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Machine Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Machine Design Engineer

Rogers, AR ยท On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Serves as the Plant Machine Design Engineer. Responsible for design of new manufacturing equipment, fixtures, and retrofits for existing equipment. * Proposes plant machine improvement projects.

New

Machine Design Engineer

Kutztown, PA ยท On-site

$38.46 - $48.08/hr

Automated Machine Design Engineer (1st Shift) - Direct Hire **Job Summary:**Local employer seeking Automated Machine Design Engineer to join their team and lead the design of custom automated ...

Machine Design Engineer The Machine Design Engineer designs and develops custom automated equipment, primarily for the automotive industry. This role uses FEA, GD&T, and 3D CAD tools to concept ...

Machine Design Engineer

Carthage, MO ยท On-site

$75 - $100/hr

We, at Leggett & Platt Incorporated, are searching for a Machine Design Engineer (Manufacturing Engineer) within our Manufacturing Engineering team to help support our Automotive business. Did you ...

Machine Design Engineer

Canfield, OH ยท On-site

$43.27 - $62.50/hr

Mechanical Engineer for Industrial Machine Design: Dunaway is looking to hire a highly skilled, mid to senior level industrial Machine Design Engineer with 3D modeling (Solidworks) and FEA skills ...

Machine Design Engineer

Omaha, NE ยท On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

The Machine Design Engineer is responsible for the end-to-end design and implementation of proprietary manufacturing equipment projects to meet global needs, as directed by the management team. This ...

Machine Design Engineer

Valley, NE

$72K - $97K/yr

The Machine Design Engineer is responsible for the end-to-end design and implementation of proprietary manufacturing equipment projects to meet global needs, as directed by the management team. This ...

Sr. Machine Design Engineer

Mosinee, WI ยท On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Senior Machine Design Engineer Location: LaVergne, TN Job Type: Full-Time Schedule: Monday-Friday Pay: $100,000-$110,000 Position Overview M Force Partners is seeking an experienced Senior Machine ...

Machine Design Engineer

Carthage, MO ยท On-site

$75 - $105/hr

We, at Leggett & Platt Incorporated, are searching for a Machine Design Engineer (Manufacturing Engineer) within our Manufacturing Engineering team to help support our Automotive business. Did you ...

Sr. Machine Design Engineer

Mosinee, WI ยท On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Senior Machine Design Engineer Location: LaVergne, TN Job Type: Full-Time Schedule: Monday-Friday Pay: $100,000-$110,000 Position Overview M Force Partners is seeking an experienced Senior Machine ...

Machine Design Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN ยท On-site

$65K - $89K/yr

We are looking for a machine design engineer to perform design on equipment for new facilities. No PE Required. Will be working on a team of other engineers for creation, development and testing of ...

Machine Design Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN ยท On-site

$65K - $89K/yr

We are looking for a machine design engineer to perform design on equipment for new facilities. No PE Required. Will be working on a team of other engineers for creation, development and testing of ...

Machine Design Engineer

Holland, MI ยท On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

This Machine Design Engineer will be responsible for designing and enhancing machinery using SolidWorks software. This role offers exciting projects, flexible hours, career advancement opportunities ...

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Showing results 1-20

Machine Design information

See salary details

$58K

$83.2K

$130.5K

How much do machine design jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine design in the United States is $83,176.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is machine design?

Machine design is the process of creating new machines or improving existing ones to meet specific needs or solve particular problems. It involves applying engineering principles to select materials, determine dimensions, and specify manufacturing methods for machine components. The process includes conceptualization, detailed design, analysis, testing, and documentation. Machine designers often use CAD software and simulation tools to visualize and test their designs before production. Their work is critical in industries ranging from automotive to manufacturing and robotics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Designer, you need strong skills in mechanical engineering, 3D modeling, and design principles, generally supported by a degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Proficiency with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD) and familiarity with manufacturing processes and material selection is essential. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with teams and translating concepts into practical solutions. These skills ensure that machine designs are efficient, manufacturable, and meet both technical specifications and client needs.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in machine design roles, and how can they be overcome?

Professionals in machine design often encounter challenges such as balancing cost constraints with performance requirements, meeting tight project deadlines, and ensuring compliance with safety and industry standards. Effective collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, such as manufacturing, electrical, and quality assurance, is crucial to address these challenges. Staying updated with the latest CAD software, simulation tools, and engineering best practices can also help streamline the design process and improve outcomes.

What is the difference between Machine Design vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectMachine DesignMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field; certifications like Certified Professional Engineer (PE) beneficialBachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering; PE licensure often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing facilities, office settingsDesign, testing labs, manufacturing plants, research facilities
Industry UsageFocuses on creating and improving specific machine components and systemsBroader scope including thermodynamics, materials, and system integration

Machine Design specializes in developing specific machine components and systems, often requiring detailed design skills. Mechanical Engineering covers a wider range of engineering principles, including thermodynamics, materials, and system analysis. While both roles share similar credentials and work environments, Machine Design is more focused on the detailed creation of machines, whereas Mechanical Engineering encompasses a broader engineering scope.

How do you become a machine design engineer?

To become a machine design engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in CAD software, and obtaining professional engineering licensure can enhance career prospects.
More about Machine Design jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Design jobs?

The most popular types of Machine Design jobs are:

What states have the most Machine Design jobs?

States with the most job openings for Machine Design jobs include:

Infographic showing various Machine Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,176 per year, or $40 per hour.

Machine Design Engineer

Opportunity Group, Inc.

Grand Rapids, MI โ€ข On-site

$75K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Opportunity Group is currently recruiting Machine Design Engineers for several direct-hire, permanent positions in the Grand Rapids area, with additional opportunities in Holland, Muskegon, and Kalamazoo.
We work with reputable and growing companies that design and build custom automation, machinery, process equipment, assembly systems, fixtures, and material handling equipment.
Opportunities range from Machine Design Engineer positions through Senior and Lead-level roles.
Compensation ranges from approximately $75,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience and position.
You can also email your resume to greatjobs@opportunitygroup.com

Responsibilities may include:
  • Design and develop custom machinery, automation equipment, process systems, assembly equipment, fixtures, and material handling systems.
  • Develop mechanical concepts and take designs from concept through completion.
  • Create 3D models, assemblies, detailed drawings, and bills of materials.
  • Select and size mechanical components such as motors, gearboxes, bearings, conveyors, pumps, pneumatics, and hydraulics.
  • Work closely with Controls Engineering, manufacturing, assembly, and project management.
  • Review specifications and customer requirements.
  • Provide engineering support during machine build, testing, installation, and start-up.
  • Senior-level opportunities may include leading projects and mentoring other Machine Designers and Detailers.

Qualifications:
  • Experience designing custom machinery, automation equipment, process equipment, material handling systems, or similar industrial equipment.
  • SolidWorks experience preferred, although experience with Inventor, Creo/ProE, AutoCAD, or other 3D CAD software will be considered.
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology preferred, but relevant machine design experience will also be considered.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of an engineering team.
  • Entry-level through Senior/Lead-level candidates will be considered.

Compensation & Benefits:
  • $75,000–$130,000 annually depending on experience and position.
  • Direct-hire, permanent positions.
  • Benefits vary by employer and typically include medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) plans with company matching.
  • Paid vacation and holidays.
  • Performance bonuses available with some employers.
  • Flexible schedules available with some positions.
  • Opportunities for advancement into Lead and Engineering Management roles.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The employers for these positions are not offering employment visa sponsorship.