Associate Designer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Wunderlich-Malec Engineering (WM) is a 100% employee-owned ESOP and one of the largest and most well-established engineering companies in the United States. When you join WM you become part of a company that is:

• 100% employee-owned with 40+ years of industry history
• ENR (Engineering News Record) Top 500 firm
• Rated as a top System Integrator Giant

We have a Junior Mechanical Drafter/ Designer position available in our Oakdale, MN office. This person will be focusing on the layout, modeling, and implementation of mechanical systems for industrial projects.

Position Overview

The Junior Mechanical Drafter/Designer supports our Mechanical Engineering team, focusing on the layout, modeling, and implementation of mechanical systems for industrial projects. This position involves assisting with detailed 2D drawings, 3D models, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver robust solutions that meet client specifications and industry standards. You will contribute to design efforts and develop technical expertise from concept through fabrication and installation.

The Junior Mechanical Drafter/Designer works closely with cross-functional teams—including architects, electrical engineers, project managers, clients, and vendors—to support mechanical designs that enhance system performance, reliability, and manufacturability. By incorporating feedback from design reviews, field data, you will help refine solutions to address challenges in areas like process piping, equipment skids, HVAC, and structural supports. 

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following

• Assist in the layout/design, 3D modeling, and development of mechanical systems for projects spanning multiple domains, such as industrial automation, process plants, and energy systems. Support project planning, scheduling, and risk assessments
• Build knowledge in mechanical modeling tools under the guidance of senior staff
• Assist in interpreting customer requirements, specifications, and site data; support technical interactions with clients on mechanical design aspects
• Create and maintain 3D models, general arrangement drawings, P&IDs, piping isometrics, and construction documents using CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, AutoCAD Plant 3D, Revit, Solidworks or Inventor)
• Coordinate designs with other disciplines (e.g., architectural, electrical, structural, controls) and stakeholders to ensure code-compliant systems
• Conduct field visits for data collection, measurements, and construction observations; size and select mechanical components (e.g., pumps, valves, HVAC units) with guidance
• Support vendor relationships, prepare specifications, and assist in procurement and fabrication processes
• Use feedback from manufacturing, testing, and client reviews to iterate and improve designs; finalize drawings and models for production handover 
• Assist in estimating project hours and contribute to cost estimating and budgeting under supervision
• Demonstrate foundational proficiency in specialized areas such as piping design, HVAC systems, process mechanical skids, or plumbing/utilities
• Other duties as assigned, including participation in continuous improvement initiatives

Knowledge/Skills/Competencies 

• Proficiency in 3D modeling and CAD software, including AutoCAD, AutoCAD Plant 3D, Revit, and SolidWorks or Inventor
• Understanding of mechanical engineering principles, building codes (e.g., ASME, ASHRAE), and industry standards for industrial applications
• Project management skills, with the ability to support budgets, timelines, and team coordination
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities; capable of presenting designs to clients and cross-functional teams
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and familiarity with estimation tools
• Core behaviors: Accountability (takes ownership and acts with urgency), Business Focus (adapts to changes and meets commitments), Project Execution (balances speed and quality), Respect for Others (communicates effectively), and Team Player (shares expertise and builds trust)

Experience 

• 0-5 years of experience in mechanical design and 3D modeling, preferably in industrial engineering or consulting firms
• Exposure to projects involving process mechanical systems, automation skids, or energy infrastructure is a plus

Education 

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Drafting/Design, or a related field; an AAS in Design/Drafting with equivalent experience will be considered
• Educational requirements may vary by project location and client needs

Physical Demands & Working Conditions 

• Duties are primarily performed in a standard office environment, with potential for fieldwork on industrial sites involving uneven terrain, noise, and varying weather conditions
• Requires extended periods of sitting, sustained visual concentration on computer screens, and repetitive manual tasks (e.g., keyboarding, mouse use)
• Occasional domestic travel (up to 15%) for site visits, client meetings, or vendor coordination may be required
• You must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. occasionally and wear appropriate PPE during field activities

*Job Descriptions are not exhaustive lists of all skills, responsibilities, or efforts associated with a job.  They reflect principal job elements essential for performing the job and evaluating performance.

Wunderlich-Malec is proud to offer a comprehensive employee-owner benefit package. Full-time employees may be eligible for the following benefits: Medical • Dental • Vision • Basic and Supplemental Life and AD&D • Long Term Disability • Voluntary Short Term Disability • Healthcare & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts • Health Savings Account • Paid Time Off (PTO) • Paid Holidays • Tuition Reimbursement • Referral Bonus Program • 401(k)/Profit Sharing • 100% ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) • Employee Assistance Program • Will Preparation Resources • Worldwide Travel Assistance 

Salary Range and Benefits Summary 

The expected salary range is $65,000 - $100,000 per year depending on qualifications plus a discretionary bonus and employee stock program. 

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