Mechanical Engineer (Machine Design)

Mechanical Engineer (Machine Design)

Location: Greenville, SC, hybrid Full-time Reports to: Vice President of Engineering

About Daedalus Industrial

At Daedalus Industrial, our aim is to redefine the level of achievable efficiency in all aspects of industrial automation. From project discovery to final equipment implementation, we're pursuing best-in-class services and products. We develop and deliver innovative, robust, and future-proof solutions that prioritize scalability, precision, and client alignment. Our team thrives on solving complex problems with right-sized solutions-bridging engineering expertise with practical implementation.

Position Summary The Mechanical Engineer (Machine Design) owns the development of custom mechanical systems for automation projects, including machine frames, actuators, guarding, and integrated motion assemblies. This role is responsible for translating client requirements into robust, manufacturable, and scalable designs that meet performance and safety standards. With a focus on redefining efficiency through design ownership and scalability, the Mechanical Engineer ensures mechanical systems are optimized for performance while supporting interoperability with controls, motion, and OT systems. Close collaboration with the fabrication shop and build team ensures designs are executed precisely from concept through commissioning.

Key Responsibilities

Design Ownership

• Lead the design of machines, subassemblies, and mechanical components for industrial automation systems.
• Own CAD models, detailed drawings, and associated documentation from concept through release.
• Specify actuators, bearings, gearboxes, guarding, and structural elements for automation equipment.
• Ensure all designs comply with safety, regulatory, and industry standards (ANSI, OSHA, CE, etc.).

Simulation & Performance Validation

• Conduct mechanical simulations and FEA to validate durability, loads, and stress points.
• Perform cycle time and kinematic studies to ensure mechanical layouts meet throughput targets.
• Collaborate with motion engineers to support digital twin development and system-level simulations.
• Refine designs based on simulation and commissioning feedback.

Collaboration & Integration

• Partner with the fabrication shop to ensure designs are manufacturable, cost-effective, and consistent with shop capabilities.
• Work closely with the Project Engineer during fabrication, assembly, and commissioning to resolve issues and validate design intent.
• Collaborate with controls, electrical, and OT engineers to ensure mechanical systems integrate seamlessly with automation platforms.

Fabrication & Support

• Prepare bills of materials, fabrication drawings, and assembly instructions.
• Support fabrication and assembly teams during builds to ensure alignment with design specifications.
• Participate in installation and commissioning to provide mechanical expertise and address issues.

Continuous Improvement

• Develop and maintain a library of standardized machine design elements for reuse across projects.
• Drive design efficiency by improving templates, CAD automation, and modularization.
• Stay current on new mechanical design tools, manufacturing methods, and materials.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in machine design, preferably in custom automation.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Inventor, or equivalent).
• Experience with FEA, kinematic studies, and digital twin simulation tools.
• Strong understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and GD&T.
• Experience with designing fluid power systems (pneumatic, hydraulics, etc.) as well as interpreting and creating the associated schematics.
• Experience with integrating 6-axis and Scara robot manipulators; simulation experience a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to own designs from concept through commissioning.
• Effective collaboration skills with cross-functional engineering teams and fabrication personnel.

Working Conditions

• Office and fabrication shop environments, with occasional client site visits.
• Hands-on involvement during assembly, installation, and commissioning of mechanical systems.
• PPE required in shop and client environments.