Senior Mechanical Design Engineer – Custom Automation & Robotics Systems

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer – Custom Automation & Robotics Systems

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer – Custom Automation & Robotics Systems

Our client is a full-service systems integrator specializing in advanced custom automation solutions involving robotics, machine vision, precision motion control, and turnkey manufacturing systems.

Position Overview

Seeking a senior-level Mechanical Design Engineer with deep experience designing custom automation cells integrating mechanics, robotics, vision, motion control, and controls systems. This individual will lead machine design efforts for highly customized automation projects and serve as a key technical contributor from concept development through machine acceptance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design of custom automated machinery
  , robotic work cells, and special-purpose equipment from concept through final build
• Design automation systems incorporating robotics, vision-guided systems, conveyors, precision mechanisms, servo motion, and integrated controls platforms
• Develop machine architecture, layouts, precision tooling, EOAT, guarding, and structural systems
• Partner closely with controls, electrical, and software engineers to deliver fully integrated automation solutions
• Perform concept development, tolerance analysis, design calculations, and design-for-manufacturing reviews
• Create detailed drawings, BOMs, fabrication packages, and vendor specifications
• Lead customer and internal design reviews, support machine debug, FAT/SAT, installation, and commissioning
• Troubleshoot mechanical and system-level performance issues during build and startup
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to engineering standards and design innovation

Strong experience designing machinery such as:

• Robotic assembly and vision-guided automation cells
• Special-purpose assembly machines (SPM)
• Precision motion and servo-driven automation platforms
• Machine tending and robotic material handling systems
• High-speed packaging, inspection, or test automation
• Custom EOAT, tooling, fixturing, and precision mechanisms

Highly desirable backgrounds from:

• Custom machine builders
• Robotics or machine vision integrators
• Packaging automation OEMs
• Special-purpose machinery manufacturers

Required Qualifications

• BSME or equivalent engineering experience
• 7+ years (10+ preferred) in custom machine design or automation systems integration
• Expert-level Solid Works or similar 3D CAD proficiency
• Strong background in machining, fabrication methods, and design for assembly
• Experience taking machines from concept through startup and commissioning
• Ability to interface directly with customers, vendors, and multidisciplinary engineering teams
• Travel as needed for startup and customer support

Preferred Technical Skills

Strong preference for experience with:

• Machine vision integration and industrial camera applications
• Motion control, servo systems, and precision automation
• Pneumatics, actuators, and mechatronic systems
• PLC-controlled machinery and controls integration
• Machine safety design, guarding, and risk assessment (RIA/ANSI familiarity preferred)
• Working knowledge of robot programming and PLC logic is a major plus
• $80,000 – $140,000 + bonus
• Flexible work environment supporting work-life balance

Requirements

• U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) ONLY