Mechanical Design Engineer (SolidWorks) – Design Custom Automation Equipment from Specifications

Mechanical Design Engineer (SolidWorks) – Design Custom Automation Equipment from Specifications Job Overview We are seeking a skilled freelance Mechanical Design Engineer with SolidWorks experience to design custom automation equipment from project specifications. For each project, we will provide a detailed specification package, preferred components, example machines, and engineering guidance throughout the design process. Your role will be to develop the complete mechanical design in SolidWorks while following the provided requirements and best engineering practices. This position is ideal for someone with experience designing industrial machinery who can take a concept and turn it into a practical, manufacturable machine. Key Responsibilities Review project specifications, design requirements, and reference machines. Develop complete 3D mechanical designs in SolidWorks. Design machine frames, tooling, fixtures, guarding, and custom mechanical components. Integrate supplied and standard components such as: Linear guides and actuators Indexers Pneumatic components Sensors Conveyors Robots and end-of-arm tooling Design systems that are manufacturable, serviceable, and practical to assemble. Perform interference checks and ensure proper component integration. Communicate regularly regarding design progress and technical questions. Revise designs based on feedback and project reviews. Deliver complete SolidWorks assemblies and part files ready for detailing. Required Skills & Qualifications 3+ years of professional mechanical design experience. Strong proficiency with SolidWorks assemblies and part modeling. Experience designing industrial automation equipment, custom machinery, or manufacturing equipment. Solid understanding of mechanical engineering principles and machine design. Ability to interpret project specifications and develop practical design solutions. Strong attention to detail and good communication skills. Ability to work independently while collaborating with our engineering team. Preferred Qualifications Experience with automated assembly equipment. Knowledge of machining, fabrication, and sheet metal design. Familiarity with industrial automation components from manufacturers such as SMC, Hiwin, Yamaha, Fanuc, Schunk, and similar suppliers. Previous freelance or contract design experience. Project Details Projects range from individual mechanisms to complete automated machines. Software: SolidWorks (latest version or compatible). We will provide: Project specifications Preferred component lists Example machines and reference designs Engineering guidance and support throughout the project Deliverables typically include: Native SolidWorks part and assembly files (.sldprt and .sldasm) STEP files Design review packages as requested Manufacturing drawings may be requested as a separate phase. What We Offer Well-defined project requirements and reference materials. Engineering support throughout the design process. Opportunity for ongoing freelance work on future automation projects. Professional, straightforward collaboration with an experienced automation company. If you have experience designing industrial machinery and can create clean, practical SolidWorks designs from project specifications, we'd love to hear from you. Please include examples of similar machine design or automation projects in your proposal.