Associate Design Engineer

Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled Associate Design Engineer to support our engineering and manufacturing operations specializing in advanced material work for the nuclear sector. This role is a dynamic blend of 3D modeling / CAD, mechanical design, technical documentation, and hands-on manufacturing support. You will not only be responsible for creating and managing CAD models, but you will also step into the manufacturing engineering space to map out process flows and strategically plan equipment layouts on the shop floor.

The ideal candidate is an expert SolidWorks user with a strong background in AutoCAD who understands how to design for manufacturability—particularly when it comes to welding and fabrication requirements. You will be successful here if you are comfortable stepping away from the desk and working directly on the factory floor to optimize workflows, support equipment installations, and drive production improvements.

Compensation

• $30 - $35 / hr

Responsibilities:

• 2D/3D Modeling & Drafting – Create, iterate, and maintain accurate 2D and 3D mechanical models and technical drawings using SolidWorks (critical) and AutoCAD.
• CAD Library & Data Management – Administer, organize, and rigorously maintain SolidWorks files, complex assemblies, and internal design standards to ensure engineering data hygiene and reusability.
• Factory Layout & Equipment Optimization – Use AutoCAD to draft and update facility layouts, applying basic process and manufacturing engineering principles to optimize equipment placement, clearances, and shop-floor workflows.
• Process Flow & Documentation – Develop, draft, and maintain process flow diagrams, technical reports, and engineering records that bridge the gap between design and physical manufacturing.
• Design for Manufacturability – Apply practical shop-floor thinking to designs, taking into account critical welding and fabrication considerations, mechanical joinery techniques, and real-world assembly constraints.
• Hands-On Production Support – Work directly in the manufacturing environment to assist with the installation, modification, and optimization of production equipment.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration – Partner tightly with engineering and operations teams to verify design intent, implement continuous improvements, and increase overall manufacturing efficiency.
• Inspection & Quality Support – Perform 2D and 3D inspections to create model variance reports, utilizing GD&T to inform quality checks and acceptance recommendations.

Qualifications

• Expert-level proficiency in SolidWorks
• Deep experience managing multi-part assemblies and applying GD&T on technical drawings.
• Strong proficiency in AutoCAD, specifically for 2D facility layout, equipment planning, and process flow diagramming.
• Solid understanding of mechanical design principles, with specific awareness of welding, fabrication, and mechanical joinery constraints.
• Ability to translate high-level engineering concepts into clear technical documentation, process maps, and manufacturing drawings.
• Comfortable working in a hands-on manufacturing and factory environment, engaging directly with shop-floor equipment and operators.
• This position is strictly limited to US Persons (as defined by 22 CFR § 120.62).

Preferred

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Design, Manufacturing Engineering, Drafting, or a related technical field.
• Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP) or equivalent certification.
• Demonstrated experience with factory layout planning, industrial facility design, or manufacturing system setup.
• Training or hands-on experience in GMP environments, particularly within chemical, advanced material, or raw material production plants.
• Strong background supporting process documentation, operational reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives.