Senior Mechanical Designer

Wunderlich-Malec Engineering (WM) is a 100% employee-owned ESOP and one of the largest and most well-established engineering companies in the United States. When you join WM you become part of a company that is:

• 100% employee-owned with 40+ years of industry history
• ENR (Engineering News Record) Top 500 firm
• Rated as a top System Integrator Giant

We have a Senior Mechanical Drafter/ Designer position available in our Oakdale, MN office. This person will be focusing on the layout, modeling, and implementation of mechanical systems for industrial projects.

The Senior Mechanical Designer/Modeler plays a pivotal role in our Mechanical Engineering team, focusing on the design, modeling, and implementation of mechanical systems for complex industrial projects. This position involves creating detailed 2D drawings, 3D models, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver robust solutions that meet client specifications and industry standards. You will lead design efforts and provide technical expertise from concept through fabrication and installation.

The Senior Mechanical Designer/Modeler works closely with cross‑functional teams—including electrical designers/engineers, project managers, clients, and vendors—to innovate mechanical designs that enhance system performance, reliability, and manufacturability. By incorporating feedback from design reviews and field data, you will refine solutions to address challenges in areas such as process piping, equipment skids, HVAC, and structural supports.

• Lead the design, 2D drawings, 3D modeling, and development of mechanical systems for complex projects spanning multiple domains, such as industrial automation, process plants, and energy systems. Participate in project planning, scheduling, and risk assessments.
• Serve as a recognized subject matter expert in mechanical modeling and clash detection.
• Interpret customer requirements, specifications, and site data; act as the primary technical contact for clients on mechanical design aspects.
• Recommend innovative solutions and develop deployment strategies.
• Create and maintain 3D models, general arrangement drawings, P&IDs, piping isometrics, and construction documents using CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, AutoCAD Plant 3D, Revit, Inventor, Trimble‑Sysque).
• Coordinate designs with other disciplines (e.g., architectural, electrical, structural, controls) and stakeholders to ensure code‑compliant systems.
• Conduct field visits for data collection, measurements, and construction observations; size and select mechanical components (e.g., pumps, valves, HVAC units).
• Manage vendor relationships, prepare specifications, and support procurement and fabrication processes.
• Use feedback from manufacturing, testing, and client reviews to iterate and improve designs; finalize drawings and models for production handover.
• Estimate project hours, manage small‑scale design tasks independently, and contribute to cost estimating and budgeting.
• Demonstrate proficiency in specialized areas such as piping design, HVAC systems, process mechanical skids, or plumbing/utilities.
• Other duties as assigned, including participation in continuous improvement initiatives.

• Advanced proficiency in 2D AutoCAD, 3D modeling and CAD software, including AutoCAD Plant 3D, Revit, and Inventor; experience with Trimble‑Sysque and simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS) are a plus.
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, building codes (e.g., ASME, ASHRAE), and industry standards for industrial applications.
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to handle budgets, timelines, and team coordination.
• Superior communication and collaboration abilities; adept at presenting designs to clients and cross‑functional teams.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and familiarity with estimation tools.
• Core behaviors:
  Accountability (takes ownership and acts with urgency), Business Focus (adapts to changes and meets commitments), Project Execution (balances speed and quality), Respect for Others (communicates effectively), and Team Player (shares…