Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer

Design Hire LLC; Portland (ME); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Design Hire LLC in Portland, ME seeks a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to lead concept-to-production of heavy‑duty machinery for demanding material handling in the pulp and paper sector. You will drive design, drafting, and technical direction across projects, collaborating with electrical and controls teams.

You will apply advanced hydraulics/pneumatics, manufacturability principles, and rigorous design reviews, with travel for kickoffs and installations while mentoring junior engineers and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years designing and detailing industrial machinery or equipment.
• Strong background in hydraulic and pneumatic system design.
• Experience developing heavy-duty machinery for large products and loads.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, fabrication methods, and DFM principles.
• Ability to interpret technical specs, standards, and customer requirements.
• Proven project coordination and technical leadership skills.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally for projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed mechanical designs for industrial machinery (strapping, wrapping, conveying, lifting, bale/roll handling).
• Create and review drawings, 3D models, assemblies, and documentation using CAD software.
• Perform calculations, evaluate loads, ensure structural integrity and reliability.
• Coordinate with electrical engineers to integrate mechanical systems with controls and power components.
• Oversee projects from design through installation and handoff; travel as required.

Skills

Mechanical design

Technical leadership

Project coordination

Travel willingness

Hydraulic systems

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Job description

Portland, United States | Posted on 11/03/2026

Design Hire is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for an established industrial equipment manufacturer known for developing innovative, heavy-duty machinery supporting demanding material-handling operations across the pulp and paper industry. This individual will lead the design and development of specialized equipment used to handle, move, lift, rotate, and process large products and materials. This is an excellent opportunity to join a skilled engineering team where technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and hands‑on project ownership make a direct impact.

Objective

Lead mechanical engineering design initiatives from initial concept through final production, ensuring equipment meets performance expectations, manufacturing requirements, and customer specifications. Provide technical direction throughout the engineering lifecycle while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver reliable, efficient, and cost‑effective machinery.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop detailed mechanical designs for industrial machinery, including strapping, wrapping, conveying, lifting, and bale or roll‑handling systems.
• Create and review engineering drawings, 3D models, assemblies, and technical documentation using CAD software.
• Perform engineering calculations, evaluate equipment loads, and ensure structural integrity and operational reliability.
• Coordinate with electrical engineers to integrate mechanical systems with automated controls and power‑driven components.
• Oversee engineering projects from design and fabrication through equipment installation, startup, commissioning, and customer handoff; travel domestically and internationally as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline.
• 10+ years of professional experience designing and detailing industrial machinery or specialized equipment.
• Strong background in hydraulic and pneumatic system design.
• Experience developing heavy‑duty machinery designed to handle large products and substantial operating loads.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, fabrication methods, and design‑for‑manufacturability principles.
• Ability to interpret technical specifications, engineering standards, and customer requirements.
• Proven project coordination and technical leadership skills, with the ability to manage multiple engineering priorities.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally for project kickoffs, equipment installations, and customer support.

Design Hire is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity / Aff… etc

Employment Eligibility: If hired, a Form I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification must be completed at the start of employment. Temporary work authorization or the need for sponsorship may disqualify you from employment.