ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Machine Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Webforge

Associate Machine Design Engineer

Valley, NE · On-site

The Associate Machine Design Engineer supports the design and development of proprietary manufacturing equipment used across global operations. This entry-level role focuses on assisting with ...

Aristotle Metal Works

Be Seen First

Senior Mechanical Engineer - Machine Design

Lawrenceville, GA · On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

ARISTOTLE METAL WORKS Senior Mechanical Engineer - Machine Design Full-Time | On-Site | Experienced Level About the Role The Mechanical Engineering team at Aristotle Metal Works (AMW) handles all ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMachine Design Jobs

Machine Design information

See salary details

$58K

$83.2K

$130.5K

How much do machine design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management or technical expertise.

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 engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

Can you make $200,000 a year as a mechanical engineer?

Mechanical engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, typically through senior roles, specialized skills, or working in high-paying industries such as aerospace or energy. Achieving this salary often requires extensive experience, advanced degrees, and proficiency with CAD software and other engineering tools. Salary levels vary by location, employer, and individual expertise.

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.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Machine design engineers can pursue their careers at any age, as the field values skills, experience, and continuous learning. Many engineers start or transition into the profession later in life, often gaining relevant certifications or degrees to enhance their qualifications.
More about Machine Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Machine Design jobs? Cities with the most Machine Design job openings:
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:
What job categories do people searching Machine Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Design jobs are:
Machine Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Design job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,176 per year, or $40 per hour.
Senior Mechanical Engineer, Machine Design

Senior Mechanical Engineer, Machine Design

Foresite Labs

San Diego, CA • On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Senior Mechanical Engineer, Machine Design
Location: San Diego, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
$130,000 - $140,000
Machine Design
  • Own the design of precision mechanical systems including frames, motion elements, fixtures, and actuation mechanisms
  • Perform tolerance stack-ups and define GD&T for precision assemblies
  • Develop and manage mechanical error budgets (alignment, motion accuracy).
  • Analyze stiffness, deflection, vibration, and fatigue using analytical methods and FEA
  • Design mechanisms that balance performance, cost, manufacturability, and reliability

Thermal Control Hardware
  • Design thermal control systems including heaters, heat exchangers, insulation, cold plates, airflow systems, and structural thermal paths
  • Translate temperature stability and uniformity requirements into hardware specifications
  • Perform thermal modeling and first-principles heat transfer calculations (conduction, convection, radiation)
  • Develop and maintain thermal error budgets (drift, gradients, response time)
  • Collaborate with electrical and firmware engineers on sensor placement and control strategy integration

Fluid Control Hardware Design
  • Design fluid handling assemblies including manifolds, tubing routing, fittings, valves, pumps, and reservoirs
  • Perform flow calculations (pressure drop, flow rate, Reynolds number)
  • Support material selection for chemical compatibility and biocompatibility
  • Integrate fluidic subsystems with thermal and mechanical assemblies
  • Develop leak testing and validation strategies

Analysis & Validation
  • Build structured analytical models to predict mechanical, thermal, and fluidic performance
  • Maintain subsystem-level error budgets (mechanical, thermal stability, flow accuracy)
  • Design and execute validation testing for temperature stability, fluid accuracy, drift, and mechanical robustness
  • Perform structured root cause analysis when performance targets are not met
  • Support DFMEA and risk assessment activities

Prototyping & Integration
  • Assemble and debug mechanical, thermal, and fluidic prototypes
  • Instrument systems for temperature, flow, and mechanical performance measurement
  • Iterate quickly based on test results and integration feedback
  • Support alpha and beta system builds

Manufacturing & Documentation
  • Create detailed mechanical drawings with proper GD&T
  • Participate in DFM/DFA reviews
  • Work with vendors on machined, sheet metal, molded, and fluidic components
  • Support transition from prototype to low-volume production

Qualifications
Required
  • B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • 5-8+ years of experience in precision machine design, thermal systems, and/or fluid handling hardware
  • Strong foundation in tolerance analysis and error budgeting
  • Experience performing thermal and fluid flow calculations
  • Proficiency in 3D CAD (e.g. SolidWorks)
  • Hands-on experience building and testing hardware

Preferred
  • Experience in bioinstrumentation, medical devices, diagnostics, or scientific equipment
  • Experience designing closed-loop temperature-controlled systems
  • Experience with microfluidic or low-volume reagent handling systems
  • Familiarity with FEA tools for structural and thermal analysis
  • Experience selecting materials for chemical compatibility
  • Experience supporting early-stage production builds

What We're Looking For
  • Analytical thinker who quantifies performance limits and tradeoffs
  • Strong mechanical fundamentals with systems-level intuition
  • Comfortable owning subsystems end-to-end
  • Hands-on builder who enjoys working in the lab
  • Clear communicator across electrical, firmware, fluidics, and systems teams

We are an equal opportunity employer. We thrive on diversity and collaboration.

Apply