Mechanical Design Engineer Job Description (Responsibilities, Skills, Duties & Sample Template)

Share

If you’ve ever Googled “mechanical design engineer job description,” you’ve probably seen dozens of results that all look the same: endless bullet points, generic wording, and zero personality. The problem? Those posts don’t actually attract great engineers—they just fill space.

The truth is, a job description isn’t just a formality. It’s your first impression on top talent. And if your post reads like a bland checklist, the very engineers you want—the ones who are curious, detail-oriented, and passionate about solving problems—will simply scroll past and apply somewhere else.

That’s why this guide is different. Instead of another copy-paste template, I’ll walk you through how to create a mechanical design engineer job post that stands out—one that explains the role in plain English, highlights what makes your company unique, and inspires the right candidates to apply.

👉 Before we dive in, I recommend reading our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/  . It explains the bigger picture of why generic posts fail—and how you can write ones that truly convert.

Don’t let bad hires slow you down.

WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free. 

What a Mechanical Design Engineer Actually Does

At its core, a mechanical design engineer turns ideas into real, working products. They take concepts—whether it’s a new consumer gadget, an automotive part, or an industrial machine—and design them in a way that’s functional, safe, cost-effective, and ready for production.

This role isn’t just about sitting behind CAD software all day (though that’s part of it). Mechanical design engineers collaborate with product managers, electrical engineers, and manufacturing teams to make sure every design works in the real world. That means considering durability, materials, ergonomics, compliance standards, and even how easily something can be assembled on the production line.

In simple terms: a mechanical design engineer is both a problem-solver and a builder. They combine creativity with technical skill to design products that don’t just look good on paper—they actually work, last, and improve people’s lives.

And because they’re often the link between concept and manufacturing, communication, teamwork, and attention to detail matter just as much as technical knowledge.

Two Great Mechanical Design Engineer Job Description Templates

We’ll provide two tailored job description options:

1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.

2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.

✅ Job Description Template 1: For Experienced Mechanical Design Engineer

Job Title
 Mechanical Design Engineer — Electric Drivetrains (Helion Dynamics)

Location & Type
 Nairobi, Kenya · Hybrid (3 days on-site)

Schedule
 Full-time

🎥 A quick word from our Head of Engineering
 [Loom/YouTube link]

About Helion Dynamics

Helion Dynamics designs compact electric drivetrains and thermal systems for light commercial EVs serving last-mile delivery across African and emerging markets. Our modular powertrains help manufacturers bring reliable, serviceable vehicles to market faster—reducing total cost of ownership while improving uptime for fleet operators.

What You’ll Do

  • Own the end-to-end mechanical design of drivetrain components (gearboxes, housings, cooling plates, brackets) from concept to production release.
  • Create 3D CAD models and detailed drawings with full GD&T; manage BOMs and revision control.
  • Run first-order calcs and FEA to validate strength, stiffness, fatigue, and thermal performance.
  • Select materials and processes (die casting, extrusion, machining, sheet metal, injection molding) with DFM/DFA in mind.
  • Collaborate with EE/firmware teams on packaging, interfaces, and serviceability.
  • Build/oversee prototypes, test fixtures, and validation plans; iterate from test results.
  • Work with suppliers on tooling, tolerances, and cost/lead-time tradeoffs; support PPAP and production ramp.

What We’re Looking For

  • BSc/BEng in Mechanical Engineering (or related).
  • 4+ years in mechanical product design (automotive, e-mobility, industrial equipment, or similar).
  • Strong CAD (SolidWorks or Creo), drawings, and GD&T fundamentals.
  • Hands-on experience with FEA (linear static/thermal); comfortable with first-principles calcs.
  • Proven DFM/DFA with at least two processes from: die casting, machining, sheet metal, or plastics.
  • Great communicator who enjoys cross-functional work and fast iteration.

Compensation

  • Salary: $95,000–$125,000 (DOE)
  • Equity: 0.05%–0.15%

Perks & Benefits

  • Health, dental, vision · Employer HSA contribution
  • 20 days PTO + 10 company holidays · Flexible Fridays
  • 12 weeks paid parental leave
  • Learning stipend ($1,500/yr) + conference budget
  • Top-tier tools (SolidWorks Premium, Ansys access) + high-spec workstation
  • Relocation assistance (if applicable)

Why This Role Is a Great Fit

You’ll see your designs ship—fast. You’ll own critical hardware that powers real EV fleets, influence manufacturing decisions, and work with a tight, supportive team that values clarity, craft, and momentum.

