Mechanical Design Engineer Level 1

Build Real Machines. Not Just CAD Models.

Since 1997, Automated Machine Systems (AMS) has built custom automation equipment for a niche industry that depends on reliability and throughput. We are a stable, execution-focused OEM with a strong shop culture and practical engineering mindset.

AMS designs and builds industrial automation equipment for the pallet manufacturing, recycling, material handling, and timber processing industries.

We are not a corporate R&D lab.
We are hands-on, build-it-for-real OEM.

We are looking for a Mechanical Engineer I who wants to design machines that actually get built on our shop floor and see them run.

This is an entry-level to early-career role designed as a growth path into full machine ownership.

What You’ll Actually Do

• Create detailed 3D models and 2D manufacturing drawings using Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD
• Develop and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs)
• Support senior mechanical engineers in the design and release of automated machinery
• Assist with component sizing and selection (bearings, motors, cylinders, structures, etc.)
• Review drawings for accuracy before they hit the shop floor
• Support engineering changes (ECOs)
• Create layout drawings for internal review and customer presentations
• Work directly with builders and fabricators to solve real-world problems

What This Role Is (And Isn’t)

This role is:

• A hands-on, practical mechanical engineering position
• Heavy in detailing, documentation, and manufacturable design
• A steppingstone to full machine design ownership
• A high-exposure role in a small, fast-moving OEM

This role is not:

• Pure concept design
• Corporate-level R&D
• A siloed desk job

What We’re Looking For

• 0–3 years of mechanical design experience (internships count)
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering (or comparable experience)
• Proficiency in Inventor (preferred) or SolidWorks (considered)
• Ability to produce clean 2D manufacturing drawings
• Strong mechanical aptitude and practical problem-solving ability
• Comfortable working in a production environment
• Detail-oriented and self-motivated
• Valid driver’s license

Bonus points for:

• Experience in machine design, automation, or industrial equipment
• Exposure to fabrication or assembly environments

The Personality That Thrives Here

You might be a good fit if you:

• Prefer practical engineering over theory-only work
• Like interacting with builders and welders
• Want to understand how machines actually go together
• Take pride in clean drawings and accurate BOMs
• Don’t need layers of management to do good work
• Want to grow into full machine ownership over time

Growth Path

This role is intentionally structured as a Mechanical Engineer I position.

Successful candidates can grow into:

• Mechanical Engineer II (own full machine designs)
• Lead Mechanical Engineer (architecture & standards)

We promote based on capability and ownership — not time served.

Compensation & Benefits

• $25.00 – $30.00 per hour (based on experience)
• Health, Dental, & Vision Benefits
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Stable, long-term growth environment
• Direct access to decision-makers
• Exposure to real machine design from day one

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person