Mechanical Design Engineer (Hands-on, Manufacturing-Focused)

About the Role

Melfred Borzall is hiring a Mechanical Design Engineer to design and improve tooling for Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD). This is a hands-on engineering role focused on real-world design, manufacturability, testing, and continuous improvement.

Our engineers don’t stay behind a desk. This role works closely with manufacturing, welding, machining, and sales to ensure designs work in the shop and in the field—not just in CAD.

What You’ll Do

• Design new and improved mechanical tools and components for HDD applications
• Modify and improve existing designs based on production and field feedback
• Create and maintain 3D models and drawings (SolidWorks or similar)
• Work directly with manufacturing to ensure designs are efficient and buildable
• Support testing and validation of tooling (in-house and field)
• Participate in problem-solving with production, sales, and customers as needed
• Maintain basic design documentation and revision control
• Support continuous improvement and Lean manufacturing efforts

Required / Preferred Background

• Practical mechanical design experience (3+ years typical)
• Experience with SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment and on the shop floor
• Engineering degree preferred, not required

Helpful (Not Required)

• Experience with heavy equipment, HDD, downhole tools, or similar products
• Familiarity with CNC machining or welding processes
• Experience supporting field testing or customer-driven design changes

What We’re Looking For

• Hands-on, practical design engineer—not desk-only
• Strong problem solver who can balance design intent with manufacturability
• Comfortable collaborating with machinists, welders, and fabricators
• Organized and detail-oriented with drawings and revisions
• Curious, proactive, and willing to learn

Why Melfred Borzall

• Real manufacturing environment: CNC machining, welding, fabrication
• Designs go into production—you see your work get built and used
• Growing company with room to expand responsibility and impact
• Team-oriented culture focused on problem-solving and continuous improvement

Important Notes

• This is a full-time, on-site role in Santa Maria, CA
• This role is best suited for engineers who enjoy being close to manufacturing

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $85,000.00 - $115,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement

Application Question(s):

• How many years of hands-on mechanical design experience do you have?
• This role is full time and on-site in Santa Maria. Are you able to work on-site?
• This role requires time on the shop floor working with machinists, welders, and operators. Are you comfortable in that environment?

Work Location: In person