Our Hiring Process

We review every application and respond within 10 business days. Shortlisted candidates complete a WorkScreen skills evaluation, followed by a technical interview (portfolio/CAD review) and a virtual panel with the product & manufacturing teams.

📥 Apply via WorkScreen: [Your WorkScreen link]

✅ Job Description Template 2: For Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Mechanical Design Engineer

Job Title
 Junior Mechanical Design Engineer — Precision Lab Equipment (Cobalt Instruments)

Location & Type
 Boulder, CO · On-site

Schedule
 Full-time

🎥 A quick word from our Engineering Manager
 [Loom/YouTube link]

About Cobalt Instruments

Cobalt Instruments builds precision environmental testing systems—benchtop thermal chambers, vibration fixtures, and fluid control rigs—used by R&D teams at universities, med-device startups, and advanced manufacturing labs. Our gear helps scientists and engineers validate ideas faster and bring safer products to market.

What You’ll Do

  • Support CAD modeling and detailed drawings for small assemblies and machined parts (with mentorship).
  • Help design jigs/fixtures, cable routing, brackets, and safety guards.
  • Assist with prototyping, lab builds, basic test setups, and documentation.
  • Learn GD&T, tolerance stacks, and DFM fundamentals; update BOMs and ECNs.
  • Collaborate with technicians and senior engineers to solve real customer problems.

What We’re Looking For

  • BSc in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent).
  • Coursework, projects, or internship in mechanical design or prototyping.
  • Familiarity with CAD (SolidWorks/Inventor/Fusion 360).
  • Curiosity, organization, and willingness to learn by doing.
    Nice to Have (Not Required): exposure to machining, sheet metal, 3D printing, or basic FEA.

Compensation

  • Salary: $65,000–$85,000 (DOE)

Perks & Benefits

  • Medical, dental, vision · 401(k) with match
  • 18 days PTO + company holidays
  • Annual learning budget ($1,000) + mentorship program
  • Tooling & prototyping allowance for personal development projects
  • On-site lab access with after-hours build time (with approval)

Why This Role Is a Great Fit

You’ll get hands-on immediately—shipping parts, touching assemblies, and learning from senior engineers who love to teach. If you want to turn classroom fundamentals into real, shipped hardware, this is your launchpad.

Our Hiring Process

We reply to every applicant. Shortlisted candidates complete a WorkScreen practical (CAD + problem-solving), then meet the team for a whiteboard walk-through and a lab tour.

📥 Apply via WorkScreen: [Your WorkScreen link]

Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.

If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.

Why These Mechanical Design Engineer Job Posts Work

1. Clear, Specific Job Titles

Instead of the vague “Mechanical Engineer,” the titles immediately clarify what type of design work the candidate will do and for which industry (e.g., Electric Drivetrains at Helion Dynamics or Precision Lab Equipment at Cobalt Instruments). This instantly filters in the right audience and signals purpose.

2. Personal Touch with Video

Both templates start with a short Loom/YouTube video from a hiring manager or engineering lead. This humanizes the company, lets candidates “meet” the team before applying, and builds trust. Very few job posts do this, which makes these stand out.

3. Warm, Contextual Introductions

The “About Us” sections aren’t boilerplate company blurbs. They tell a mini story:

  • Helion Dynamics highlights its mission to electrify fleets affordably.

  • Cobalt Instruments shows how its tools empower scientists and innovators.
    This framing appeals to mission-driven engineers who want their work to have real-world impact.

4. Responsibilities Written with Impact

Instead of dry “bullet lists,” the responsibilities show why tasks matter.

  • “Own the end-to-end mechanical design” → ownership and accountability.

  • “Help scientists validate ideas faster” → contribution to something bigger.
    This makes the role more motivating than just a list of duties.

5. Transparent Compensation

Each template clearly lists salary ranges (and equity in Helion’s case). This builds trust, sets expectations early, and signals respect for candidates’ time. Many companies hide this, which turns applicants off.

6. Perks & Benefits Separated from Compensation

By breaking perks into their own section (insurance, PTO, stipends, relocation, tooling budgets), the posts make them easier to scan—and highlight that the company cares about work-life balance, growth, and wellness.

7. Why This Role Is a Great Fit

These sections are essentially a pitch to the candidate:

  • At Helion, you’ll see your designs powering real EV fleets.

  • At Cobalt, you’ll get hands-on, learn fast, and grow.
    This reframes the job from “what we want from you” into “what you’ll gain from us,” which is far more compelling to top talent.

8. Respectful Hiring Process

Both companies clearly outline their process, timelines, and the fact that every application is reviewed. This is rare—and it matters. Most engineers complain about applying into a “black hole.” A clear, human process immediately improves candidate experience.

