Automation Machine Design Engineer

Graco manufactures and markets premium equipment to move, measure, control, dispense and spray a wide variety of fluid and powder materials. What does that mean? Well, we pump peanut butter into your jar, and the oil in your car. We glue the soles of your shoes, the glass in your windows and the screen on your phone. We spray the finish on your vehicle, coatings on your pills, the paint on your house and texture on your walls. Graco is part of your daily life.

As an Automation Machine Design Engineer, you will take on more responsibility in the design process, working independently on moderate to complex projects. You will apply engineering principles to design mechanical systems, components, and machines, ensuring they meet performance, safety, and reliability standards.

What You Will Do at Graco

Engineering Support

• Independently design and model mechanical systems and components using Creo CAD software.
• Perform advanced engineering calculations and simulations (e.g., FEA, CFD).
• Select appropriate materials, components, and manufacturing processes for designs.
• Develop designs with a strong focus on manufacturability, ensuring they are optimized for efficient production, cost-effectiveness, and ease of assembly.
• Design for automation – fixturing, hydraulic/pneumatic/servo presses, servo motors.
• Fluid and pneumatic test bench design.
• Conduct prototype testing, evaluate results, and make design improvements as necessary.
• Prepare technical documentation, including design specifications, test reports, and assembly instructions.
• Demonstrated basic understanding of all pertinent OSHA safety regulations, as well as standards including, but not limited to, ANSI, ISO, RIA, IEC, NFPA, and NEC.

Continuous Improvement and Project Management

• Lead design reviews and collaborate with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing, quality, and project management.
• React to changing priorities for purposes of scheduling, delivery, project timeline, budget, and scope.
• Constantly look for continuous improvement opportunities and drive their implementation.

What You Will Bring to Graco

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in machine design or a related engineering field.
• Basic understanding of mechanical engineering principles
• Proficiency in advanced CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo)
• Experience with engineering analysis tools (FEA, CFD)
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines

Accelerators

• Global industrial manufacturing experience and knowledge.
• MBA or Master’s degree preferred

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent and unrestricted basis. This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship now or in the future (e.g., H-1B, TN, E-3, O-1, L-1, or employment-based permanent residence sponsorship). Candidates working under temporary employment authorization, including F-1 OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, or similar programs, are not eligible for this position. 

At Graco, you truly make a difference. Your unique talents contribute to our organizational growth and future. Not only do you make a difference, but Graco’s culture empowers employees to create their own career path. Whether you choose to advance within your current department or explore new opportunities in different divisions, you have the ability to build your future. Our managers are here to provide support and guidance as you continue to grow within your career.

Graco has excellent opportunities available to individuals who want to be part of a fast-moving, growing company that is committed to quality, innovation and solving fluid handling problems for our customers. Graco is proud to be named a Best Place to Work by Fortune Magazine in 2016, 2018, 2019, 2021 & 2022. Graco offers attractive compensation, benefits and career development opportunities. Graco’s comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, stock purchase plan, 401(k), tuition reimbursement and more.

Our company uses E-Verify to confirm the employment and eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify.

The base pay range for this position is listed below, exclusive of fringe benefits or other compensation.  If you are hired, your final base hourly rate will be determined based on factors such as geographic location, skills, competencies, education, and/or experience.  In addition to those factors, we will also consider internal equity of our current employees.  Please keep in mind that the range provided is the full base salary range for the role.  Hiring at or near the maximum of the range would not be typical to allow for future and continued salary growth.

$67,500.00 - $118,100.00