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Machine Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Machine Designer The Machine Designer independently executes complex mechanical designs for custom automated assembly equipment, production machinery, and industrial automation systems. This role ...

Machine Designer The Machine Designer independently executes complex mechanical designs for custom automated assembly equipment, production machinery, and industrial automation systems. This role ...

Designer

Mason, MI · On-site

Designer (Machine Design & Automation)Build Better Machines. Solve Real Problems. Make an Impact. Are you the kind of person who looks at a piece of equipment and immediately starts thinking about ...

Designer

Mason, MI · On-site

Designer (Machine Design & Automation) Build Better Machines. Solve Real Problems. Make an Impact. Are you the kind of person who looks at a piece of equipment and immediately starts thinking about ...

Designer

Mason, MI · On-site

Designer (Machine Design & Automation) Build Better Machines. Solve Real Problems. Make an Impact. Are you the kind of person who looks at a piece of equipment and immediately starts thinking about ...

Machine Design Engineer

Holland, MI · 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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Machine Designer information

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$58K

$83.2K

$130.5K

How much do machine designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine designer 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 does a machine designer do?

A machine designer is responsible for creating and developing mechanical systems, machines, or equipment based on specific requirements. They use engineering principles and computer-aided design (CAD) software to design prototypes, analyze performance, and ensure functionality and safety. Machine designers often collaborate with engineers, manufacturers, and clients to refine designs, address technical challenges, and oversee the production process. Their work is essential in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and robotics.

What does a machine designer do?

A machine designer works to research, build, and maintain machines for a company. As a machine designer, your responsibilities are to use techniques and information gathered from the client to develop and design a machine that matches specifications. You collaborate with the mechanical assembler, electrical designer, and other team members to allow for efficient development. Your duties include drafting and drawing designs, adding details, creating lists of materials needed, and communicating directly with clients to ensure their satisfaction with the machinery. You also handle testing and troubleshooting and work to improve existing machines.

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 mechanical engineering knowledge, proficiency in drafting, and experience with machine design principles, generally supported by a degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and relevant industry standards is crucial. Creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital to designing reliable, efficient machines that meet client specifications and ensure safe, effective production processes.

What is the difference between Machine Designer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectMachine DesignerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field; certifications like Certified Professional Engineer (PE) are commonRequires a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; PE license often preferred for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, manufacturing plants, and workshops focused on machinery developmentDesign, research, testing labs, and manufacturing settings across various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily in manufacturing, machinery design, and industrial equipment sectorsBroader application across automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing industries

While both roles involve mechanical principles, a Machine Designer focuses specifically on creating detailed machinery designs, whereas a Mechanical Engineer has a broader scope including analysis, testing, and system integration. The roles often overlap, but Machine Designers are more specialized in the design process.

What are some common challenges a machine designer faces when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Machine Designers often work closely with engineers, manufacturing teams, and project managers to bring complex machinery from concept to production. A common challenge is ensuring that design specifications align with manufacturing capabilities and cost constraints while meeting performance requirements. Communication and flexibility are key, as feedback from various stakeholders may require iterative design adjustments. Successfully navigating these challenges helps ensure that the final machine design is both innovative and practical.
What states have the most Machine Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Machine Designer jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Designer jobs? For Machine Designer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Machine Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,176 per year, or $40 per hour.

Machine Designer

Actalent

Holland, MI

$45 - $55/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Machine DesignerJob Description

The Machine Designer independently executes complex mechanical designs for custom automated assembly equipment, production machinery, and industrial automation systems. This role develops new concepts from scratch or refines existing concepts to meet customer requirements, while collaborating closely with Project Engineers and cross-functional teams. The designer delivers high-quality technical solutions within fast-paced, deadline-driven project timelines and supports the full design lifecycle from concept through final release and customer demonstration.

Responsibilities
  • Design and develop custom automated assembly equipment, production machinery, and industrial automation systems using Creo Parametric.
  • Create mechanical concepts, layouts, detailed assemblies, and component designs from initial requirements through final release.
  • Apply engineering principles and sound technical judgment to solve complex mechanical design challenges.
  • Develop detailed manufacturing drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), specifications, and design documentation.
  • Support prototype development, equipment testing, validation, troubleshooting, and customer demonstrations.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing, controls engineering, systems integration, suppliers, and project teams to ensure successful project execution.

Essential Skills

  • 3–5 years of experience in machine design, including robots, end-of-arm tooling, press stations, weld cells, automated assembly lines, or similar equipment.
  • Proficiency in CAD software, with strong experience in Creo Parametric highly preferred.
  • Experience running projects from concept through final design.
Work Environment

The role follows a typical schedule of approximately 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with an expected workweek of about 45 hours. Work takes place in a professional engineering environment focused on designing custom automated equipment and industrial machinery, using CAD tools such as Creo Parametric and SolidWorks. Team members collaborate closely with project engineers, manufacturing, controls engineering, and systems integration, and may support prototype development and equipment testing. The environment is fast-paced and project-driven, with opportunities for skills development, including dedicated Creo training during the first 1–2 weeks for those who need it, and the ability to accrue sick leave as part of the overall benefits package.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Holland, MI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $55.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Holland,MI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 20, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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