Mechanical Design Engineer
About The Position
The Mechanical Design Engineer in the Machinery & Tools Group (KOKI) 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 maintains build schedules for each project and develops supporting documentation, including drawings, bills of materials, and machine manuals. The engineer plans and executes mechanical designs, tests and refines them through simulations and experiments, oversees fabrication of equipment parts, and works with mechanical and electrical technicians during assembly. The position manages automation projects from purchasing and scheduling through debugging and customer delivery, and leads equipment installation, setup, and testing on production lines. It also supports equipment improvements, project planning and budgeting, documentation, continuous improvement, and safe work practices. The role is based in Durham, North Carolina, and requires onsite work when necessary. Travel is approximately 10%.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field is required.
- 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 well in a group and lead projects in a cross-functional environment.
- Proficiency with MS Excel, Word, and Outlook.
- Ability to operate a personal computer, telephone, and other office equipment.
- Ability to work onsite when necessary, work effectively in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple assignments, meet deadlines and budgets with satisfactory quality, and operate as an effective team member.
- Commitment and ability 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.
- Ability to travel approximately 10%.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in machine design, especially assembly and test machines.
- Experience setting up, installing, and integrating 6-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 specifications, and operational manuals.
- Manage automation projects, including purchasing, scheduling fabrication and assembly, debugging, and customer delivery.
- Lead final installation, setup, and testing of equipment within production lines.
- Liaise with engineers and outside contractors during machine installation.
- Maintain positive working relationships and support cross-functional project needs and objectives.
- Maintain accurate records for each machine assembly based on project plans.
- Modify existing equipment to improve 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 reductions.
- Understand and implement safe work practices in compliance with company policies.
- Perform other tasks and duties as assigned.
