Lead Machine Design Engineer

SSOE is excited to invite applications for the position of Lead Machine Design Engineer. In this role, you will be instrumental in the detailed design and development of specialized machinery and material handling equipment that are vital to our manufacturing and industrial clients. Utilizing advanced CAD tools such as AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor, you will create coordinated, fabrication-ready 3D models and detailed 2D construction drawings for automated equipment. Your designs will incorporate mechanical components, structural weldments, and ductwork systems that comply with industry codes and fabrication standards.

Your expertise will directly support multidisciplinary project teams, collaborating with process engineers, controls/automation specialists, and structural designers to ensure seamless design integration across all disciplines. This position offers opportunities to engage closely with project managers and discipline leads to maintain project quality, adhere to schedules, and mitigate risks, in line with quality assurance and control protocols.

As part of our innovative culture, all team members will receive training on Microsoft Copilot, which will be a core tool in enhancing your daily work processes.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the mechanical design activities for machine and material handling equipment, including conveyors, lifts, feeders, and tailored fabrication weldments.

Develop and validate 3D CAD models and detailed 2D drawings, ensuring accuracy and adherence to standards.

Collaborate with process engineers, controls engineers, and structural designers to create cohesive multidisciplinary design packages.

Work closely with project managers to oversee design scope, milestones, release cycles, and manage revisions through change management procedures.

Conduct thorough design reviews internally and with clients, providing technical presentations and incorporating feedback to enhance constructability and performance.

Prepare technical submittals and evaluate supplier documentation for compliance and manufacturability.

Support procurement and fabrication teams by creating clear build packages, including bill of materials and assembly instructions.

Participate in site visits during installation and commissioning to ensure adherence to design intent and troubleshoot technical issues.

Maintain comprehensive project documentation, ensuring traceability and audit readiness.

Identify and resolve potential design conflicts or safety hazards pre-fabrication to reduce risks.

Engage in continuous process improvement initiatives to refine workflows and embed best practices in 3D modeling.

Mentor junior designers and interns to foster their skill development in CAD proficiency and equipment design fundamentals.

Assist in project budgeting and scheduling by estimating labor and material quantities, while monitoring costs throughout the project.

Utilize AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor automation features to accelerate design tasks and improve throughput.

Qualifications:

Minimum of 15 years' experience in mechanical design, particularly in machine design and material handling for manufacturing or industrial facilities.

Proficiency in AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor for 3D modeling and detailed drafting.

Strong understanding of mechanical fabrication and welding standards relevant to equipment manufacture.

Experience with ductwork systems, automation components, and fabrication weldments.

Exceptional communication skills for conveying technical information to project teams and clients.

Proven adherence to quality assurance/control protocols in design environments.

Experience working collaboratively within cross-functional teams throughout all project phases.

Salary Range: $90,000 - $100,000/year based on location, education, and experience along with performance bonuses.

Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, 401K plan, professional development opportunities, and generous paid time off.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with SolidWorks as an alternative to Inventor is an advantage.

Background in constructability reviews and knowledge of field installation practices.

Understanding of cost estimating and schedule impacts from design changes.

Demonstrated leadership skills through mentoring or leading technical teams.

Exposure to advanced modeling techniques, including CAD automation to enhance productivity.

Experience with industrial automation equipment and control systems integration.

Why SSOE: Join our dynamic team and contribute to a leader recognized for delivering complex industrial projects with precision. Our culture values innovation and mentorship, providing you the opportunity to expand your expertise and influence impactful systems.