Mechanical Design Engineer

Colanar, an Addtronics company, specializes in advanced liquid filling systems and automated handling systems for the Life Sciences industries, including Pharma and Biotech applications, Contract Manufacturing, and Compound Pharmacies. We service a global customer base. 

We are dedicated to providing new and innovative solutions to our customers in the Life Science industries, both in our product offerings as well as our consulting and engineering services. Our continued focus on customer needs and our ability to react swiftly and cost-efficiently, while remaining customer oriented, ensures a successful relationship with our customers. 

Sponsorship not Provided

No Relocation Provided 

Position Summary: 

Colanar is seeking a hands-on, detail-oriented Mechanical Design Engineer to support the design, development, and build of automated pharmaceutical filling and packaging equipment. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys both design work and practical, on-the-floor involvement with machine assembly, testing, and troubleshooting.

The ideal candidate is not just a CAD designer, but a builder and problem solver who can work across multiple projects, adapt to shifting priorities, and contribute directly during fabrication, assembly, and Factory Acceptance Testing (FATs). This role offers strong growth potential into either a technical specialist path or a leadership/management track. 

 
Essential Functions and Responsibilities: 

• Design 3D models, assemblies, and detailed manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks CAD software  

• Develop and update change parts, subassemblies, and machine components for automation systems  

• Support full machine design lifecycle from concept through build, test, and release  

• Collaborate with electrical engineering, controls, project management, and manufacturing teams  

• Participate in hands-on assembly, machine builds, and troubleshooting activities on the floor  

• Support Factory Acceptance Testing (FATs) and customer-facing equipment demonstrations  

• Work with vendors to select components, manage design constraints, and resolve manufacturing challenges  

• Prepare and maintain engineering documentation including BOMs, part lists, and technical drawings  

• Ensure designs comply with cGMP, FDA, ISO, and internal quality standards  

• Participate in design reviews and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives  

• Assist in prioritizing and managing multiple engineering projects simultaneously  

• Provide practical engineering input based on manufacturability and real-world application  

• Maintain accuracy and revision control using SolidWorks PDM or similar systems 

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities,  

duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Duties,  

responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

Qualifications Desired: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (Biomedical Engineering acceptable)  

• 2–3 years of experience preferred (internship or co-op experience considered)  

• Proficiency in SolidWorks and CAD design tools required  

• Strong understanding of mechanical systems, materials, and manufacturing processes  

• Familiarity with GD&T and engineering drawing standards  

• Basic understanding of automation systems, machine design, or robotics preferred  

• Hands-on mindset with willingness to work directly on equipment and assemblies  

• Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and mechanical intuition  

• Ability to manage multiple projects and shifting priorities  

• Strong communication and collaboration skills  

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced engineering and manufacturing environment 

Nonessential Skills and Experience: 

• Experience with SolidWorks PDM or other PLM systems  

• Exposure to pharmaceutical, biotech, or regulated manufacturing environments  

• Familiarity with controls systems (not required but helpful)  

• Prior experience with machine building, automation, or OEM equipment  

• Experience supporting FATs or customer-facing engineering activities  

• Exposure to continuous improvement or lean manufacturing principles 

Physical demands and work environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

• Physical demands:  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects; reach with hands and arms; lift and carry items up to 50 pounds; climb stairs; balance; stoop and/or kneel.  

• Work Environment:  This position primarily operates within a controlled cleanroom and light manufacturing environment supporting Life Sciences and pharmaceutical-related products. Employees are required to follow strict gowning, cleanliness, contamination-control, and documentation procedures to maintain compliance and product integrity. Work may involve exposure to cleaning agents and production materials. Noise levels may range from low to moderate depending on production activity. Safe work practices and adherence to OSHA regulations, company safety policies, cleanroom standards, and customer-specific requirements are expected at all times. 

Position Classification  

This is a full-time, exempt salaried position. Depending on the needs of the business, the ability to work more than 40 hours/week and/or weekends may be required. Overtime will not be paid for hours worked over 40 hours/week.