Automation Designer

About Answer Precision Technologies

Answer Precision Technologies (APT) is a rapidly growing automation and equipment manufacturer in Kitchener. We specialize in designing and developing state-of-the-art Assembly Automation Systems, Precision Checking Fixtures, and Mould Tooling. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and precision is at the core of everything we do

The Senior Automation Designer is responsible for the complete mechanical design process of custom automation equipment and tooling. This includes concept development, engineering calculations, detailed CAD modeling, component selection, and BOM creation. This role requires close collaboration with internal teams and customers, project coordination, occasional mentorship, and innovative problem-solving.

Primary Responsibilities

• Automation Design: Lead the design of automation systems and tooling from concept to final release, working closely with Sales and Engineering teams
• CAD & Documentation: Create detailed SolidWorks models and manufacturing-ready drawings, ensuring accuracy, appropriate materials, components, hardness, finishes etc.
• Team Collaboration: Align mechanical design with electrical and manufacturing requirements
• Technical Support: Resolve design-related issues during manufacturing and quality checks
• Project Coordination: Manage timelines, update stakeholders, and handle engineering change orders
• Design Reviews: Lead design reviews, both internally and with customers, to collaborate with stakeholders around designed solutions, manufacturability, compliance with applicable standards, and end user experience
• Engineering Calculations: Perform calculations with respect to strength of materials, speeds, horsepower, temperature, pressure, force etc. as related to machine and tool designs
• Mentorship: Provide technical guidance to junior team members
• Client Support: Travel to client sites as needed; ensure all travel documents are current and valid
• Cost & Metrics: Develop and maintain BOMs and support departmental KPIs

Required Qualifications

• Experience: 7+ years in automation tooling design with a focus on automation systems, including pneumatics, hydraulics, servos, custom mechanisms, sensors, switches, load cells, LVDT's and safety integrations
• Education: Diploma or degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent industry experience
• Technical Skills:
• Certified in SolidWorks, CSWE is a benefit
• Proficient in GD&T
• Strong computer skills, including MS Office
• Experience with AutoCAD or SkyCAD is a plus
• Analytical Ability: Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Communication: Able to convey ideas clearly and collaborate across teams, excellent English language skills, both verbal and written
• Work Approach: Self-directed, organized, and effective in fast-paced environments
• Critical Thinking: Efficient in identifying and solving complex design challenges
• Time Management: Able to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
• Flexibility: Adaptable to evolving project or client needs
• Attention to Detail: Maintains high accuracy in design and documentation
• Follow-Through: Committed to completing projects thoroughly and on time
• Professional Attitude: Energetic, team-oriented, and results-driven

In compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities (AODA) Answer Precision welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities to apply. We will make the necessary accommodations for applicants with disabilities to support all aspects of the recruitment process under AODA.

Answer Precision Technologies is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of - age, sexual orientation, gender, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, disability, skin colour, relationship status or parental status. We base all our employment decisions on merit, job requirements and business needs.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Company events
• Dental care
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Paid time off
• RRSP match
• Vision care

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Kitchener, ON: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Application question(s):

• How many years of Solidworks experience do you have?

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree (preferred)

Experience:

• automation tooling: 7 years (preferred)

Language:

• English (required)

Work Location: In person