Prevalent Group - Recruiters for the Packaging and Industrial Automation industries · 5 hours ago
Mechanical Engineer /Automation Engineer
St Charles, IL
Full-time
Onsite
Mid Level
$130K/yr - $150K/yr
3+ years expPrevalent Group is a leader within the packaging industry, and they are seeking a Mechanical Engineer /Automation Engineer. This position is responsible for the design, development, and optimization of industrial label application systems used in manufacturing, packaging, and logistics environments.
Staffing & Recruiting
Hiring Manager
Robert Preves, SPHR
Responsibilities
Design complete label application systems including applicator heads, conveyors, mounting frames, guarding, and product handling mechanisms
Develop 3D models and detailed fabrication drawings using SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software, ensuring designs meet functional, safety, and manufacturability requirements
Engineer precision mechanisms for label dispensing, including peel plates, tamp pads, air-blow systems, and wipe-on applicators tailored to specific substrate and label combinations
Design pneumatic and servo-driven motion systems for accurate label placement across varying line speeds and product geometries
Create custom fixturing and tooling for unique product shapes, ensuring consistent label registration and adhesion
Apply Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles to optimize designs for ease of fabrication, assembly, and cost-effectiveness, considering available manufacturing processes and standard component availability
Collaborate with electrical and controls engineers to integrate mechanical systems with PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and vision systems
Specify and select sensors, actuators, motors, and drives appropriate for labeling applications, considering speed, accuracy, and environmental factors
Design systems for seamless integration into existing production lines, accounting for spatial constraints, upstream/downstream equipment, and operator access
Develop modular and scalable designs that accommodate multiple label formats, print engines, and application methods
Build and assemble prototype systems, working hands-on in the shop to validate design concepts and identify improvements
Conduct rigorous testing to verify label placement accuracy, adhesion quality, system reliability, and throughput performance
Analyze test data, identify root causes of failures, and implement design modifications to resolve issues
Perform tolerance stack-up analysis and FEA simulations to ensure mechanical integrity and precision
Manage mechanical engineering deliverables within project timelines, coordinating with project managers on milestones and resource requirements
Generate bills of materials (BOMs), coordinate with purchasing on component sourcing, and support production during system builds
Create and maintain technical documentation including assembly procedures, adjustment guides, and maintenance manuals
Participate in design reviews, FMEA sessions, and customer acceptance testing
Provide technical support for field installations, troubleshooting mechanical issues and recommending solutions
Analyze field performance data and customer feedback to drive product improvements and standardization
Research new technologies, materials, and manufacturing methods to enhance system performance and reduce costs
Develop and maintain standard component libraries and design templates to improve engineering efficiency
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
3+ years of experience in mechanical design for automated machinery, packaging equipment, or material handling systems
Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) including sheet metal, weldments, and assembly modeling
Strong understanding of GD&T, mechanical tolerancing, and manufacturing processes (machining, fabrication, welding)
Experience with pneumatic system design including cylinder sizing, valve selection, and circuit layout
Hands-on prototyping and assembly skills with ability to work effectively in a shop environment
Excellent problem-solving abilities and analytical thinking
Preferred
Experience in automated machinery design
Knowledge of advanced manufacturing methods
Company
Prevalent Group - Recruiters for the Packaging and Industrial Automation industries
The Prevalent Group is a permanent placement search firm that recruits high caliber candidates within the packaging industry.
2-10 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageLeadership Team
Robert Preves, SPHR
Managing Partner
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