9. Integration of WorkScreen

By using WorkScreen as part of the process, these posts show that applications are evaluated on skills, not just résumés. This signals fairness, modern hiring, and efficiency—which attracts thoughtful, high-quality candidates.

👉 The big takeaway?
 These job posts don’t just check boxes. They connect. They show candidates who the company is, what they’ll work on, why it matters, and how they’ll be treated. That’s what makes great engineers stop scrolling and hit “apply.”

Bad Mechanical Design Engineer Job Post Example (And Why It Fails)

Job Title
 Mechanical Engineer

Company
 Global Manufacturing Inc.

Job Type
 Full-Time

Location
 Remote

Job Summary

Global Manufacturing Inc. is seeking to hire a mechanical engineer to design and analyze mechanical systems and components. The ideal candidate will have strong technical skills and experience in CAD design.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design mechanical parts and assemblies.

  • Prepare technical drawings and documentation.

  • Conduct design reviews and implement feedback.

  • Collaborate with other departments as needed.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.

  • 3+ years of experience in mechanical design.

  • Proficiency in CAD software.

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV and cover letter to careers@globalmfg.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

❌ Why This Job Post Fails

  1. Generic Job Title
    Just saying “Mechanical Engineer” gives no clue about the industry, products, or impact of the role. It could mean anything from HVAC to aerospace.

  2. Cold, Lifeless Introduction
    The “Job Summary” is just filler. No mission, no culture, no reason why this role matters. Candidates have no sense of the company’s purpose.

  3. Responsibilities Are Too Vague
    “Design parts and assemblies” is not inspiring. These bullets could be copied from any engineering textbook. There’s no sense of ownership, outcomes, or real-world application.

  4. Missing Compensation & Perks
    No salary range, no benefits listed. This lack of transparency signals outdated hiring practices and wastes candidates’ time.

  5. No Culture or Values
    Nothing about what the company stands for, how teams work, or why someone would want to join. This is a missed opportunity to connect with mission-driven engineers.

  6. Dismissive Hiring Process
    “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels impersonal. It tells candidates they’re applying into a black hole—exactly the kind of process top engineers avoid.

  7. Bland Call-to-Action
    “Send CV to this email” is transactional and cold. There’s no warmth, no invitation, no excitement. It feels like the company is doing applicants a favor by letting them apply.

👉 The result?
 This job post attracts the wrong people (or no one at all). Serious engineers looking for meaningful work will ignore it. Those who do apply may not be aligned with the company’s goals—leading to wasted time and poor hires.

Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out

Writing a good job post is one thing. Writing a great one—the kind that makes top engineers stop scrolling and click “apply”—requires a few thoughtful extras. Here are some bonus details you can add to take your mechanical design engineer job description to the next level:

1. Add an Important Security & Privacy Notice

Build trust right away by reassuring candidates their information is safe. A simple line at the bottom of your job post can go a long way:

🔒 “We take applicant security seriously. We will never ask for payment, banking details, or sensitive personal information at any stage of the hiring process.”

This makes your company look professional and protects candidates from scams.

2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time

Engineers value balance as much as challenge. If you offer flexible hours, compressed workweeks, or extra PTO—say it. Example:

🌴 “Enjoy 20 PTO days plus 10 company holidays each year, so you can recharge and come back stronger.”

3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities

Mechanical design engineers often care deeply about career development. If you provide mentorship, training budgets, or conference opportunities—make it visible:

📚 “We invest in growth: every engineer gets $1,500 annually for training, certifications, or conferences.”

4. Include a Video Message from the Hiring Manager or Team Lead

This single element can set your job post apart. A short Loom or YouTube video where the engineering manager explains what the team is working on adds authenticity and warmth. Candidates get to see the people behind the posting—which builds connection.

Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4

5. Showcase Employee Testimonials

Nothing beats hearing from people already in the role. Add a short quote or a link to Glassdoor/LinkedIn posts:

💬 “Working here has been the best growth experience of my career. I went from junior to leading designs on production systems in just 2 years.” – Current Mechanical Engineer

6. Use Visual Elements to Break Monotony

Job posts full of text blur together. Use ✅ checkmarks, 🎥 video icons, or 📌 highlights to make the post easy to skim. Engineers are detail-oriented, but they also appreciate clarity and structure.

👉 Adding these touches shows candidates that you care about their experience before they’ve even applied—which is exactly what makes your post stand out in a sea of boring, copy-paste job descriptions.

Should You Use AI to Write a Mechanical Design Engineer Job Description?

