Mechanical Designer I

ALKAR Inc.; Town of Lodi (WI); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

ALKAR Inc. is seeking an entry-level Mechanical Designer I to generate 3D models and 2D fabrication drawings in SolidWorks, supporting the mechanical engineering team on custom thermal processing equipment.

The role requires close supervision and regular design reviews, and is well-suited for new graduates or CAD-focused individuals. The position emphasizes applying CAD best practices, familiarity with manufacturing environments, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to ensure

Qualifications

• Associate degree in mechanical design/drafting or BS in Mechanical Engineering
• Strong CAD experience with SolidWorks and drawing creation
• Good understanding of basic manufacturing processes

Responsibilities

• Create 3D models and 2D detail drawings using SolidWorks per standards
• Apply modeling, dimensioning and tolerance stack-up best practices
• Produce clean fabrication drawings and bills of material
• Support senior engineers with revisions and redlines
• Collaborate with manufacturing and purchasing to resolve discrepancies

Education

Associate degree inMechanical design/drafting

BS in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

PDM/ERP systems

Job description

Position Summary

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.

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

Requirements

• 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 feedbackStrong 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