Precision Design Engineer
The Precision Design Engineer at Confidential Client supports the development of precision machine systems and components for prototype and manufacturing applications. This role involves mechanical design, CAD modeling, tolerance analysis, prototyping, testing, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver practical machine solutions. It offers structured growth opportunities in precision engineering and machine design within a leading materials science 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, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role Purpose
The Precision Machine Design Engineer will support the development of precision machine systems and components — from proof-of-concept prototypes to plant-floor manufacturing equipment. Working with guidance from senior engineers at the confidential client, you will contribute to concept development, detailed mechanical design, drawings, tolerance analysis, prototyping, testing, documentation, and implementation. This role provides structured opportunities to build technical capability in precision engineering principles, machine design, metrology, design documentation, and system integration.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the design and development of precision machine systems, tooling, fixturing, and mechanical components for R&D and manufacturing.
- Translate product and process needs into mechanical requirements, concepts, layouts, models, and drawings under guidance.
- Create and maintain 3D CAD models, assemblies, detailed drawings, bills of material, and supporting documentation.
- Perform basic engineering calculations and tolerance analyses (fits, stack-ups, loads, deflection, stiffness, thermal effects, motion).
- Select and specify standard mechanical components (bearings, linear guides, ball screws, motors, sensors, fasteners).
- Participate in design reviews and incorporate feedback on safety, manufacturability, cost, reliability, and maintainability.
- Develop and test proof-of-concept prototypes using lab, machine-shop, and measurement resources.
- Coordinate with suppliers and trades to obtain parts, resolve fabrication questions, and support assembly/installation.
- Assist with machine setup, debugging, qualification, and implementation in manufacturing or lab environments.
- Execute test plans, collect and organize data, compare results to requirements, and document findings.
- Participate in troubleshooting and root-cause analysis; escalate complex issues when appropriate.
- Communicate progress, risks, and technical results clearly to project teams and maintain accurate records.
Travel Requirements
- Estimated travel: 10%–25% depending on project needs.
- Travel may include equipment installation, startup support, supplier visits, and collaboration with internal customers.
Required Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Precision Engineering, Mechatronics, Electromechanical Engineering, or related field.
- Entry-level to 2 years of relevant engineering experience in machine design, equipment/product development, manufacturing engineering, or related areas — relevant co-op, internship, research, or project experience will be considered.
- Demonstrated application of mechanical engineering fundamentals through academic projects, internships, co-ops, research, or professional work.
Required Skills
- Foundational experience designing mechanical components, fixtures, tooling, or equipment (academic or hands-on).
- Working knowledge of statics, dynamics, materials, machine elements, manufacturing processes, fits, tolerances, and basic measurement principles.
- Ability to create and interpret engineering drawings; apply dimensioning and tolerancing practices.
- Experience using CAD software — SolidWorks experience and PLM/Vault familiarity preferred.
- Ability to perform basic engineering calculations and use data to support design decisions.
- Willingness and ability to learn new tools, seek guidance, and incorporate feedback.
- Strong problem-solving, organization, teamwork, and time-management skills.
- Good written and verbal communication skills.
Desired Skills
- Internship, co-op, senior design, research, or professional experience with machine design, automation equipment, precision mechanisms, tooling, or fixturing.
- Exposure to GD&T, tolerance stack-ups, design for manufacturability/assembly, or FEA.
- Experience with precision measurement tools (CMMs, laser trackers, autocollimators, indicators) or instrumentation.
- Familiarity with motion systems, motors, encoders, sensors, data-acquisition systems, or LabVIEW-based setups.
- Experience supporting prototype builds, lab testing, fabrication, machine assembly, or equipment debugging.
- Comfortable working safely in a hands-on development environment with changing priorities.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary range (full-time): $68,243.00 - $93,835.00. Starting pay depends on geographic location, market, experience, training, and education.
- Benefits summary: competitive health, dental, vision plans; paid parental leave; company-paid life insurance; disability coverage; retirement savings with employer contributions; paid time off; employee assistance programs; recognition and incentive programs.
- The confidential client offers programs and benefits designed to support health, financial well-being, and career development.
Additional Information
- This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
- The confidential client is committed to reasonable accommodations. Candidates with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodation to participate in the hiring process or perform essential job functions.
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.
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