Mechanical Design Engineer (3D Design Focus)

Job Details:

Mechanical Design Engineer (3D Design Focus)

Location: Birmingham, AL (On-site)
Compensation: DOE + Full Benefits
Travel: ~10%

Overview

A growing industrial automation and custom equipment company is seeking a Mechanical Engineer with proven 3D design experience to join its engineering team. This is not an entry-level role—the ideal candidate will be capable of jumping in on day one and owning mechanical design responsibilities across active projects.

This position is highly design-focused and suited for someone who has already worked in a manufacturing, automation, or machinery environment and is comfortable creating production-ready models, drawings, and assemblies without extensive ramp-up time.

What You’ll Be Doing

3D Mechanical Design (Core of the Role)

• Design complex mechanical systems, assemblies, and components using SolidWorks (or similar CAD)

• Develop detailed 3D models, fabrication drawings, and fully structured BOMs

• Create production-ready designs that account for manufacturability, tolerances, and real-world application

• Own designs from concept through release—this is a hands-on design role, not a support position

Project Execution & Collaboration

• Work closely with electrical, controls, and applications teams to deliver fully integrated systems

• Support builds, troubleshooting, and system validation during shop and field phases

• Assist with installation support and real-time problem solving as needed

Testing & Quality

• Participate in design reviews, identifying issues before release to production

• Support FAT/SAT activities and ensure systems meet performance expectations

• Continuously refine and improve existing designs for efficiency and reliability

Documentation & Communication

• Maintain clean, organized CAD files and revision control

• Generate clear technical documentation for internal teams and external stakeholders

• Communicate effectively with vendors, machinists, and internal build teams

What We’re Looking For

Experience (Non-Negotiable)

• 3+ years of hands-on mechanical design experience in automation, manufacturing, or industrial equipment

• Proven ability to independently create complex 3D designs from scratch (not just modify existing models)

Technical Skills

• Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD platform

• Strong understanding of mechanical systems, materials, and fabrication methods

• Experience designing for real-world conditions (assembly, stress, wear, manufacturability)

• Ability to read and interpret mechanical and electrical schematics

• Working knowledge of pneumatics, hydraulics, and structural components

Preferred Background

• Automation systems, robotics, or custom machinery design

• Experience working closely with shop teams or on prototype builds

• SolidWorks certifications (CSWA/CSWP) a plus

What This Role Is NOT

• Not an entry-level or training-heavy position

• Not a drafting-only role—this is true engineering design ownership

• Not a sales or customer-facing commercial role

• Not a project management position (though collaboration is key)

Work Environment

• Split between engineering office and active shop floor

• Hands-on involvement with builds, testing, and troubleshooting

• Occasional travel for system validation or field support (~10%)

Compensation & Benefits

• $65K – $105K base salary (depending on experience)

• 401(k) with company match

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• Paid time off

• Flexible scheduling

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Immediate impact—your designs go straight into production

• High-visibility role working on custom, non-cookie-cutter equipment

• Strong collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams

• Opportunity to grow into senior or lead design roles