Lately, many hiring teams are turning to AI tools—and even some ATS platforms—to auto-generate job descriptions. At first glance, this seems like a time-saver. But here’s the truth: relying on AI alone is a shortcut that usually backfires.

❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone

If you just type “Write me a mechanical design engineer job description” into an AI tool, here’s what you’ll get:

  • Generic, copy-paste text that looks like a thousand other posts.

  • Overly formal or outdated language that doesn’t connect with candidates.

  • A post that says what the job is but not why it matters—missing your company’s unique voice.

  • A weaker employer brand. Remember: your job post is often the first impression candidates get.

The result? You attract fewer serious applicants and risk turning away the best engineers who want to work somewhere inspiring.

✅ The Right Way to Use AI

AI can still be a powerful ally—if you guide it. Think of it as an editor, not an author. To get a strong draft, you need to feed it real inputs:

Provide AI with details like:

  • What your company actually does (mission + impact).

  • The scope of the role and unique projects the engineer will work on.

  • The tone you want (friendly, mission-driven, straightforward).

  • Your perks, benefits, and salary range.

  • Notes on your culture and values.

Then give AI a structured prompt, like this:

💡 “Help me write a job post for our company, Helion Dynamics. We’re hiring a Mechanical Design Engineer to design electric drivetrain components for EVs. Our culture is fast-paced, collaborative, and mission-driven, and we want to attract engineers who are curious, detail-oriented, and passionate about sustainability. We offer a salary of $95K–$125K, equity options, and benefits like 20 PTO days and a learning stipend. Here are my notes and bullet points: [paste notes]. Draft a job post in a warm, human tone similar to the example attached.”

🎯 Takeaway

AI is best used to polish and format your job description—not to invent it from scratch. You bring the context, voice, and authenticity. AI helps you tighten the writing, smooth the tone, and organize the structure.

That way, your job post feels human, mission-driven, and specific to your company—while still being quick to create.

Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.

WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.

Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?

We get it—sometimes you don’t have hours to craft the perfect post. You just need something fast that you can copy, paste, and tweak for your company.

That’s what these templates are for.

✏️ Important Reminder:
 Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
 This is a foundation, not a final draft.
 Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.

In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.

Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.

  • Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
  • Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.

✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Template

Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer – Build Next-Gen [Product/Industry] at [Company Name]
 💼 Location: Remote (HQ: [City, State])
 🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
 💰 Salary Range: [$X,000 – $Y,000]/year

🎥 Meet the Team (1–2 min)
 [Insert Loom/YouTube link]

About [Company Name]
 [Company Name] designs [brief what you build] for [who uses it / industry]. Our mission is [mission in one line], and we care about building reliable, cost-effective, and scalable products that make a real impact for [customers/end users].

What You’ll Do

  • Own mechanical design of [key components/assemblies] from concept to production.

  • Create 3D CAD + detailed drawings with GD&T; maintain BOMs/revisions.

  • Validate designs (first-principles calcs, FEA, prototyping, testing).

  • Select materials and processes (e.g., machining, casting, sheet metal, plastics) with DFM/DFA.

  • Partner with [cross-functional teams] to ship robust, serviceable designs.

What We’re Looking For

  • Degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related).

  • Proficiency in [CAD tool: SolidWorks/Creo/CATIA/Fusion].

  • Experience with [two+ manufacturing processes] and GD&T fundamentals.

  • Strong problem-solving, documentation, and communication skills.

Compensation

  • Salary: [$X,000 – $Y,000]/year

  • Equity/Bonus (if applicable): [details]

Perks & Benefits

  • Health, dental, vision + [retirement/401(k) match]

  • [#] PTO days + [#] company holidays; flex time/remote stipend

  • Learning budget: [$Z/year] for courses, certifications, conferences

  • [Relocation assistance / Equipment budget / Wellness stipend]

Why This Role Is a Great Fit
 You’ll ship real hardware fast, own meaningful designs, and collaborate with a supportive team that values clarity, iteration, and craftsmanship. If you enjoy turning ideas into reliable products used by [end users/customers], you’ll thrive here.

Our Hiring Process
 We review every application and reply within [X] business days. Shortlisted candidates complete a WorkScreen skills evaluation (skills > résumés), followed by [#] interviews with engineering and product.

📥 Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]

✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements”

Job Title: Junior Mechanical Design Engineer – Learn, Build & Grow at [Company Name]
 💼 Location: Remote (HQ: [City, State])
 🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
 💰 Salary Range: [$X,000 – $Y,000]/year

Job Brief
 [Company Name] builds [brief product/industry description] used by [customer type]. We’re hiring a Junior Mechanical Design Engineer to support CAD, prototyping, and testing while learning from senior engineers and contributing to production-bound designs.

