Machine Design Engineer I
This entry-level Machine Design Engineer role involves designing custom automation equipment and special machines using CAD tools, under the mentorship of senior engineers. The position focuses on mechanical component selection, engineering drawings, and collaboration within a team to support continuous improvement in machine design. It offers hands-on experience in cutting-edge automation projects within a growth-oriented company.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Manufacturing (Machine & Automation Design).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is hiring an entry-level Mechanical Engineer to join its machine and automation design team in Byron Center, MI. This is a hands-on, full-time role where you will learn from senior engineers and contribute to the design of custom automation equipment and special machines.
- Design and detail custom machines, fixtures, and automation systems using engineering principles and CAD tools.
- Select and size mechanical components (gears, pumps, bearings, hydraulics, piping systems).
- Produce and review engineering drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), and bid specifications.
- Collaborate with mechanical designers, manufacturing, and controls engineers to bring concepts to production.
- Support continuous improvement, design validation, and documentation for manufacturability and serviceability.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field.
- Proficiency in SolidWorks preferred; experience with AutoCAD, Inventor, Creo/Pro‑E, or other 3D CAD platforms is also valuable.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Comfortable with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Must be authorized to work in the United States.
Preferred Experience
- Internship or co-op experience in machine design, automation, or material handling equipment.
- Exposure to robotics, servo systems, vision systems, or PLC-based controls.
- Familiarity with component selection (bearings, gearboxes, hydraulics) and basic structural design.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary range: $65,000 – $80,000 per year (depending on experience).
- Benefits: medical, dental, life insurance, paid vacation & holidays, 401(k) with company match, and annual performance bonuses.
- Mentorship-focused environment with hands-on training and professional development opportunities.
Location & Work Authorization
- Location: Byron Center, MI (on-site / local).
- Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.
Why Join
- Launch your mechanical design career working on industrial automation and special machines.
- Work directly with experienced design engineers and grow technical skills in SolidWorks and machine design.
- Be part of a manufacturing team focused on innovation, quality, and continuous improvement.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
Negotiate a higher salary! Check the salary ranges for this job type in your area.
View My Salary Range