Associate Designer Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Pay: $28 - $35 per hour, based on experience.

The Role

The Designer 2 – Skids is responsible for designing and developing custom skidded process equipment from concept through fabrication. This role creates detailed 3D models, fabrication drawings, bills of materials, and manufacturing documentation for complex skid assemblies that integrate structural, mechanical, piping, instrumentation, and electrical components. Working closely with engineering, project management, manufacturing, and customers, the Designer 2 ensures designs are accurate, manufacturable, compliant with industry standards, and delivered on schedule.

This position is ideal for an experienced mechanical designer who enjoys solving complex technical challenges, managing multiple projects simultaneously, and collaborating across disciplines to deliver high-quality engineered solutions. In addition to leading moderate to complex design projects, the Designer 2 serves as a technical resource for junior designers and contributes to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance design quality, manufacturing efficiency, and team performance.

About CSI

CSI provides state-of-the-art stainless-steel process equipment and service for manufacturers in the food, dairy, beverage, pharmaceutical, and personal care industries.

We are a growing company built on teamwork, continuous learning, and exceptional customer service. Our employees are our greatest resource, and we invest in their development through training, collaboration, and opportunities to grow.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Design and develop detailed 3D models, fabrication drawings, and complete documentation for custom skidded equipment, including structural frames, piping, instrumentation, and integrated systems.
• Independently manage multiple skid design projects from concept through fabrication release, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and to quality standards.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, manufacturing teams, and customers to resolve technical challenges and deliver practical, manufacturable design solutions.
• Apply advanced knowledge of fabrication methods, mechanical systems, electrical and instrumentation integration, and applicable industry codes to optimize safety, functionality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Maintain accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs), engineering documentation, drawing revisions, and design records to support production and quality requirements.
• Support cross-functional design initiatives by collaborating with other product groups, sharing technical expertise, and contributing to standardized design practices and continuous improvement efforts.
• Mentor and support Designer 1 team members by reviewing work, sharing best practices, and contributing to onboarding and technical development.
• Continuously improve design quality, manufacturing efficiency, and technical knowledge by identifying process improvements, staying current with industry standards, and supporting a culture of safety,

Education/Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Associate degree or technical diploma in Mechanical Design, Drafting & Design, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred; bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology or a related discipline is a plus.
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience using Autodesk Inventor for mechanical design and 3D modeling.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience using Autodesk Vault Professional for document management and revision control.
• Experience designing custom mechanical equipment, skidded systems, or fabricated assemblies, including piping, instrumentation, and integrated systems.
• Strong proficiency creating 3D models, interpreting P&IDs, developing Bills of Materials (BOMs), and managing engineering documentation and revisions.
• Working knowledge of fabrication methods, weld requirements, mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation integration, and applicable industry codes and safety standards.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with AutoCAD and Epicor (or other ERP systems) is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, solve complex design challenges, collaborate across cross-functional teams, and mentor less experienced designers.

Why CSI

• Competitive compensation: $28-$35 per hour.
• Opportunity to work on specialized stainless-steel process systems across multiple industries
• Hands-on role with direct impact on quality, safety, and customer satisfaction
• Collaborative team environment focused on continuous improvement
• Career growth opportunities within installation, operations, and leadership teams
• Company culture centered on taking care of employees and customers

Benefits & Perks

CSI offers a competitive benefits package including:

• Health and wellness benefits
• Paid time off
• Retirement planning options
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education support
• Opportunities for internal career advancement
• Company lunches, team events, and community volunteer opportunities

Work Environment / Physical Requirements

This role is primarily office-based, Monday-Friday, with limited travel. It requires extended computer use, effective communication, and occasional movement within industrial environments. Light physical activity, including standing, bending, and lifting up to 20 pounds, may be required.

Equal Opportunity Employer

CSI is committed to equal opportunity employment. We select candidates based on their ability to perform the work in a competent and professional manner and do not discriminate based on age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or disability.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. CSI participates in E-Verify.