ZipRecruiter
Mechanical Automation Project Engineer
ZipRecruiter, Morrisville, North Carolina, United States, 27560
Job DescriptionJob Description
Job Description:
As a Mechanical Automation Project Engineer, you lead the design, integration, and delivery of advanced industrial automation and robotics systems. This role combines hands‑on mechanical design, project leadership, and cross‑disciplinary collaboration to bring high‑performance, automated manufacturing solutions to life.
You’ll serve as the bridge between concept and commissioning, partnering with internal teams, suppliers, and customers to ensure seamless integration of mechanical, electrical, and control systems.
Qualifications and Skills:
Required
BS/MS degree in Mechanical Engineering (Mechatronics degree or focus preferred)
6+ years in Mechanical Design & Sales support roles within the industrial automation sector with at least 3 years at a Robotic Systems Integrator designing custom machinery
Proficient in SolidWorks 3D CAD design and experience using SolidWorks PDM software
Experience sizing actuators, servos, sensors, and pneumatics
Knowledge of and experience with machining and other fabrication processes
Experience applying GD&T principles to part designs and drawings
Ability to effectively communicate with outside vendors/suppliers for machined parts to ensure vendor selection and that parts are received as intended
Experience and skill in prototyping, 3D printing, testing & debug
Experience with FAT, equipment installations and SAT at customer sites
Robotic automation cell design skills (reach/cycle analyses, safety, risk assessment)
Experience designing common robotic applications: assembly, material handling, palletizing etc.
Desired
Experience integrating machine vision and 3D laser sensors
Experience designing robotic systems with Fanuc and Universal Robots
Robotic simulation software and programming experience
Experience designing complex robotic applications: vision guided robotics, dispensing, material finishing etc.
Job Responsibilities:
Sales & Concept Support
Work with sales teams to visit customer plants and review SOW/RFQ specifications
Review client parts, 3D models and drawings to understand part complexity, tolerances and variances.
Prepare and deliver technical presentations, product demonstrations, and proof-of-concept solutions.
Recommend optimal products or systems to meet technical and budgetary needs.
Assist the sales team in generating accurate cost estimates, quotes, and proposals.
Translate customer requirements into engineered solutions, ensuring compatibility with product offerings.
Customize standard solutions to fit unique client applications.
Act as the primary technical contact for customers during the sales process.
Provide a smooth transition of technical requirements to project teams after order placement.
Mechanical Design & Development
Design complex machinery with pneumatic and electromechanical components in SolidWorks.
Design and integrate robots, EOAT, feeding devices and material handling cells.
Lead internal and customer design reviews.
Create 3D CAD models, assemblies, and detailed drawings for custom automation and robotic systems.
Produce high level designs and detail/assembly drawings for manufacturing.
Continuous Improvement
Identify opportunities to improve performance, reduce costs, and enhance system reliability.
Systems Integration
Collaborate with controls, electrical, and software engineers to integrate robotics (articulated arms, SCARA, Delta, cobots) into automated production lines.
Project Management
Lead projects from concept through FAT/SAT & Installation, ensuring scope, budget, and timelines are met while coordinating with coordinating with teams, suppliers, and clients.
Vendor & Supply Chain Coordination
Source and qualify components, manage supplier relationships, and oversee outsourced fabrication/assembly.
Compliance & Safety
Ensure designs meet OSHA, ANSI, CE, and relevant robotic safety standards (ISO 10218, RIA R15.06 etc.).
Conduct risk assessments for machine safety systems and robotic cells.
Build, Testing & Debugging
Oversee the building process of the equipment, leading a team of assemblers.
Lead test and debug efforts to jointly identify and resolve issues during the build phase, making adjustments across mechanical, electrical, and control systems as needed with other teams.
FAT/SAT & Installation
Develop, execute, and document comprehensive FAT/SAT protocols to validate mechanical, electrical, and control systems against performance specifications.
Lead on site SAT efforts, managing multidisciplinary teams to resolve deviations and ensure system acceptance.
Plan and coordinate all installation phases - mechanical assembly, electrical wiring, and controls integration; to meet project milestones.
