Mechanical Designer

Company Description

Kenona Industries is a division of Arrow Automotive and is a leading provider of high-volume precision machining, assembly, and coating services to the North American automotive industry. With a strong presence in the market, Kenona works with top OEM and Tier 1 manufacturers in the production of steering, powertrain, NVH, exhaust assemblies, battery trays, rockers, and other EV components. Kenona's products are found in renowned vehicles from Ford, GM, Chrysler, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Freightliner, and prominent EV manufacturers.

Kenona's success in the automotive industry stems from its exceptional capabilities, responsiveness, transparency, humility, and strong corporate culture. With four facilities located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Kenona is committed to embracing lean thinking and continuously improving as the automotive industry evolves.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design and develop jigs, fixtures, tooling, and mechanical components to support CNC machining operations.
• Create detailed 2D drawings and 3D CAD models using SolidWorks.
• Work closely with Program Managers, Machinists, CNC Programmers, and Launch Team to ensure designs are practical, accurate, and aligned with part dimensional capabilities.
• Conduct tolerance analysis and ensure designs meet GD&T requirements.

Review and interpret engineering specifications, customer drawings, and industry standards.

• Participate in prototype builds, qualification, and dimensional capability validation of new CNC fixture designs.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to improve efficiency, reduce cost, and enhance safety in machining and assembly processes.
• Support troubleshooting and modification of existing tooling, fixtures, and CNC setup issues.
• Collaborate with suppliers and vendors for component sourcing and feasibility reviews.
• Maintain accurate documentation including design files, revision histories, and project records.

EXPERIENCE:

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Design Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of experience in mechanical design within an automotive or manufacturing environment.
• Strong background in CNC machining, tooling, and fixture design.
• Experience with GD&T, material selection, and manufacturing processes (fabrication, machining, assembly).
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, AutoCAD).
• Strong understanding of machining principles and CNC operations.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and quality.
• Experience in machining required (aluminum and cast-iron machining preferred)

PREFERRED:

• Bachelor’s Degree – Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering
• Experience in automotive manufacturing is a plus
• Experience in Quality Systems a plus (e.g., ISO, IATF, etc.)
• Strong problem-solving skills with hands-on troubleshooting ability.
• Ability to interpret dimensional reports and translate to fixture updates as required.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks software.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $95,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person