records for each machine assembly based on project plans.
- Modify existing equipment to improve its functionality.
- Assist with planning and budget development for investments in existing equipment and projects involving resource modifications.
- Create and maintain accurate, confidential documentation of process and equipment changes to support continuous improvement.
- Implement Kaizens to improve manufacturing metrics, including availability and labor reduction.
- Understand and implement safe work practices in compliance with company policies.
- Perform other tasks and duties as assigned.