Anticipate and mitigate installation and commissioning risks
Documentation
Technical writing and Equipment Documentation (test plans, operating manuals).
This position is fully in-office, located in Morrisville, NC. Remote or hybrid work options are not available, and relocation expenses are not covered.
About AAE North America
AAE North America is a family-owned technology company based in the Netherlands, recognized for its innovation, precision, and people-first approach. Located in Morrisville, NC—just minutes from Research Triangle Park—we provide groundbreaking high-tech solutions within a family-like culture.
Employee Benefits at AAE North America
At AAE North America, we believe in supporting our employees’ well-being, security, and growth. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Competitive Pay – Market-aligned compensation to recognize your skills and contributions.
Health Coverage – Company-sponsored medical, vision, and dental insurance to keep you and your family healthy.
Life Insurance – Company-provided life insurance for additional financial protection.
401(k) Plan – With employee contributions to help you build long-term financial security.
Paid Time Off (PTO) – Flexible paid time off to recharge and take care of personal needs.
Holiday Pay – Paid company holidays throughout the year.
Pushing the Boundaries of Technology
At AAE, we don’t produce standard machines. Instead, we develop advanced modules, systems, and complete automation solutions capable of producing up to 350 million products per year. Our offerings include precision components for revolutionary applications in the medical and semiconductor fields. All designs and manufacturing take place in Raleigh, NC, USA, or at our headquarters in the Netherlands, and we deliver our solutions worldwide. This means you'll have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology that is constantly evolving.
Our success stems from the drive, creativity, and pride of our team. At AAE, you’re not just an employee; you’re part of something great!
Respect for all people:
AAE North America is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to and in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on , color, sex, , , , , genetic information, , or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. AAE North America makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.
Please Note:
To 3rd Party Search Firms/Employment Agencies: Please do not call or email any AAE North America employee about current or future job openings. All resumes submitted by search firms or employment agencies to any employee at AAE North America via email, telephone, social media, or other means will be deemed to be the sole property of AAE North America unless the firm submitting the resume has previously entered into a written agreement with AAE North America regarding recruitment services and has been approved by Human Resources to work on an open position. AAE North America will not pay any or remuneration concerning candidates without complying with this requirement.
Job Description:
As a Mechanical Automation Project Engineer, you lead the design, integration, and delivery of advanced industrial automation and robotics systems. This role combines hands‑on mechanical design, project leadership, and cross‑disciplinary collaboration to bring high‑performance, automated manufacturing solutions to life.
You’ll serve as the bridge between concept and commissioning, partnering with internal teams, suppliers, and customers to ensure seamless integration of mechanical, electrical, and control systems.
Qualifications and Skills:
Required
BS/MS degree in Mechanical Engineering (Mechatronics degree or focus preferred)
6+ years in Mechanical Design & Sales support roles within the industrial automation sector with at least 3 years at a Robotic Systems Integrator designing custom machinery
Proficient in SolidWorks 3D CAD design and experience using SolidWorks PDM software
Experience sizing actuators, servos, sensors, and pneumatics
Knowledge of and experience with machining and other fabrication processes
Experience applying GD&T principles to part designs and drawings
Ability to effectively communicate with outside vendors/suppliers for machined parts to ensure vendor selection and that parts are received as intended
Experience and skill in prototyping, 3D printing, testing & debug
Experience with FAT, equipment installations and SAT at customer sites
Robotic automation cell design skills (reach/cycle analyses, safety, risk assessment)
Experience designing common robotic applications: assembly, material handling, palletizing etc.
Desired
Experience integrating machine vision and 3D laser sensors
Experience designing robotic systems with Fanuc and Universal Robots
Robotic simulation software and programming experience
Experience designing complex robotic applications: vision guided robotics, dispensing, material finishing etc.
Job Responsibilities:
Sales & Concept Support
Work with sales teams to visit customer plants and review SOW/RFQ specifications
Review client parts, 3D models and drawings to understand part complexity, tolerances and variances.
Prepare and deliver technical presentations, product demonstrations, and proof-of-concept solutions.
Recommend optimal products or systems to meet technical and budgetary needs.
Assist the sales team in generating accurate cost estimates, quotes, and proposals.
