Freelance Mechanical Reliability Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY

At Re:Build, our mission is to ensure the next generation of important products are made, at scale, in America. We are laying the foundation for a better future for our customers, employees, and communities by revitalizing America's manufacturing base and creating meaningful jobs across the country, including in historically deindustrialized regions. 
We operate an advanced, end-to-end manufacturing platform that partners with industrial companies and innovators to take products from first concept to full-scale production in critical verticals including aerospace and defense, electrification, medical, energy and environment, and robotics and automation. 
The way we operate is as important as the work we do. It's guided by The Re:Build Way, 16 principles that shape how we collaborate with each other, partner with our customers and vendors, and contribute to the communities where we operate. (link to The Re:Build Way principles)

At Re:Build Optimation, we specialize in delivering custom-engineered process equipment and automated systems to clients across the globe. With nearly 40 years of experience in complex chemical process systems, we have built a reputation for precision, reliability, and innovation. Our multidisciplinary team of 70+ engineers, designers, and programmers, combined with 150,000 square feet of fabrication space and over 70 skilled tradespeople, allows us to provide full turnkey solutions-from initial concept through fabrication, installation, and commissioning.

As part of Re:Build Manufacturing, we leverage the strength of a national industrial powerhouse while maintaining the agility and personalized service of a niche firm. We serve industries ranging from traditional and green energy to chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, glass, and advanced manufacturing, offering tailored solutions that optimize efficiency and performance.

At Re:Build Optimation, we believe in a collaborative approach, working closely with our clients to develop solutions that align with their unique operational goals. Our deep industry expertise and end-to-end capabilities make us the ideal partner for companies seeking innovative automation, process control, and engineered systems.

We're looking for an experienced mechanical engineer who can lead complex machine design projects from concept through completion while balancing technical excellence with business development and team leadership. You bring deep expertise in industrial automation and custom equipment design, with the ability to translate client challenges into innovative, manufacturable solutions. You're comfortable wearing multiple hats-technical specialist, project manager, mentor, and client advisor.

The ideal candidate can manage the big picture of a project-schedule, budget, risk, and client relationship-while diving deep into technical details when needed. You've led multi-disciplinary teams, managed complex work, and built strong client relationships. You're equally energized by solving meaningful design problems, mentoring junior engineers, and meeting with prospective clients to position your team's capabilities.

• Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of major machine design projects or multiple large-scale, multi-disciplinary assignments
• Serve as project manager for multi-disciplinary teams, integrating engineering, scheduling, budgeting, and resource management
• Design custom automation equipment, tooling, robotics, servos, and sensing systems for industrial applications using SolidWorks
• Develop PFDs, P&IDs, and visual documentation to communicate machine processes clearly
• Create engineering design standards, perform complex calculations, and oversee drawing set preparation and administration
• Prepare and manage multi-disciplinary project proposals and cost estimates, identifying and mitigating risks while considering financial factors
• Develop detailed project plans and schedules using project management tools (Microsoft Project, Deltek Vision)
• Engage in business development by meeting with existing and potential clients to find opportunities
• Participate in client meetings and design reviews to ensure technical accuracy, quality, and alignment with expectations
• Lead Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) initiatives, promoting a strong safety culture and identifying potential risks
• Mentor junior engineers and project design teams, fostering collaboration and accountability
• Know the latest on emerging engineering methods and technologies, recommending improvements to processes and designs
• Travel occasionally to client sites, fabrication shops, or project locations (up to 25%)

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field, or equivalent experience  
• 8+ years of machine design experience with industrial automation elements (custom tooling, robotics, servos, sensing equipment)
• 8+ years of hands-on experience using SolidWorks for 3D modeling and design documentation
• Proven ability to lead complex, multi-disciplinary projects from concept through completion
• Advanced knowledge of engineering design principles, project management methodologies, and technical standards
• Ability to develop PFDs, P&IDs, and process documentation
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities
• Excellent communication and client relationship management skills
• Demonstrated ability to mentor staff and foster collaboration
• Strong commitment to safety, including alignment to OSHA regulations and site-specific protocols
• Proficiency in project management software (Microsoft Project, Deltek Vision)

Preferred:

• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license or eligibility
• Proficiency in SolidWorks FEA and CFD tools
• Experience with business development and proposal development

The base salary range for this position is $94,000 - $141,000 per year. This range represents the Company's good faith estimate of the base compensation for this role at the time of posting.  Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity, and geographic location. In addition to base salary, this role may be eligible for annual incentive compensation and/or long-term incentives, subject to Company plans. The Company offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, and other benefits. 

The BIG payoff

We are a company who is going to make a difference in the industries and the communities in which we choose to operate. Every employee of Re:Build will share ownership in the company and will share in the financial rewards of the success we achieve together, at all levels of the company!

We want to work with people that reflect the communities in which we operate

Re:Build Manufacturing is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.

Re:Build is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at accommodations.ta@ReBuildmanufacturing.com or you may call us at 617.909.6275.