Job Description

Mechanical Design Engineer – Custom Automation Equipment
Koch Finishing Systems | Caledonia, MI (Grand Rapids Area) | Full-Time
Koch Finishing Systems is seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer to join our engineering team near Grand Rapids, Michigan. We design and build custom automated finishing systems used for cleaning, stripping, electroplating, coating, and conversion coating across a wide range of industries. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys solving complex, real-world automation challenges and seeing designs come to life on the shop floor.
Compensation & Benefits
• Salary range: $85,000–$115,000 per year, based on experience and qualifications
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Occasional travel for customer visits, installation, and commissioning support
Key Responsibilities
• Design and engineer custom automated machinery (capital equipment) to meet customer specifications and quality standards
• Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and production drawings using CAD software (SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, or similar)
• Collaborate with controls engineers, project managers, and fabrication teams to deliver integrated automated systems
• Manage mechanical design from concept through fabrication, installation, and commissioning
• Troubleshoot and resolve design issues during fabrication and commissioning
• Evaluate customer requirements, budgets, and timelines to develop effective machine design solutions
• Participate in customer-facing concept and design reviews
• Support project scheduling and execution with the Project Management team
Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• Minimum 5 years of experience in mechanical design for custom automated machinery, capital equipment, or special machine design
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, or similar); PLM/PDM experience a plus
• Strong working knowledge of mechanical systems, including pneumatics, hydraulics, servo/precision motion, and sheet metal or weldment design
• Experience with GD&T and detailed mechanical drawings (DFM/DFA)
• Understanding of manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, and assembly
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently or within a team
Why Koch Finishing Systems
You will be part of a team that delivers highly engineered, custom automation solutions used by manufacturers worldwide, with the opportunity to see your designs through from concept to installation. We're guided by our core values of Integrity, Respect for People, Customer Focus, Continuous Improvement, and Community Involvement.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Including disability/veteran