Translate customer requirements into engineered solutions, ensuring compatibility with product offerings.
Customize standard solutions to fit unique client applications.
Act as the primary technical contact for customers during the sales process.
Provide a smooth transition of technical requirements to project teams after order placement.
Mechanical Design & Development
Design complex machinery with pneumatic and electromechanical components in SolidWorks.
Design and integrate robots, EOAT, feeding devices and material handling cells.
Lead internal and customer design reviews.
Create 3D CAD models, assemblies, and detailed drawings for custom automation and robotic systems.
Produce high level designs and detail/assembly drawings for manufacturing.
Continuous Improvement
Identify opportunities to improve performance, reduce costs, and enhance system reliability.
Systems Integration
Collaborate with controls, electrical, and software engineers to integrate robotics (articulated arms, SCARA, Delta, cobots) into automated production lines.
Project Management
Lead projects from concept through FAT/SAT & Installation, ensuring scope, budget, and timelines are met while coordinating with coordinating with teams, suppliers, and clients.
Vendor & Supply Chain Coordination
Source and qualify components, manage supplier relationships, and oversee outsourced fabrication/assembly.
Compliance & Safety
Ensure designs meet OSHA, ANSI, CE, and relevant robotic safety standards (ISO 10218, RIA R15.06 etc.).
Conduct risk assessments for machine safety systems and robotic cells.
Build, Testing & Debugging
Oversee the building process of the equipment, leading a team of assemblers.
Lead test and debug efforts to jointly identify and resolve issues during the build phase, making adjustments across mechanical, electrical, and control systems as needed with other teams.
FAT/SAT & Installation
Develop, execute, and document comprehensive FAT/SAT protocols to validate mechanical, electrical, and control systems against performance specifications.
Lead on site SAT efforts, managing multidisciplinary teams to resolve deviations and ensure system acceptance.
Plan and coordinate all installation phases - mechanical assembly, electrical wiring, and controls integration; to meet project milestones.
Anticipate and mitigate installation and commissioning risks
Documentation
Technical writing and Equipment Documentation (test plans, operating manuals).
This position is fully in-office, located in Morrisville, NC. Remote or hybrid work options are not available, and relocation expenses are not covered.
About AAE North America
AAE North America is a family-owned technology company based in the Netherlands, recognized for its innovation, precision, and people-first approach. Located in Morrisville, NC—just minutes from Research Triangle Park—we provide groundbreaking high-tech solutions within a family-like culture.
Employee Benefits at AAE North America
At AAE North America, we believe in supporting our employees’ well-being, security, and growth. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Competitive Pay – Market-aligned compensation to recognize your skills and contributions.
Health Coverage – Company-sponsored medical, vision, and dental insurance to keep you and your family healthy.
Life Insurance – Company-provided life insurance for additional financial protection.
401(k) Plan – With employee contributions to help you build long-term financial security.
Paid Time Off (PTO) – Flexible paid time off to recharge and take care of personal needs.
Holiday Pay – Paid company holidays throughout the year.
Pushing the Boundaries of Technology
At AAE, we don’t produce standard machines. Instead, we develop advanced modules, systems, and complete automation solutions capable of producing up to 350 million products per year. Our offerings include precision components for revolutionary applications in the medical and semiconductor fields. All designs and manufacturing take place in Raleigh, NC, USA, or at our headquarters in the Netherlands, and we deliver our solutions worldwide. This means you'll have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology that is constantly evolving.
Our success stems from the drive, creativity, and pride of our team. At AAE, you’re not just an employee; you’re part of something great!
Respect for all people:
AAE North America is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to and in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on , color, sex, , , , , genetic information, , or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. AAE North America makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.
Please Note:
To 3rd Party Search Firms/Employment Agencies: Please do not call or email any AAE North America employee about current or future job openings. All resumes submitted by search firms or employment agencies to any employee at AAE North America via email, telephone, social media, or other means will be deemed to be the sole property of AAE North America unless the firm submitting the resume has previously entered into a written agreement with AAE North America regarding recruitment services and has been approved by Human Resources to work on an open position. AAE North America will not pay any or remuneration concerning candidates without complying with this requirement.