Senior Mechanical Designer - Automation Systems

Join Our Team as an Automation Systems Lead Designer at Johnson Electric!

Location: Ancaster, ON (Onsite)
Department: Automation
Salary Range: $80,000 - 95,000 annually
Vacancy Type: Existing Position

As our next Automation Systems Lead Designer, you will play a key role in analyzing, conceptualizing, and designing innovative production automation solutions. You will work on a wide range of projects—from material handling systems to fully automated inspection cells and complete assembly lines—transforming engineering concepts into practical, high‑performance automation solutions.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Employee Well-being: Focus on employee health and well-being with various wellness programs and initiatives.
• Sustainability Commitment: Work for a company committed to sustainability and making a positive impact on the environment.
• Inclusive Workplace: An inclusive and diverse workplace where all employees are valued and respected.
• Technological Leadership: Be part of a company that is a leader in its field, driving technological advancements.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible working hours and policies that support a healthy work-life balance.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Designing mechanical systems for robotics, assembly automation, gauges, error‑proofing, jigs, and fixtures
• Analyzing engineering drawings and specifications to develop automation equipment and processes
• Performing engineering calculations related to strength of materials, forces, speeds, power, pressure, and temperature
• Reviewing designs for compliance with machine safety standards, internal guidelines, and customer requirements
• Collaborating with electrical designers to review I/O requirements and system interfaces
• Reviewing machine operations and sequences with cross‑functional project teams
• Selecting mechanical components and generating purchase requisitions with appropriate delivery timelines
• Producing detailed drawings, sub‑assembly drawings, and bills of materials using SolidWorks
• Reviewing drawings for accuracy, machining methods, finishes, tolerances, and material selection
• Supporting manufacturing during build, debug, and system integration phases
• Communicating with customers, vendors, and internal engineering teams regarding technical requirements and design changes
• Providing time estimates, resource requirements, and progress updates to the Automation Engineering Manager
• Periodically supervising mechanical design activities and delegating tasks within project teams
• Organizing and maintaining project documentation, including drawings, schedules, quotes, and correspondence
• Assisting with proposals and estimating mechanical design labor hours
• Supporting the development of design and departmental standards
• Mentoring Co‑op students and Junior Designers as needed
• Participating in continuous improvement initiatives and adhering to all health and safety requirements

What We’re Looking For

• Degree or diploma in Mechanical Engineering
• Minimum 5 years of experience in special‑purpose equipment and/or automation system design
• Strong proficiency with SolidWorks
• Experience with robotic cells and assembly automation is an asset
• Knowledge of machine shop practices and manufacturing techniques
• Strong ability to concept and develop solutions for complex design requirements from sketches or verbal concepts
• Hands‑on knowledge of pneumatic systems and electrical devices (e.g., switches, load cells, LVDTs)
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• High integrity, accountability, and results‑driven mindset

How to Apply

Apply online at www.johnsonelectric.com — We can’t wait to meet you!

What We Offer

Johnson Electric offers talented people like you the opportunity to grow professionally and personally, surrounded by some of the most dedicated, innovative, and entrepreneurial colleagues you will find anywhere. Of course, we offer competitive pay and benefits, and far more than that, we offer you a culture driven by our values and designed to ensure that our most important asset—our people—can flourish. Johnson Electric welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

In accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, Johnson Electric is an equal opportunity employer who is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier free recruitment and selection process. Applicants should advise Human Resources if they require any type of accommodation during the recruitment process.