Job Title: Design Engineer
Job Description
This Design Engineer role focuses on creating custom manufacturing solutions, including jigs, fixtures, end effector tooling, and specialized equipment, primarily using SolidWorks. You will take ownership of projects from concept through implementation, performing mechanical and structural design, supporting analysis, and working closely with customers and internal teams. This position offers the opportunity to see your designs move from initial idea to fabrication, assembly, and installation, while contributing directly to the efficiency, safety, and precision of production operations.
Responsibilities
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Use SolidWorks to design jigs, fixtures, end effector tooling, and other custom equipment that support manufacturing and production operations.
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Perform structural design and finite element analysis (FEA) as needed to verify the strength, durability, and performance of designs.
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Develop detailed 3D models and engineering drawings to support machining, fabrication, and assembly activities.
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Collaborate closely with customers to review design concepts, align on technical requirements, and provide regular updates on project plans and schedules.
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Manage projects from concept through completion, coordinating design activities, timelines, and deliverables.
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Support the assembly and integration of your designs in the shop, ensuring that parts fit correctly and function as intended.
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Provide on-site support during installation at customer locations, assisting with fit-up, troubleshooting, and final adjustments.
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Work with machining and fabrication teams to ensure designs are manufacturable, cost-effective, and compatible with available equipment and processes.
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Contribute to the optimization of production processes and workflows through thoughtful design of tooling, jigs, fixtures, and material handling systems.
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Design equipment and tooling that enhance ergonomics and safety for operators while improving precision and repeatability on the production line.
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Collaborate with a close-knit, cross-functional team to solve engineering challenges and continuously improve design standards and practices.
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Maintain accurate design documentation and files using SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and related engineering tools.
Essential Skills-
Proficiency in SolidWorks for 3D modeling, drafting, and design of mechanical components and assemblies.
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Experience in mechanical design, including tooling and fixture design for manufacturing applications.
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Ability to perform or support structural design and FEA analysis to validate designs.
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Strong understanding of machining and fabrication processes and how they influence design decisions.
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Knowledge of machine design principles and mechanical engineering fundamentals.
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Computer skills with Microsoft products to support documentation, communication, and project coordination.
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Ability to work directly with customers to discuss requirements, present design concepts, and provide project updates.
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Experience supporting the assembly and installation of designed equipment, both in the shop and at customer sites.
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Capability to create clear, accurate engineering drawings and documentation for manufacturing and assembly.
Additional Skills & Qualifications-
Experience with machining equipment, fabrication equipment, and working within a fabrication or machine shop environment.
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Familiarity with AutoCAD for 2D drafting and layout work.
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Basic sheet metal design knowledge, including forming and fabrication considerations.
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Background in new product development and bringing mechanical designs from concept to production.
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Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field is favorable.
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Experience in project management, including planning, scheduling, and coordinating engineering deliverables.
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General engineering knowledge across mechanical systems, drafting standards, and 3D modeling best practices.
Work Environment
This role operates within a small, growing engineering and fabrication organization that designs, builds, and implements custom manufacturing solutions for large-scale production facilities. The company focuses on tooling, jigs, fixtures, and material handling systems that support and improve production operations. You will work as part of a close-knit, collaborative team where you can own projects from cradle to grave and see your work directly impact company growth and customer success. The environment emphasizes hands-on involvement, from concept and design in SolidWorks and AutoCAD to fabrication, assembly, and on-site installation at manufacturing plants. You will collaborate closely with plant personnel to engineer custom solutions that improve precision, repeatability, ergonomics, safety, and overall production efficiency. The organization offers long-term stability, high visibility, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to continuous improvement in manufacturing processes.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Georgetown, KY.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $38.00 - $45.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
- Medical, dental & vision
- Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
- 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
- Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
- Short and long-term disability
- Health Spending Account (HSA)
- Transportation benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
This is a fully onsite position in Georgetown,KY.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jul 10, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
