About this position
Mechanical Design Engineer I
Mechanical Design Engineer I
Join Our Engineering Team
CHL Systems is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer I to support the design and development of custom automation and material handling systems in a fast-paced, design-build manufacturing environment.
This role is ideal for an early-career mechanical engineer (3–5 years of experience) who brings strong SolidWorks proficiency, mechanical aptitude, and a desire to contribute to high-quality custom equipment builds from concept through release to manufacturing.
This position plays a key role in translating customer specifications and project requirements into detailed 3D models, assemblies, and fabrication-ready documentation.
Why You'll Love Working Here
- Competitive compensation with growth and advancement opportunities
- Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, PTO, holidays)
- Family-owned company with 65+ years of manufacturing excellence
- Collaborative, safety-focused culture built on integrity and accountability
- Clear career path with advancement potential
What You'll Do
Mechanical Design & Modeling
- Develop detailed 3D models and assemblies in SolidWorks that meet customer design intent, functional requirements, and internal quality standards
- Generate fabrication-ready drawings, BOMs, and documentation for release to manufacturing
- Ensure subsystem components integrate effectively within overall system layouts
- Maintain part and assembly control within the PDM vault
- Perform other duties as assigned
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Collaborate with Project Engineers, Sales Engineers, Applications, Manufacturing, and Service teams to clarify technical requirements and design intent
- Participate in design review to validate manufacturability, serviceability, and system performance
- Incorporate feedback from manufacturing and production teams to support Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
Technical Review & Quality
- Review internal drawings, 3D models, and specifications to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with company standards
- Ensure designs meet applicable safety standards and industry requirements
- Identify and resolve technical design issues throughout project execution
Project Support
- Support small-to-midsize projects independently from concept through drawing completion
- Contribute to cost-effective design solutions aligned with scope, schedule, and budget constraints
- Provide occasional on-site support for installations or project needs (<5% travel)
Physical Demands
- Regular movement between office, manufacturing floor, and project environments
- Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods
- Occasional lifting up to 50 pounds
- Manual dexterity required for computer use and documentation
What We're Looking For
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering preferred
- 3-5 years of experience in mechanical equipment design, automation systems, or related manufacturing environment
- Strong proficiency in SolidWorks (modeling, assemblies, detailed drawings)
- Experience working within a PDM system
Technical Skills & Knowledge
- Experience designing mechanical systems, conveyance machines, or similar custom equipment
- Strong understanding of fabrication processes (welding, machining, sheet metal, structural assemblies)
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and BOMs
- Working knowledge of AutoCAD or 2D drafting tools a plus
- Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems preferred
Professional Skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management abilities
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment
- Ability to manage multiple assignments simultaneously
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
Work Environment
- Primarily office-based within a manufacturing environment
- Regular collaboration with production and fabrication teams
- Occasional exposure to shop-floor environments
- Travel to customer sites may be required (<5%)
About CHL Systems
For more than 65 years, CHL Systems has been a trusted leader in designing and manufacturing custom automation and material handling solutions. Serving the food, pharmaceutical, and general manufacturing industries, we combine innovation, craftsmanship, and a family-oriented culture to deliver high-quality systems that keep our customers' operations moving.
Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/D/V)