What are the responsibilities and job description for the Pneumatic Systems Design Engineer position at Tri-Phase Automation?
Company: Tri-Phase Automation
About Us:
Tri-Phase Automation is a unique distributor with over 25 years of experience in the automation industry. We are the trusted partner for manufacturing companies in Wisconsin and Northern Illinois, offering innovative solutions with the widest range of products and services in the Midwest. Our degreed engineers form lasting relationships with customers, acting as an extension of their engineering teams. Rely on us to reduce risk, lower costs, and provide exceptional value-added services based on your specific needs. Experience the Tri-Phase advantage in automation.
Visit our Website: www.tri-phase.com
Summary:
We are seeking a highly driven Mechanical Designer with Pneumatic Systems experience to design and deliver Value-Added Services solutions. This role is critical in designing, implementing, and supporting custom pneumatic automation solutions while collaborating closely with sales, engineering, and production teams. The focus will be on simplifying designs, reducing connections, and improving reliability and serviceability for pneumatic assemblies.
Duties and Responsibilities:
#manycompaniesoneteam
#FCGcareers
#flowcontrolgroup
Tri-Phase Automation operates as a vital subsidiary within Flow Control Group (FCG), a prominent holdings company that is a leading solutions provider focused on technically oriented products and services for flow control, fluid handling and process, industrial automation, and life sciences with locations throughout North America. As a critical intermediary between over 3,000 suppliers and 15,000 customers, over 90 brand companies, and close to 1,700 employees, FCG’s distribution and technical expertise serve an essential function in the movement of mission-critical components to a diverse array of end markets and applications.
Why Build a Career with Us?
Everyone’s an Owner of the Company: Because every team member contributes to Flow Control Group’s success, everyone has the benefits of ownership! Flow Control Group has a broad-based employee ownership program extended to every employee within our portfolio companies.
Competitive Benefits: Enjoy an attractive benefits package that includes Medical, Dental and Vision insurance (among other plans), competitive 401(k) matching program, career growth opportunities, employee referral program, paid time off and holidays, as well as parental leave.
Training: FCG University learning and training platform available to all employees offering over 80k courses.
Career Growth Opportunities: At Flow Control Group, we are committed to your professional development. With a vast network of over 100 brands across North America, we provide unparalleled opportunities for growth and advancement. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to take it to the next level, we offer custom training programs, mentorship, and a supportive environment to help you achieve your goals. Join us and be part of a dynamic team where your contributions make a real impact.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Flow Control Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or any other legally protected characteristics.
About Us:
Tri-Phase Automation is a unique distributor with over 25 years of experience in the automation industry. We are the trusted partner for manufacturing companies in Wisconsin and Northern Illinois, offering innovative solutions with the widest range of products and services in the Midwest. Our degreed engineers form lasting relationships with customers, acting as an extension of their engineering teams. Rely on us to reduce risk, lower costs, and provide exceptional value-added services based on your specific needs. Experience the Tri-Phase advantage in automation.
Visit our Website: www.tri-phase.com
Summary:
We are seeking a highly driven Mechanical Designer with Pneumatic Systems experience to design and deliver Value-Added Services solutions. This role is critical in designing, implementing, and supporting custom pneumatic automation solutions while collaborating closely with sales, engineering, and production teams. The focus will be on simplifying designs, reducing connections, and improving reliability and serviceability for pneumatic assemblies.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Independently design and develop pneumatic automation systems from scratch or by integrating vendor products.
- Create detailed designs and schematics for pneumatic and electro-pneumatic systems based on customer/project requirements.
- Design mechanical and fluid power end effectors for robotics
- Size and select appropriate components such as valves, cylinders, and tubing to meet system specifications.
- Calculate and size pneumatic cylinders for airflow, force, and speed requirements.
- Use SolidWorks to produce 3D models and technical documentation for assembly.
- Analyze system performance (pressure, airflow, loads) and implement value engineering to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
- Collaborate with sales teams, customers, and internal engineering groups to deliver tailored solutions.
- Support installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of pneumatic systems both onsite and at our main facility.
- Ensure designs adhere to ISO standards, NFPA guidelines, and industry best practices.
- Interface with electrical design teams when combining pneumatics with electrical systems.
- Provide training and technical support to internal teams and customers during testing and startup phases.
- Work alongside our assembly team to develop prototypes, build and test systems.
- Other duties as assigned.
- 5–7 years of relevant experience in pneumatic solutions and mechanical design.
- Proven expertise in pneumatic design, valve selection, actuator sizing, and air preparation systems.
- Strong understanding of fluid power theory, air logic circuitry, and industrial automation principles.
- Knowledge of both pneumatic and electro-pneumatic components.
- Understanding of PLC integration, sensor technologies, and control panels, including basics of electrical wiring.
- Proficiency in CAD tools (SolidWorks or AutoCAD) and pneumatic software such as Festo’s FluidSIM and FluidDraw.
- Ability to perform calculations related to pressure, flow, and loads.
- Ability to lift loads up to 50 lbs.
- Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently or in a team environment.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
- Attention to detail and commitment to documentation accuracy.
#manycompaniesoneteam
#FCGcareers
#flowcontrolgroup
Tri-Phase Automation operates as a vital subsidiary within Flow Control Group (FCG), a prominent holdings company that is a leading solutions provider focused on technically oriented products and services for flow control, fluid handling and process, industrial automation, and life sciences with locations throughout North America. As a critical intermediary between over 3,000 suppliers and 15,000 customers, over 90 brand companies, and close to 1,700 employees, FCG’s distribution and technical expertise serve an essential function in the movement of mission-critical components to a diverse array of end markets and applications.
Why Build a Career with Us?
Everyone’s an Owner of the Company: Because every team member contributes to Flow Control Group’s success, everyone has the benefits of ownership! Flow Control Group has a broad-based employee ownership program extended to every employee within our portfolio companies.
Competitive Benefits: Enjoy an attractive benefits package that includes Medical, Dental and Vision insurance (among other plans), competitive 401(k) matching program, career growth opportunities, employee referral program, paid time off and holidays, as well as parental leave.
Training: FCG University learning and training platform available to all employees offering over 80k courses.
Career Growth Opportunities: At Flow Control Group, we are committed to your professional development. With a vast network of over 100 brands across North America, we provide unparalleled opportunities for growth and advancement. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to take it to the next level, we offer custom training programs, mentorship, and a supportive environment to help you achieve your goals. Join us and be part of a dynamic team where your contributions make a real impact.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Flow Control Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or any other legally protected characteristics.