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Machine Design Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Experience in machine design and testing. * Knowledge of statistical process control, and experience in designing control systems. * Broad knowledge and experience across multiple CAD tools.

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Mechanical Design Engineer

Tomball, TX · On-site

$80K - $150K/yr

1 Mechanical Design Engineer To be considered for this position, a document/presentation must be ... At Caltex you will get to work on everything from simple cleaning tools, subsea "CNC" machines ...

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$54K

$77.5K

$121.6K

How much do machine design jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine design in Texas is $77,492.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,500.00 and $85,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Machine Design jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Machine Design jobs in Texas are:
Infographic showing various Machine Design job openings in Texas as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,492 per year, or $37.3 per hour.
RESEARCH ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - Mechanical Designer/Engineer for Propulsion System

RESEARCH ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - Mechanical Designer/Engineer for Propulsion System

Southwest Research Institute - Fulltime

San Antonio, TX

$68K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Southwest Research Institute rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 56 rated research


Job description

Who We Are: The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of gas turbine combustion, air-breathing propulsion, industrial heat and power, and liquid propulsion. Our technologies are powering a cleaner future and advancing state-of-the-art propulsion systems for air and space flight. Objectives of this Role: Support the design, analysis, and testing of systems and components used in a variety of propulsion and energy processes.

Typical application areas include: supercritical CO2 oxy-fuel combustion systems, gas turbine combustion systems, and launch vehicle components. Apply principles of machine design, piping/pressure vessel design, process controls and instrumentation, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer to develop test systems and specify components. Many systems operate at extreme pressure and temperature conditions.

Apply knowledge of fabrication methods, assembly, and geometric dimensioning & tolerancing (GD&T) to ensure components are designed in a way that can be manufactured and assembled. Utilize CAD software (Solidworks) to develop mechanical designs and visualize component fitments and assemblies. Communicate ideas, results, and other information to coworkers as well as commercial and government clients.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities: Provide design, analytical, and experimental support to more than one project in a team environment. Typical tasks include research, design, analysis, and simulation development. Use commercial engineering software such as ANSYS Workbench or APDL for design and analysis.

Provide mechanical and machine design support for a variety of applications that include power generation, propulsion, and combustion. As needed, work across the Institute to draw on the experience from thousands of engineers and technicians. Contribute and be responsible for technical development of experimental test programs, including developing/operating a new test rig.

Take responsibility for testing/rig modifications to meet new project objectives. Direct the technical work of other engineers and technicians. Assess the best approach to solve problems and interrogate results for reliability.

Provide troubleshooting support for tests and simulations with a firm understanding of theories and concepts using a first-principles approach. Act as the primary technical lead for mechanical designs and guide technical direction of other engineers for projects/proposal efforts. Be a problem solver that exercises creativity and independent judgement in determining approaches to solve a wide range of technical problems.

Requirements: Requires a Bachelors, Masters or a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related engineering degree. 1 yr experience required with MS degree, 0 yr experience required with PhD in relevant areas. 2-5 years: Mechanical design experience applying tools like FEA to predict component/assembly stresses and evaluate fitness for service.

2-5 years: Design, commissioning, and testing experience with high pressure and/or extreme temperature (cryogenic or combustion) process systems. 2-5 years: Experience with industry standards, such as ASME Pressure Vessel Code, ASME B31 Piping Codes, machine assembly, maintenance, and repair. MS or PhD degrees in engineering are preferred, but not required.

A valid/clear driver's license is required.


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