What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mechanical Designer (Wisconsin) position at AA Anderson & CO INC?
Summary: The Mechanical Designer is responsible for converting quoted system concepts into detailed 3D models, customer approval drawings, fabrication drawings, and production-ready documentation. This role supports both standard pump/motor base assemblies and custom fluid process systems.
This position requires strong SolidWorks skills combined with practical knowledge of fabrication and piping systems. The Mechanical Designer works closely with engineering, suppliers, and the shop floor to ensure designs are accurate, buildable, and delivered on schedule, while reviewing and incorporating customer specifications to ensure alignment with required materials, standards, and project requirements. The role also includes sourcing components, obtaining vendor quotes, and building and maintaining Bills of Material within the ERP system.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Customer Specifications & Requirements
- Review customer specifications, datasheets, and project requirements
- Ensure designs align with specified materials, connection types, and standards
- 3D Modeling & Assembly Design
- Create 3D assemblies in SolidWorks using supplier-provided STEP files (pumps, motors, gearboxes, valves, etc.)
- Design and detail:
- Pump/motor/gearbox base assemblies
- Baseplates and risers
- Coupling guards
- Structural frames (square tubing skids, carts)
- Piping Weldments and routed piping systems
- Ensure proper fit, alignment, access, and serviceability of all components
- Drawings & Customer Approvals
- Generate 2D approval drawings for customer review
- Revise drawings based on internal and customer feedback
- Ensure drawings reflect applicable customer specifications and project requirements
- Support drawing review calls with customers as needed
- BOM Management & Vendor Sourcing
- Build and maintain Bills of Material in ERP system (P21)
- Identify and add all required fabrication/piping components
- Source components and obtain vendor quotes for:
- Fabricated items (baseplates, guards, plasma cut parts)
- Purchased components and raw materials (steel, plate, tubing, etc.)
- Piping Components
- Ensure BOM accuracy prior to release for fabrication
- Fabrication & Assembly Support
- Work directly with fabrication and assembly teams during build
- Answer questions and resolve design issues in real time
- Modify designs as required due to:
- Fit-up issues
- Supplier model inaccuracies
- Changes in purchased components
- Ensure final design intent is maintained through production
- Assist in creating work instructions for commonly built systems
- As-Built Documentation
- Update drawings to reflect final constructed condition
- Maintain accurate records of completed assemblies
- Incorporate field or shop changes into final documentation
Education/Experience Required:
- Associate’s degree in Mechanical Design, Drafting, or related field
- 3 years experience in related field
Required Skills:
- Proficiency in SolidWorks (3D modeling and 2D drawing creation)
- Microsoft Office Products, ERP (Epicor P21 or similar)
- Ability to review and interpret customer specifications and apply them to design work
- Ability to create detailed fabrication drawings from 3D assemblies
- Strong attention to detail and ability to work through design issues independently
- Ability to manage multiple projects and shift priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Effective communication skills and willingness to work closely with shop personnel and internal teams
Preferred Skills:
- Applications experience in fluid handling industry
- Familiarity with piping systems and components, experience with ASME B31.3
- Understanding of Basic pipe routing and layout practices
- General knowledge of fabrication methods
- Hands-on experience in fabrication, welding, or mechanical assembly
Physical Requirements:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job function satisfactorily. A reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with a covered disability to perform the essential functions of the position as long as an undue hardship is not imposed.
Anderson Process is an Equal Opportunity Employer