What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mechanical Design Engineer position at Kent Automation & Kent Pultrusion?
About Us
Kent Automation Systems LLC DBA Kent Automation and Kent Pultrusion is a privately held manufacturing company in Kent, Ohio specializing in custom-engineered machine design and build with an emphasis on secondary operation automation equipment and pultrusion equipment. Key industries we design and build equipment for include window and door, composites (fiberglass, carbon fiber), fluid systems, and plastics.
Position Summary
We are seeking a skilled and motivated Mechanical Design Engineer with 3-10 years of hands-on experience designing and developing custom industrial automation systems. The ideal candidate brings a strong mechanical engineering foundation, advanced SolidWorks proficiency, and a passion for solving complex manufacturing challenges through innovative equipment design.
Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Lead the design and engineering of custom capital equipment projects
- Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and engineering drawings using SolidWorks
- Create and maintain accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs) and engineering documentation throughout the project lifecycle, including equipment manuals
- Collaborate with controls engineer on projects
- Lead design reviews with customers and coordinate with fabrication, machining, and assembly teams to ensure designs are manufacturable and on schedule
- Source and manage vendors; evaluate quotes, lead times, and technical compliance for purchased components
- Perform FEA / simulation analyses when required to validate structural integrity and optimize designs prior to fabrication
- Support machine build, debug, and commissioning activities on the shop floor and at customer sites as needed
- Identify continuous improvement opportunities and contribute to internal design standards and best practices
- Act in a manner that results in collaboration, teamwork, and respect toward all internal and external contacts
- Other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related field
- 3-10 years of experience designing custom automation or special-purpose machinery
- Expert-level proficiency in SolidWorks (parts, assemblies, drawings, and configurations)
- Demonstrated experience with FEA / simulation tools (SolidWorks Simulation or equivalent)
- Familiarity with PLC-based control systems and the ability to collaborate effectively with controls engineers
- Experience with servo motion control systems
- Proven ability to manage vendor relationships and maintain accurate BOMs and procurement documentation
- Strong GD&T knowledge and the ability to produce clear, complete engineering drawings
- Proficient in MS Office, particularly Excel
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work cross-functionally
- Strong attention to detail
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with robotics, material handling, or assembly automation
- Experience designing fabrication equipment for the window and door market
- Experience in CNC drilling, CNC routing, and saw systems
- Exposure to machine safety standards (ISO 13849, ANSI B11 series, or equivalent)
- Familiarity with Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
What We Offer
- Compensation commensurate with experience
- Benefits - Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-term and Long-term Disability, Retirement Plan with Company Contributions, Paid Time Off
Equal Opportunity Employer
Kent Automation and Kent Pultrusion is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit based factors.