Vacuum Innovations (VI) is an equipment manufacturer for the precision optical coating industry located in Dansville, NY. We design and manufacture thin film deposition systems and equipment, as well as coated optics produced using our systems. VI is committed to providing its customers high quality products and creating a collaborative and inclusive work environment. We are searching for a qualified Mechanical Designer to join our growing company. Weโre looking for a skilled and self-motivated individual to support VIโs engineering team. VI is a small company, ideal candidates have a range of existing skills and a willingness to learn new ones. This position offers a competitive compensation and benefits package.
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Job Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Mechanical Designer to join our engineering team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing precise mechanical designs, creating detailed CAD documentation, and supporting system integration for innovative projects. Your expertise will help bring complex mechanical concepts to life through advanced modeling, drafting, and analysis, ensuring that all designs meet industry standards and client specifications. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge product development and infrastructure projects in a collaborative environment that values creativity and technical excellence.
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Responsibilitiesย
ยทย ย ย ย ย Translate engineering concepts into actionable, manufacturing-ready technical drawings and 3D models.ย
ยทย ย ย ย ย Focus on practical details of the product development (material selection, dimensioning, tolerance analysis).
ยทย ย ย ย ย Designing parts with fabrication constraints in mind.ย
ยทย ย ย ย ย Documentation โ generating bills of materials, writing operational manuals, maintaining version control throughout engineering change orders.
ยทย ย ย ย ย Analyzing and testing existing projects to identify areas for improvement.
ยทย ย ย ย ย Collaborating with other Engineers, Designers and Project Managers.ย
ยทย ย ย ย ย Ensuring products meet safety regulations.
Required Skills
ยทย ย ย ย ย Proficiency in SolidWorks * * *
ยทย ย ย ย ย Exceptional problem-solving and math skills
ยทย ย ย ย ย Product-focused creative thinking
ยทย ย ย ย ย Excellent written and verbal communication skills
ยทย ย ย ย ย Organization and effective time management skills
ยทย ย ย ย ย Be able to work with a team as well as individually
Preferred Skills
ยทย ย ย ย ย Familiarity with FEA analysis
ยทย ย ย ย ย Knowledge of PDM software for managing CAD files
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โNice to haveโ Skills:
ยทย ย ย ย ย Experience in vacuum systems or PVD equipment
ยทย ย ย ย ย Machining or fabrication experience
Job Qualifications
ยทย ย ย ย ย Associateโs or Bachelorโs degree in Mechanical Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or a closely related field.
ยทย ย ย ย ย 3+ years of mechanical design experience in manufacturing or equipment build environments.
ยทย ย ย ย ย Proficiency in SolidWorks * * *
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Work Environment
ยทย ย ย ย ย Small company
ยทย ย ย ย ย Hands-on shop environment
ยทย ย ย ย ย Full time position (standard Monday โ Friday schedule)