Autocad 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 Senior 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 Senior Mechanical Designer/Modeler plays a pivotal role in our Mechanical Engineering team, focusing on the design, modeling, and implementation of mechanical systems for complex industrial projects. This position involves creating detailed 2D drawings, 3D models, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver robust solutions that meet client specifications and industry standards. You will lead design efforts and provide technical expertise from concept through fabrication and installation.

The Senior Mechanical Designer/Modeler works closely with cross-functional teams—including electrical designers/engineers, project managers, clients, and vendors—to innovate mechanical designs that enhance system performance, reliability, and manufacturability. By incorporating feedback from design reviews and field data, you will 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

• Lead the design, 2D drawings, 3D modeling, and development of mechanical systems for complex projects spanning multiple domains, such as industrial automation, process plants, and energy systems. Participate in project planning, scheduling, and risk assessments
• Serve as a recognized subject matter expert in mechanical modeling and clash detection
• Interpret customer requirements, specifications, and site data; act as the primary technical contact for clients on mechanical design aspects
• Recommend innovative solutions and develop deployment strategies
• 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, Inventor, Trimble-Sysque)
• 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)
• Manage vendor relationships, prepare specifications, and support procurement and fabrication processes 
• Use feedback from manufacturing, testing, and client reviews to iterate and improve designs; finalize drawings and models for production handover
• Estimate project hours, manage small-scale design tasks independently, and contribute to cost estimating and budgeting
• Demonstrate 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 

• Advanced proficiency in 2D AutoCAD, 3D modeling and CAD software, including AutoCAD Plant 3D, Revit, and Inventor; experience with Trimble-Sysque and simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS) are a plus
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, building codes (e.g., ASME, ASHRAE), and industry standards for industrial applications
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to handle budgets, timelines, and team coordination
• Superior communication and collaboration abilities; adept at 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
• You must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. occasionally and wear appropriate PPE during field activities

Experience 

• 8+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design and 3D modeling, preferably in commercial and industrial engineering or consulting firms
• Proven track record in complex projects involving process mechanical systems, or energy infrastructure

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 $80,000- $110,000 per year depending on qualifications plus a discretionary bonus and employee stock program. 

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