Lead Designer

Pinnacle Partners, Inc; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Indianapolis is seeking a Mechanical Design Lead for a direct hire position. The role involves designing custom equipment and systems, primarily using SolidWorks, while ensuring projects are managed from concept to manufacturing. Qualified candidates should have significant engineering experience, ideally with proficiency in both SolidWorks and CNC machines. This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $110,000 to $125,000 annually, along with an annual bonus.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of relevant engineering experience or 2+ years with a Bachelor's degree.
• Ability to manage projects independently.
• Proficiency in 2D and 3D design environments.

Responsibilities

• Design custom equipment and systems for industrial coating operations.
• Develop 3D models and production drawings using SolidWorks.
• Support manufacturing teams to ensure equipment is built to specification.

Skills

Proficiency in SolidWorks

Working knowledge of CNC machines

Understanding of electrical components

Strong technical writing skills

Ability to independently manage projects

Education

Associate’s degree with 7+ years experience or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Comp: $110,000-$125,000 with annual bonus

Location: Indianapolis, IN

Our client is seeking immediate assistance in identifying a candidate for a Mechanical Design Lead direct hire position in Indianapolis, IN.

Responsibilities

• Design custom equipment, machinery, and systems supporting industrial coating operations
• Develop detailed 3D models and production drawings primarily using SolidWorks; AutoCAD is used occasionally, and 2D work is mainly for CAM software and part nesting
• Standardize components where possible, while completing a high volume of custom, clean-sheet designs
• Support fabrication and manufacturing teams on the shop floor to ensure equipment and systems are built correctly and to specification
• Create and maintain accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs)
• Work with a diverse range of manufacturing customers across multiple industries that utilize coating processes
• Spend approximately 80% of time in engineering and design work, with the remaining 20% split between administrative responsibilities (estimating, BOMs, project scheduling/management) and shop floor support
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the facility
• Manage projects through the full lifecycle—from initial concept and design, to customer approval, and through manufacturing—spanning timelines from a few weeks up to 12 months; full sales cycles for large equipment may extend up to three years
• Collaborate with external vendors and partners for specialized needs such as programming, motors, piping and fittings, conveyor systems, programmable hoists, RTO systems, and air handling systems

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Associate’s degree with 7+ years of relevant engineering experience or a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or a related field) with 2+ years of experience
• Working knowledge of CNC machines and their operation
• Understanding of electrical and automated components and how they integrate with mechanical systems
• Ability to independently manage projects with minimal direction and drive them through completion
• Proficiency in SolidWorks and/or AutoCAD within both 2D and 3D design environments
• Knowledge of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and lubrication systems, including pumps and servo systems
• Strong technical writing skills with the ability to clearly communicate design concepts, test results, and technical findings to cross-functional teams

TERMS: This is a direct hire position that pays from $110,000 - $125,000/yr.