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# Design Engineer

- **Company:** Actalent
- **Location:** Jackson, MI, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $69,992.0 - $99,986.0
- **Contract:** Temporary to permanent
- **Skills:** 3d Models, Computer-Aided Design, Computer Vision, SolidWorks (CAD), Visual Systems, Build Process
- **Published:** October 31, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.adzuna.com/details/5947560992

## About the Role

* At least 5 years of experience designing complex machinery or industrial equipment, including cutting tools, conveyors, robotic controls and vision systems, and packaging tools.
 * Proficiency in 3D CAD design; SolidWorks experience is preferred, but strong expertise in any 3D CAD software is acceptable.
 * Hands-on experience with machine design for industrial applications.
 * Experience with packaging machinery and automated material handling systems.
 * Exposure to robotics and robotic vision systems within integrated machinery.
 * Familiarity with control systems, including PLC-based controls.
 * Ability to design complete systems that integrate mechanical, electrical, and control components to achieve a defined production outcome.
 * Demonstrated project leadership experience within engineering or machine design projects.
 * Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) or a closely related engineering discipline, or equivalent practical experience.
 * Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to evaluate designs using simulation tools.
 * Effective communication skills to provide direction and support to manufacturing teams and customers.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

 * Prior experience in the food and beverage packaging industry.
 * Understanding of systems-level engineering where customers purchase an integrated outcome rather than a single component.
 * Experience working with integrated systems that combine PLCs, robotic vision, conveyors, and electrical and mechanical subsystems.
 * Experience acting as a lead engineer and mentoring or guiding other engineers.
 * Interest in continuous learning and professional development, supported by access to online training resources such as Udemy after a defined period.
 * Formal engineering degree is preferred but strong relevant industry experience will also be considered., Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

## Description

This role focuses on designing and developing large, complex machinery for the food and beverage industry. The design engineer leads full lifecycle development from initial concept through 3D modeling, simulation, manufacturing support, and commissioning. The position centers on creating complete systems that integrate mechanical components, conveyors, cutting tools, packaging tools, controls, and robotic vision to deliver reliable, production-ready equipment., * Lead full lifecycle development of large machine projects from initial concept through commissioning.

 * Collaborate with stakeholders to understand customer requirements and translate them into complete system designs that deliver packaged baked goods ready for distribution.
 * Develop initial design concepts and sketches for new equipment and systems.
 * Create detailed 3D models of machinery, including cutting tools, conveyors, robotic controls and vision systems, and packaging tools.
 * Use simulation tools to evaluate design performance, verify functionality, and optimize effectiveness before fabrication.
 * Design entire integrated systems rather than isolated components, ensuring all mechanical, electrical, control, and robotic elements work together to achieve the desired outcome.
 * Incorporate controls (PLCs), robotic vision, conveyors, and electrical and mechanical parts into cohesive system designs.
 * Provide clear technical support to manufacturing teams during fabrication, assembly, and testing of equipment.
 * Answer questions, clarify design intent, and give direction to manufacturing and assembly teams throughout the build process.
 * Support commissioning activities to ensure equipment operates as designed in customer environments.
 * Act as a lead engineer on projects, coordinating design efforts and contributing to project planning and execution.
 * Collaborate with a team of design engineers and cross-functional colleagues in engineering, manufacturing, testing, sales, and support.
 * Continuously improve designs based on feedback from manufacturing, testing, and customer performance.
 * Maintain accurate design documentation, models, and specifications using 3D CAD tools.