Axis Automation

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Automation at Axis Automation (Walker Michigan, United States)

Axis Automation· Walker Michigan, United States·

Job description

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Custom Automation & Machine Design

Axis leverages the teamwork of our leading engineers and machine builders to conceptualize, design, integrate, and service factory automation systems for forward-thinking manufacturing customers.

We're looking for an experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer who enjoys solving technical challenges, leading projects, and bringing innovative automation concepts to life.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design innovative custom automation equipment, machine assemblies, and tooling using SolidWorks.
  • Lead mechanical design efforts from concept through manufacturing, assembly, testing, and customer startup.
  • Collaborate with Controls Engineers, Machine Builders, Project Managers, and Manufacturing teams to deliver complete automation solutions.
  • Develop robust, manufacturable designs while balancing performance, reliability, cost, and ease of assembly.
  • Review customer requirements and transform concepts into practical automation solutions.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical design challenges during assembly, integration, and commissioning, developing effective long-term solutions.
  • Work directly with customers and suppliers to clarify requirements, evaluate components, and support successful project execution.
  • Mentor junior mechanical engineers through technical guidance, design reviews, and knowledge sharing.
  • Identify opportunities to improve engineering standards, design practices, and overall project efficiency.

Qualifications:

  • 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience in custom automation, machine design, or industrial equipment.
  • Strong proficiency with SolidWorks or comparable 3D CAD software.
  • Experience designing custom machinery, automation systems, or industrial equipment.
  • Working knowledge of GD&T, manufacturing processes, and machine design best practices.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional engineering teams and customers.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
  • A passion for mentoring others and contributing to a collaborative engineering culture.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with robotic integration and automated manufacturing systems.
  • Knowledge of pneumatic systems, servo-driven mechanisms, and motion systems.
  • Experience supporting projects through machine build, integration, and customer startup.
  • Previous experience leading projects or mentoring junior engineers.
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline preferred.

Benefits:

  • Exposure to a wide variety of projects across multiple industries.
  • Comprehensive benefits package with eligibility immediately upon hire.
  • Collaborative team environment.
  • Opportunities for career growth.

Salary Range: $90,000 - $115,000

Why work at Axis Automation

  • Culture: Described as “powerhouse team with exceptional project execution” and a “collaborative culture”; employee reviews on LinkedIn rate culture 5.0/5.0 and career opportunities 4.4/5.0.
  • Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package with immediate eligibility upon hire.
  • Career Development: Strong promotion-from-within philosophy; co-op/internship pipeline to full-time roles.
  • Work Environment: Offices in Grand Rapids, MI; no explicit remote/hybrid policy mentioned, likely on-site given the hands-on nature of automation engineering.
  • Team: Small but tight-knit (51 employees) with experienced leadership across engineering, project management, and applications.

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