Mechanical Designer

Background AstenJohnson is a world-leading supplier of paper machine clothing, specialty fabrics, and filaments for the worldwide paper industry with a 200-year history as a family-owned business. AstenJohnson also has a growing nonwovens division called AJ Nonwovens, which has been developing and producing premium quality needlepunch textiles since 1952. AstenJohnson’s Central Engineering is located in Kanata and supports all AstenJohnson and AJ Nonwovens sites worldwide, providing a variety of unique projects and design opportunities. Central Engineering is involved in mechanical and electrical machine design, research and development, maintenance, fabrication, machine erection, and commissioning.   General Scope of Responsibilities Work as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team to support the planning, design, fabrication, procurement, assembly, installation, and commissioning of custom equipment. Responsibilities include mechanical design, drawing preparation, project planning, equipment procurement, safety reviews, and assistance with equipment installation, commissioning, and training at AstenJohnson facilities worldwide.   Specific Responsibilities Collaborate with mechanical and electrical team members, vendors, manufacturers, and site stakeholders to develop practical, safe, and robust mechanical solutions for new and existing manufacturing and testing equipment. Review existing equipment and site conditions, take field measurements, document equipment interfaces, and prepare layouts or as-built information as required. Assist in developing project cost estimates and schedules. Design custom mechanical components for use in specialized equipment. Create detailed 3D CAD models, equipment layouts, assemblies, and bills of materials. Select appropriate materials and commercial mechanical components based on application requirements, performance, environment, manufacturability, availability, and cost. Perform and document mechanical calculations and analyses to verify equipment designs, including free-body diagrams, statics, dynamics, and component sizing. Coordinate electromechanical interfaces and component integration with the electrical team to support assembly and commissioning. Apply relevant engineering standards, internal design practices, and machine safety requirements to equipment designs. Participate in design reviews and equipment risk assessments to incorporate safety, reliability, maintainability, ergonomics, manufacturability, and cost into equipment designs. Prepare complete engineering drawing packages for fabrication and assembly, including appropriate dimensions and tolerances, assembly instructions, and welding requirements. Maintain accurate models, drawings, BOMs, revision records, and as-built documentation throughout the project lifecycle. Obtain vendor quotations and coordinate procurement and fabrication of purchased and custom components. Provide technical support during fabrication and assembly to resolve drawing, manufacturability, assembly, and design issues as required. Support equipment assembly, installation, and commissioning through hands-on assistance, troubleshooting, and design modifications. Participate in equipment testing and validation to confirm that designs meet functional, safety, quality, and performance requirements. Monitor equipment performance following installation and work with manufacturing and maintenance personnel to analyze data and identify and implement improvements. Participate in task forces to investigate and resolve challenging technical problems. Develop technical knowledge through collaboration with experienced team members, review of applicable engineering standards and technical literature, and participation in relevant training. Travel to AstenJohnson PMC and AJ Nonwovens facilities, approximately 10–30% of the time.   Reporting Relationships Reports to: Mechanical Team Leader Coordinates with: Mechanical and Electrical Engineering team   Supervisory Responsibilities                On-site supervision: Assembly and installation activities                Coordinates with: Plant engineers and site team leader   Education/Experience B.Sc. or B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering 1-3 years of experience in machine design and manufacturing Co-op, internship, design team, machining, or similar hands-on project experience is an asset   Skills 3D CAD modelling and drawing preparation using Autodesk Inventor or equivalent Working knowledge of engineering dimensioning and tolerancing practices, including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), limits, and fits Basic knowledge of power transmission, mechanical component selection, BOM preparation, and industrial machinery safety Strong understanding of statics and dynamics and capability to prepare and solve static FBDs Attention to detail with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple project tasks and priorities Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, vendors, customers, trades personnel, and senior management Results-focused team player with the ability to work well independently Understanding of metal manufacturing processes, design for manufacturability, and welding Basic knowledge of AutoCAD 2D is an asset Knowledge of electronics and control systems is an asset Driver’s licence required Eligibility for international travel required Eligibility to pursue P.Eng. licensure in Ontario is an asset   Working Conditions The position is primarily office-based, but occasional work from home may be accommodated.   Career Opportunities P.Eng. mentorship Promotional opportunities within AstenJohnson may be available in Canada and internationally