Mechanical Engineer - Machine Design

NOV, Inc. • $80K — $110K *
San Antonio, TX 78228In-Person
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (Master's preferred)
  • 5-10+ years in custom equipment design
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with deep technical expertise
  • Experience with FEA, tolerance stack-ups, and material selection
  • Skilled in creating fabrication drawings and BOMs using AutoCAD and SolidWorks
  • Proven ability to solve complex, cross-disciplinary problems
  • Experience with automation and hydraulic system design.

Responsibilities

  • Lead custom machine design projects to enhance equipment performance
  • Collaborate with product engineering on technical specifications
  • Prototype new manufacturing processes and equipment
  • Analyze and optimize industrial processes for efficiency
  • Recommend and implement process and technology improvements
  • Manage collaboration with electrical engineers for automation specifications
  • Oversee the installation and compliance of machines per specifications.

Benefits

  • Opportunity for international travel
  • Onsite position fostering team collaboration
  • Participation in cutting-edge project design and improvements
  • Exposure to a variety of engineering disciplines and technologies
  • Access to vendor interactions and negotiation opportunities.
Full Job Description
Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Fiber Glass Systems Custom Machine Design Engineer III role involves developing custom, one-off equipment such as CNC winders and electrically, hydraulically, or mechanically driven machinery. Responsibilities include the design, fabrication, installation, startup, and troubleshooting of specialized equipment. Proficiency in SolidWorks and AutoCAD is required for producing detailed shop fabrication drawings with accurate engineering tolerances and manufacturability considerations. Experience with automation, PLC systems, hydraulics, and design for manufacturability (DFM)-including motor sizing, gearbox and shaft sizing, and bearing selection-is considered a strong asset.

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Provides project leadership in the engineering of custom machine designs based on technical specifications to optimize equipment performance and manufacturing processes.
  • Collaborate with product design engineering to define technical specifications that best utilize equipment capabilities and manufacturing techniques.
  • Prototype new processes and/or equipment to support product manufacturing.
  • Translate performance requirements into detailed specifications for process, equipment development, or engineering projects.
  • Analyze and optimize industrial processes to maximize equipment efficiency, including layout and equipment placement.
  • Recommend process and equipment improvements, incorporating the latest technologies and best practices.
  • Collaborate with electrical engineers to manage specifications and integration for equipment automation.
  • Work with product design engineering to ensure alignment between product requirements and equipment design specifications.
  • Design test equipment and develop procedures for evaluating product performance and reliability.
  • Collaborate with vendors and suppliers to source components, fabrication, machining, and assembly of equipment.
  • Prepare and approve comprehensive technical packages, including detailed mechanical drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), technical data sheets, design specifications, and calculations for technical tender documentation.
  • Estimate costs and prepare or submit bids for engineering, construction, and installation projects.
  • Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of machines or equipment, ensuring compliance with design and performance specifications.
  • Budget, track, and report project costs and schedules to ensure on-time and within-budget delivery.
  • Contribute to laboratory prototyping and manufacturing activities as required.
  • Investigate equipment failures or operational issues to diagnose root causes and recommend design modifications or corrective actions.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, and computer-generated reports.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with deep technical expertise; performs FEA, tolerance stack-ups, and material selection
  • Solves complex, cross-disciplinary problems and conducts root-cause failure analysis
  • Strong ability to interpret data and provide actionable recommendations
  • Demonstrates strong technical aptitude and the ability to understand and apply complex engineering and design principles
  • Work may require evening and weekend work
  • REQUIRED - Availability for overnight and international travel

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline required (Master's preferred)
  • Position is onsite in San Antonio, TX
  • Experience in composite manufacturing is a plus
  • 5-10+ years of experience in the custom equipment design field
  • Owns full project or machine system design from concept through commissioning
  • Works independently with minimal supervision as project lead
  • Deep technical expertise in FEA, tolerance stack-ups, and material selection
  • Makes design and procurement decisions and signs off on engineering deliverables
  • Reviews and approves others' work while developing standards and best practices
  • Creates detailed fabrication drawings and BOMs with proper tolerances and manufacturability using AutoCAD and SolidWorks, requiring minimal supervision
  • Regularly leads vendor interactions, including specification, cost, and schedule discussions
  • Experience in solving complex, cross-disciplinary problems and conducts root-cause failure analysis
  • Experience working with shop fabrication and machining processes
  • Exposure to and familiarity with hydraulic system design
  • Experience with automation, PLC systems and design for manufacturability (DFM)-including motor sizing, gearbox and shaft sizing, and bearing selection
  • Performs structural and thermal calculations
  • Skilled in tolerance analysis and problem solving
  • Experience with composite, plastic, and sheet metal product design preferred.

BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES
  • Dependability/Attendance- Demonstrates responsibility by proactively communicating schedule changes and ensuring continuity of work.
  • Problem Solving/Judgement- Evaluates engineering challenges using logical, evidence-based reasoning. Considers multiple solutions, weighs risks and trade-offs, and makes sound decisions aligned with technical requirements, safety standards, and project objectives.
  • Active Listening- Incorporates feedback to improve design outcomes and enhance cross-functional collaboration.
  • Critical Thinking- Challenges outdated methods and proposes improvements supported by technical justification.
  • Complex Problem Solving- Handles advanced engineering issues involving multivariable constraints, system interactions, and specialized technical requirements. Breaks complex problems into manageable components and integrates solutions that balance performance, cost, manufacturability, and reliability.
  • Self-manage as project leader- Effectively manages priorities, resources, and timelines while leading technical aspects of projects. Demonstrates ownership of project deliverables, coordinates cross-functional tasks, and ensures alignment without requiring close supervision. Anticipates risks and implements proactive mitigation plans.

TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES
  • Dependability/Attendance- Demonstrates responsibility by proactively communicating schedule changes and ensuring continuity of work.
  • Problem Solving/Judgement- Evaluates engineering challenges using logical, evidence-based reasoning. Considers multiple solutions, weighs risks and trade-offs, and makes sound decisions aligned with technical requirements, safety standards, and project objectives.
  • Active Listening- Incorporates feedback to improve design outcomes and enhance cross-functional collaboration.
  • Critical Thinking- Challenges outdated methods and proposes improvements supported by technical justification.
  • Complex Problem Solving- Handles advanced engineering issues involving multivariable constraints, system interactions, and specialized technical requirements. Breaks complex problems into manageable components and integrates solutions that balance performance, cost, manufacturability, and reliability.
  • Self-manage as project leader- Effectively manages priorities, resources, and timelines while leading technical aspects of projects. Demonstrates ownership of project deliverables, coordinates cross-functional tasks, and ensures alignment without requiring close supervision. Anticipates risks and implements proactive mitigation plans.

About NOV, Inc.

NOV, Inc. Careers

Joining NOV, Inc. presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance a career in the energy sector with a company at the forefront of driving innovation and growth. NOV, Inc. is actively seeking professionals who are ready to engage with a global team that values leadership, diversity, and professional development.

Explore Job Opportunities

NOV, Inc. offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and experiences. Whether it's in engineering, finance, or project management, NOV, Inc. positions itself as a leader in career advancement in the energy industry. Explore open positions that align with professional skills and career interests.

Internship Programs

NOV, Inc. believes in nurturing talent from the ground up. Internship programs at NOV, Inc. provide invaluable industry exposure and hands-on experience, making them a cornerstone of professional development for students and recent graduates eager to make their mark.

Commitment to Employee Growth and Benefits

At NOV, Inc., employee growth is a priority, supported by comprehensive benefits and diversity training programs designed to foster an inclusive workplace. NOV, Inc. invests in its team, ensuring access to the tools and training necessary to excel both professionally and personally.

Cultivating a Culture of Innovation

The culture at NOV, Inc. is built on a foundation of innovation and collaborative problem-solving. Employees are encouraged to bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the table, driving the company’s leadership in the energy sector.

Professional Development and Networking

NOV, Inc. is dedicated to the continuous professional development of its team members through leadership training, networking opportunities, and robust career paths. Employees at NOV, Inc. enjoy a dynamic environment where they can build strong professional networks and enhance their career trajectory.

Hiring Process

The hiring process at NOV, Inc. is designed to be transparent and engaging, starting from the initial job posting to the final interview. Candidates are encouraged to showcase their skills and experiences through a detailed resume and during the interview process, ensuring a fit that is beneficial both for the individual and for NOV, Inc.

Join the NOV, Inc. Team

NOV, Inc. is looking for passionate, curious, and innovative team players. Search for open positions that match skills and interests on the NOV, Inc. careers page. Discover how a position at NOV, Inc. can propel a career to new heights.

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Industry
Energy & Utilities
* Ladders Estimates

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