Responsibilities

  • Model parts/assemblies in CAD and prepare production-ready drawings.

  • Assist with prototyping, test setups, fixtures, and documentation.

  • Update BOMs/ECNs; collaborate with [teams] to resolve design issues.

  • Learn GD&T, tolerance stacks, DFM/DFA, and basic FEA with mentorship.

Requirements

  • BSc in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent).

  • Familiarity with [CAD tool]; strong attention to detail.

  • Curiosity, organization, and willingness to learn by doing.
    Nice to Have (Not Required): exposure to machining, sheet metal, 3D printing, or FEA.

Compensation

  • Salary: [$X,000 – $Y,000]/year

  • Bonus (if applicable): [details]

Perks & Benefits

  • Health, dental, vision + [retirement/401(k) match]

  • [#] PTO days + company holidays

  • Learning budget: [$Z/year] + formal mentorship program

  • [Equipment stipend / Lab access / After-hours prototyping policy]

Hiring Process
 We respond to every applicant. Shortlisted candidates complete a WorkScreen practical (CAD + problem solving), followed by [virtual/on-site] interviews with engineering.

📥 Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]

Next Step: Let WorkScreen Handle Candidate Evaluation

Writing a great job description is only half the battle. Once your post attracts applications, you still need to quickly identify the right people without drowning in résumés. That’s where WorkScreen comes in.

With WorkScreen, you can:

Spot your top candidates instantly
 

WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.

Run one-click skill tests
 

With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.

Filter out low-effort applicants

WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.

Save time and hire smarter
 

Instead of juggling spreadsheets, emails, and endless resumes, you’ll have everything in one streamlined dashboard—designed for speed, fairness, and better hiring outcomes.

👉 Ready to go from great job post to great hire?

today, create your role, and let WorkScreen handle the heavy lifting.

Mechanical Design Engineer Job Description - FAQs

A strong mechanical design engineer blends technical expertise with problem-solving and communication. Look for:

  • CAD proficiency (SolidWorks, Creo, CATIA, Inventor, etc.).
  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes (machining, casting, sheet metal, plastics, 3D printing).
  • Analytical ability (tolerance analysis, FEA, material selection).
  • Attention to detail in technical drawings and documentation.
  • Collaboration skills to work with electrical engineers, manufacturing teams, and product managers.
  • Creativity and curiosity to design solutions that are both practical and innovative.
  • Salaries vary by location, industry, and experience. On average:

    • Entry-level mechanical design engineers earn between $60,000 – $75,000/year.
    • Mid-level engineers (3–5 years of experience) earn between $80,000 – $100,000/year.
    • Senior-level engineers with specialized skills can earn $110,000 – $135,000+/year.

    Engineers in high-demand industries like aerospace, EVs, and medical devices often command salaries at the higher end of the scale.

  • Mechanical engineers often work broadly across analysis, maintenance, or project management.
  • Mechanical design engineers specialize in creating, modeling, and validating products and components, ensuring they’re functional, manufacturable, and cost-effective.

In short: design engineers focus more on the creative and technical design side of engineering.

  • Not necessarily. While coding isn’t a core requirement, having some knowledge of scripting

    (Python, MATLAB) or automation tools can be an advantage—especially for tasks like simulation, CAD automation, or working with cross-disciplinary teams.

The average HR Advisor salary varies by region, company size, and experience. In the U.S., typical ranges are $55,000–$75,000/year. In the UK, it’s usually £28,000–£40,000/year. Entry-level roles pay less, while senior or specialist HR Advisors can earn significantly more.

Make Your Next Great Hire With WorkScreen

Easily streamline your hiring process with AI-powered applicant scoring, automated skill testing, and a credit-based system that ensures you only pay for quality applicants. Perfect for teams serious about hiring top talent.

Author’s Details

Mike K.

Mike is an expert in hiring with a passion for building high-performing teams that deliver results. He specializes in streamlining recruitment processes, making it easy for businesses to identify and secure top talent. Dedicated to innovation and efficiency, Mike leverages his expertise to empower organizations to hire with confidence and drive sustainable growth.

Hire Easy. Hire Right. Hire Fast.

Stop wasting time on unqualified candidates. WorkScreen.io streamlines your hiring process, helping you identify top talent quickly and confidently. With automated evaluations , applicant rankings and 1-click skill tests, you’ll save time, avoid bad hires, and build a team that delivers results.

Share