Mechanical Designer I

ALKAR-RAPIDPAK, INC.; Town of Lodi (WI); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

ALKAR-RAPIDPAK, INC. is seeking an entry-level Mechanical Designer I to generate 3D models and 2D fabrication drawings using SolidWorks for custom thermal processing equipment.

The role supports the mechanical engineering team with close supervision and regular design reviews, ideal for new graduates or candidates with strong CAD experience. The successful candidate will contribute to design and detailing, collaborate with manufacturing and purchasing, and maintain organized design files.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in mechanical design/drafting or BS in Mechanical Engineering.
• 3+ years of CAD experience with SolidWorks (if not degree).
• Understanding of basic manufacturing processes (welding, machining, sheet metal).
• Attention to detail and accuracy in design output.
• Willingness to learn and accept feedback.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Hands-on manufacturing or fabrication experience (preferred).
• Familiarity with ERP or PDM systems (preferred).
• Clear communication skills with a collaborative, professional approach.

Responsibilities

• Create 3D models and 2D detail drawings using SolidWorks in accordance with company standards.
• Apply best practices in modeling, dimensioning, and tolerance stack-ups.
• Produce clean, manufacturable fabrication drawings and bills of material.
• Support senior engineers and design leads with revisions and redlines.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and purchasing to resolve part or drawing discrepancies.
• Maintain accurate file management in PDM or other design repositories.
• Participate in team meetings and design reviews as required.
• Other duties as assigned by leadership.

Skills

Attention to detail

Analytical skills

Clear communication

Willingness to learn

Team collaboration

Troubleshooting

Hands-on manufacturing experience

Education

Associate degree in mechanical design/drafting

BS in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

ERP or PDM systems

Job description

Description

The Mechanical Designer I is an entry-level role focused on generating 3D models and 2D fabrication drawings using SolidWorks. This position supports the mechanical engineering team in the design and detailing of custom thermal processing equipment and requires close supervision and regular design review. This role is suited for new graduates or individuals with strong CAD experience and practical knowledge of manufacturing environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Create 3D models and 2D detail drawings using SolidWorks in accordance with company standards
• Apply best practices in modeling, dimensioning, and tolerance stack-ups
• Produce clean, manufacturable fabrication drawings and bills of material
• Support senior engineers and design leads with revisions and redlines
• Collaborate with manufacturing and purchasing to resolve part or drawing discrepancies
• Maintain accurate file management in PDM or other design repositories
• Participate in team meetings and design reviews as required
• Other duties as assigned by leadership

Qualifications

• Associate degree in mechanical design/drafting, or BS in Mechanical Engineering
• Alternatively, 3+ years of CAD experience with demonstrated proficiency in SolidWorks and drawing creation
• Understanding of basic manufacturing processes (e.g., welding, machining, sheet metal)
• Attention to detail and accuracy in design output
• Willingness to learn and accept feedback
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills
• Hands-on manufacturing or fabrication experience (preferred)
• Familiarity with ERP or PDM systems (preferred)
• Clear communication skills with a collaborative, professional approach
• Aligned with a culture that values trust, teamwork, follow-through, and proactive problem solving

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Primarily office-based, with occasional work on the shop floor or at customer sites
• Environments may include temperature-controlled areas (heated or refrigerated)
• Occasional lifting of up to 50 lbs may be required