Custom Machine Designer

CARR Machine & Tool, Inc.; Kentwood, Northern (MI, KY); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

NN, Inc. is seeking a CAD Design Engineer to design, build, assemble, and support custom automated machinery and tooling.

You will produce CAD models, drawings, BOMs, and documentation while interpreting customer specifications and collaborating with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Operations from concept to production. The role emphasizes hands-on machine building, testing, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement, with emphasis on manufacturability and reliability in a

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology or related field preferred.
• Minimum 2 years of CAD design experience using SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software.
• Minimum 2 years of custom machine building, tooling, automation, or related manufacturing experience.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience considered.
• Ability to read engineering prints, assembly drawings, and technical specifications.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Design custom machinery, tooling, fixtures, and automation equipment from sketches and specifications.
• Create and maintain 3D CAD models, BOMs, and documentation using SolidWorks.
• Interpret drawings and translate into technical format with GD&T.
• Create operation control plans and tooling drawings.
• Assist Quality with gaging and inspection fixtures.
• Build, install, and test custom machines and automation systems.
• Support machine modifications, retrofits, and startup activities.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Operations.
• Follow QMS and EMS policies.

Skills

CAD Design

SolidWorks

GD&T

Reading Drawings

Troubleshooting

MS Office

Mechanical Aptitude

Education

Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology

Tools

SolidWorks

3D CAD Software

Job description

Who We Are:

Autocam, a division of NN, Inc., is a leading manufacturer of high-performance precision components. We combine innovative thinking with machining technologies to push the boundaries of what is possible. NN Inc. is a global diversified industrial manufacturer dedicated to driving customer success through innovation and quality. With over 3,200 employees across 23 manufacturing facilities worldwide, we are committed to delivering high-performance precision components.

**SUMMARY:

Design, build, assemble, troubleshoot, and support custom automated machinery, tooling, fixtures, and manufacturing equipment. Produce detailed CAD models and working drawings for manufacturing while interpreting customer specifications, drawings, and technical sketches. Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Operations teams to develop custom machine solutions from concept through final assembly, testing, and production support.

**ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

**include but are not limited to:

***CAD Design & Engineering

• Design custom machinery, tooling, fixtures, and automation equipment from rough sketches, concepts, customer requirements, and engineering specifications.
• Create and maintain 3D CAD models, assemblies, detail drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), and documentation using SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software.
• Interpret customer drawings and technical sketches and translate them into the company's technical format.
• Apply proper GD&T practices to all technical documents and drawings.
• Create and modify operation control plans, tool information sheet layouts, tooling drawings, machine layouts, and floor plans.
• Assist the Quality Department in the design and documentation of gaging and inspection fixtures.
• Support engineering change requests and maintain drawing revisions and documentation.

***Machine Building & Assembly

• Build, assemble, and install custom machines, fixtures, tooling, and automated systems according to engineering drawings and specifications.
• Fit, align, adjust, and verify mechanical components to ensure proper machine function.
• Perform machine setup, testing, troubleshooting, debugging, and validation activities.
• Work with pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical, and electromechanical components.
• Identify design improvements and provide feedback to Engineering for manufacturability, reliability, and performance enhancements.
• Support machine modifications, retrofits, repairs, and continuous improvement projects.
• Assist with equipment installation, startup, and customer acceptance activities as required.

***Continuous Improvement & Support

• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, cost reduction, and process optimization.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve manufacturing and equipment-related issues.
• Maintain accurate project documentation and communicate project status to management and team members.
• Understand and follow the Quality Management System (QMS) and Environmental Management System (EMS).
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and standards.

**EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

**¨NBSP;

***Required

• Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Engineering Design, Industrial Technology, Machine Design, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of CAD design experience using SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of custom machine building, machine assembly, tooling, automation, or related manufacturing experience preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered.
• Ability to remain productive under indirect supervision and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Experience reading engineering prints, assembly drawings, and technical specifications.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Proficient in standard Microsoft Office applications.
• Proficient in SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and assembly documentation.
• Knowledge of machine design principles, manufacturing processes, and mechanical systems.
• Working knowledge of pneumatics, hydraulics, sensors, bearings, drives, and automation components preferred.
• Familiarity with machining, fabrication, welding, assembly, and manufacturing processes.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.

***Preferred

• Experience with custom automation, robotic systems, conveyors, fixturing, or special machinery.
• Experience with pneumatic and hydraulic system design and assembly.
• Welding, machining, fabrication, or maintenance experience.
• Experience supporting machine installation and startup at customer facilities.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.