Mechanical Engineering Manager

Acieta; Livonia (MI); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automation firm in Livonia, Michigan seeks a Mechanical Engineering Manager to lead a high-impact engineering group. In this role, you will drive the design and development of cutting-edge automated systems, mentor an engineering team, and ensure projects are on track and within budget. A strong background in mechanical engineering, leadership skills, and familiarity with CAD software are crucial for success. Join our rapidly growing team and help shape the future of automation.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience using AutoDesk, AutoCAD, and SolidWorks.
• 8+ years of relevant mechanical engineering experience.
• Ability to interpret and create technical drawings.

Responsibilities

• Lead a high-performing engineering team in design and development.
• Establish and uphold engineering standards and workflows.
• Collaborate closely with Manufacturing, Field Service, and Sales.

Skills

Leadership

Mechanical design

Problem-solving

Communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Applied Engineering, or related field

Master's degree in Engineering

Tools

AutoDesk

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

Job description

As a leading automation integrator, Acieta designs and delivers custom solutions powered by cutting‑edge robotics and advanced technologies, from FANUC and KUKA systems to vision‑guided applications, palletizing, and fully integrated cells. With operations across the U.S. and customers worldwide, Acieta combines the agility and collaborative culture of a small company with the resources and expertise to execute large‑scale, transformative projects. Join our rapidly growing team and help shape the next era of automation.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future visa sponsorship. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Join Our Team as a Mechanical Engineering Manager:

Join our team as a Mechanical Engineering Manager and lead a high‑impact engineering group driving the design, development, and testing of cutting‑edge automated systems. You’ll own the mechanical and manufacturing engineering process—from refining workflows and boosting departmental performance to solving complex debug challenges that keep projects moving. In this role, you’ll mentor an ambitious engineering team, elevate technical execution, and ensure projects stay on track and on budget by aligning resources with fast‑paced automation demands.

What You Get to Do:

• Lead a high‑performing engineering team, driving innovative, cost‑effective mechanical designs with exceptional accuracy and documentation.
• Establish and uphold engineering standards, workflows, and best practices that elevate system quality and team performance.
• Partner with Project Management to build complete, achievable project schedules and proactively identify risks in design, cost, or timing—then engineer solutions before they impact delivery.
• Guide regular design reviews, providing expert technical direction that enables practical, efficient, and automation‑ready solutions.
• Define comprehensive FAT/SAT requirements and support mechanical debug to ensure every system meets CI and customer validation standards.
• Promote engineering excellence through performance reviews, mentorship, and a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and safety.
• Champion standardization across equipment, software, and PDM systems to streamline workflows and strengthen project execution.
• Ensure high‑quality operations manuals are delivered on time at system commissioning.
• Collaborate closely with Manufacturing, Field Service, and Sales to support builds, installations, troubleshooting, and proposal development.
• Uphold ISO documentation requirements and reinforce a safe, injury‑free workplace.
• Take on additional responsibilities aligned with your expertise as needed in our fast‑moving automation environment.
• Performs other duties as assigned, which are reasonably related to the scope of the position and necessary for business operations.

What You Bring to the Team:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Applied Engineering, or related field (required); a Master’s degree in Engineering is a strong plus.
• 10+ years of experience using AutoDesk, AutoCAD, and SolidWorks, with additional 2D/3D CAD platforms welcomed.
• 8+ years of relevant mechanical engineering experience or 15+ years of machine/product design experience, including 5+ years leading engineering teams.
• Preferred background in robotics or automation system design, especially projects involving multi‑component systems, machine tool load/unload, and custom fixturing.
• Proven leadership capabilities—clear communication, team motivation, conflict resolution, and strong coaching skills that elevate engineering performance.
• Ability to interpret and create technical drawings, blueprints, fabrication specs, and produce clear engineering reports and documentation.
• Strong mathematical foundation, including geometry, trigonometry, and applied statistical reasoning.
• Excellent analytical and troubleshooting skills—able to break down complex problems, validate assumptions, and drive sound engineering conclusions.
• A valid driver’s license with the ability to travel up to 25% as needed.
• Deep understanding of engineering science, modern manufacturing technologies, and project management methodologies.
• Comfortable collaborating with cross‑functional experts and contributing effectively in high‑knowledge technical environments.
• Hands‑on familiarity with robotics, PLCs, sensors, pneumatics, and standard automation hardware, with a willingness to continually learn new technologies.
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Outlook, Word, ERP/MRP systems, and CAD/PDM environments.
• Ability to prioritize workloads, meet deadlines with minimal oversight, and turn sketches or verbal concepts into fully engineered mechanical solutions.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands listed below represent essential functions of this role. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Ability to remain in a stationary position and move about the worksite as needed.
• Frequent use of hands to operate tools, controls, and equipment; occasional positioning of self to access low or elevated areas.
• Regular lifting and moving of up to 25 lbs., frequent lifting of up to 50 lbs., and occasional lifting of up to 100 lbs.
• Visual requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Working Conditions SHOP FLOOR:

The conditions described below represent the typical environment for this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Position is based in a fabrication shop/ requires travel to manufacturing plants with hands‑on involvement and oversight responsibilities.
• Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts and potential electrical hazards.
• Noise levels are typically loud, consistent with industrial manufacturing environments.

Working Conditions OFFICE:

The following outlines the typical environment for this position. Reasonable accommodations are available to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws.

• Primarily based in an office setting, with occasional visits to a fabrication/manufacturing floor for oversight, inspection, or collaboration.
• Periodic exposure to moving machinery, mechanical components, and potential electrical hazards, requiring attention to safety protocols and appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Manufacturing areas are characterized by elevated noise levels consistent with industrial workspaces, where standard hearing protection may be necessary.
• Occasional walking or standing during floor visits; administrative tasks are performed seated in an office environment.
• We comply with OSHA regulations to maintain a safe workplace and ensure employees are provided with proper protective equipment and training for industrial areas.