Machine Design Engineer, Automation

Applied Medical; Rancho Santa Margarita (CA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits package

401(k) program with employer match

Job summary

Applied Medical in Rancho Santa Margarita is looking for a Design Engineer to support automated manufacturing initiatives in medical device production. This role will involve designing innovative equipment while working closely with cross-functional teams to ensure efficiency and compliance.

The successful candidate will hold a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and be proficient in CAD software like SOLIDWORKS. A competitive salary of $75,000 - $100,000/year, along with a comprehensive benefits package, is offered.

Qualifications

• Holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field.
• Uses solid-modeling software such as SOLIDWORKS or CATIA.
• Applies mechanical knowledge to design and modify equipment.

Responsibilities

• Develop automated equipment for medical device manufacturing.
• Design and modify electro-mechanical machinery.
• Evaluate machine concepts through feasibility and risk analysis.

Skills

Mechanical engineering principles

Solid-modeling CAD software

Electro-mechanical systems

Automation systems

Cross-functional communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SOLIDWORKS

CATIA

Pro ENGINEER

Job description

Applied Medical is a new‑generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field. Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute to a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions.

The design engineer supports Applied Medical’s automated manufacturing initiatives by designing and developing innovative equipment and processes used in in‑house medical device production. Based at Applied Medical’s global United States headquarters, this role contributes directly to scalable automation, manufacturing efficiency, and cost reduction.

Working closely with cross‑functional engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams, the design engineer translates manufacturing and product requirements into reliable mechanical and electro‑mechanical solutions. This position contributes to the advancement of medical device engineering and product development engineering through hands‑on machine design, testing, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop automated equipment, fixtures, and mechanical systems that support medical device manufacturing and automation initiatives.
• Design and modify electro‑mechanical machinery using three‑dimensional computer‑aided design software such as SOLIDWORKS, CATIA, or Pro ENGINEER.
• Apply mechanical engineering principles including materials, mechanics, design for manufacturing, and systems integration.
• Evaluate machine concepts using feasibility analysis, return on investment assessments, prototype testing, and risk evaluation methods such as Failure Mode and Effects Analysis.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to translate requirements into effective technical solutions.
• Conduct experiments and testing to optimize automated processes, equipment parameters, and machine performance.
• Create and maintain regulatory and technical documentation including design specifications, test plans, qualification protocols, and manufacturing instructions.
• Support compliance with Applied Medical manufacturing quality systems, safety standards, and company policies.

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Delivering reliable automated equipment that improves manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and cost effectiveness.
• Driving continuous improvement through data‑driven design decisions and practical engineering solutions.
• Ensuring regulatory compliance through accurate, complete, and well‑maintained engineering documentation.
• Strengthening collaboration across engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams.
• Communicating complex technical concepts clearly to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Contributing to innovative medical device automation solutions that support long‑term business growth.

Position Requirements

• Holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related engineering discipline, including a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering.
• Applies foundational mechanical engineering knowledge related to mechanical systems, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Uses solid‑modeling computer‑aided design software such as SOLIDWORKS, CATIA, or Pro ENGINEER.
• Designs or upgrades automated equipment in a team‑based engineering environment while managing multiple projects.
• Works with machining and assembly tools, equipment, and precision manufacturing techniques.
• Understands mechanical, pneumatic, and electronic components commonly used in industrial automation.
• Communicates effectively through written technical documentation and cross‑functional collaboration.
• Operates in clean room and laboratory environments as required.

Preferred

• Brings one year or more of experience designing, testing, or supporting electro‑mechanical and pneumatic systems.
• Designs industrial automation or manufacturing systems used in regulated environments such as medical device manufacturing.
• Uses product data management systems, product lifecycle management tools, and enterprise software such as Systems, Applications, and Products in Data Processing (SAP).
• Collaborates with external vendors to specify, source, and integrate machine components.
• Applies geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, tolerance stack‑up analysis, and precision machining principles.
• Demonstrates analytical problem‑solving skills when working with complex, multi‑variable mechanical systems.
• Partners with internal customers to define project requirements and deliver solutions that meet manufacturing needs.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation range: $75000 - $100000 / year (California).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Training and mentorship opportunities.
• On‑campus wellness activities.
• Education reimbursement program.
• 401(k) program with discretionary employer match.
• Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule.

Please note that the compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and bonus and incentive compensation plans may apply.

Our total reward package reflects our commitment to employee growth and well‑being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life.

All compensation and benefits are subject to plan documents and written agreements.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Applied Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.