Job Description

About the Role

We are looking for a Mechanical Design Engineer to join our design team building Special Purpose Machines (SPMs) for manufacturing and automation. You will create 3D CAD models and assemblies for machine components such as structural frames, jigs and fixtures, linear slides, and robotic handling systems. Working closely with senior engineers, the drafting team, and shop-floor personnel, you will help turn customer requirements into reliable, manufacturable machines.

This role suits an engineer who enjoys hands-on design work, likes to see their designs built and running, and wants to grow in the automation and machine-building field.

Key Responsibilities

3D Modeling and Design

Create accurate 3D CAD models of SPM components, including welded and extrusion-based structural frames, machine bases, guards, and enclosures.
Design jigs and fixtures for machining, welding, assembly, and inspection operations, applying sound locating and clamping principles.
Model linear motion systems such as slides, LM guide assemblies, ball screw drives, and pneumatic or servo-actuated mechanisms.
Develop end-of-arm tooling, grippers, and part-handling mechanisms for robotic and pick-and-place systems.
Select standard components (bearings, cylinders, guides, couplings, fasteners, sensors mounts) from vendor catalogs based on load, stroke, speed, and cost requirements.

Assemblies and Documentation

Build sub-assembly and main assembly models with correct constraints and a clean, organized model structure.
Prepare and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs), separating manufactured parts from bought-out items.
Perform interference checks, motion studies, and basic calculations to validate designs before release.
Follow company standards for file naming, revision control, and data management.

Design Changes and Improvement

Incorporate design changes arising from customer feedback, design reviews, manufacturing constraints, or assembly issues.
Update models, drawings, and BOMs promptly and keep revision records accurate.
Suggest improvements for cost reduction, ease of manufacturing, and ease of assembly (DFM/DFA).

Coordination

Work closely with the Senior Design Engineer to understand concepts, design intent, and project priorities.
Coordinate with the drafting team to ensure manufacturing drawings accurately reflect the 3D models, with correct dimensions, tolerances, and GD&T.
Liaise with purchase, production, and quality teams on material, component, and manufacturing queries.

Site and Assembly Support

Support the in-house assembly team during machine build, resolving fit-up and interference issues.
Visit customer sites when required for installation, trials, and troubleshooting.
Capture learnings from assembly and commissioning and feed them back into future designs.

Required Skills and Competencies

Technical Skills

Proficiency in at least one 3D CAD tool: SolidWorks (preferred), Autodesk Inventor.
Working knowledge of part modeling, assembly modeling, weldments, and sheet metal design.
Good understanding of fixture design principles, including the 3-2-1 locating method, clamping, and error-proofing (poka-yoke).
Familiarity with standard machine elements and their selection: LM guides, bearings, pneumatic cylinders, ball screws, and fasteners.
Knowledge of engineering materials (MS, EN-series steels, aluminium, etc.) and common heat treatments.
Understanding of manufacturing processes such as machining, fabrication, welding, and sheet metal work.
Basic knowledge of limits, fits, tolerances, and GD&T.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.

Soft Skills

Clear communication with engineers, draftsmen, and shop-floor staff.
Attention to detail and a methodical approach to design.
Willingness to learn and take feedback from senior engineers.
Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet project deadlines.
Practical, problem-solving mindset.

What We Offer

Opportunity to work on diverse automation projects across industries such as automotive, engineering, and consumer goods.
Exposure to the complete machine lifecycle, from concept to commissioning.
Mentorship from experienced design engineers.
Clear growth path to Senior Design Engineer and Project Lead roles.