Mechanical Design Technologist / Engineer (EIT)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Mechanical Design Technologist / Engineer (EIT)

Company: Kinetic Custom Trailers

Location: Waco, TX, United States

Job Type: Salaried Full-Time

Category: Mechanical Design Engineering / Trailer Manufacturing Operations

Date Posted: September 13, 2025

Experience Level: 2-5 Years (Entry to Mid-Level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the end-to-end mechanical design process for heavy-duty trailers, from conceptualization to production support, utilizing advanced CAD and FEA tools.

• Ensure designs meet stringent structural integrity, weight distribution, and regulatory compliance requirements (FMVSS/DOT) through meticulous calculations and validation.

• Collaborate closely with sales, operations, and production teams to translate customer needs into manufacturable and cost-effective trailer solutions.

• Focus on Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles to optimize fabrication processes, reduce waste, and enhance build efficiency in a shop-floor environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a hands-on, applied engineering position within a manufacturing company. The emphasis on "maker culture," "bias for action," and "shop-floor realities" suggests a dynamic environment focused on practical problem-solving and tangible results, rather than purely theoretical design. The dual title "Technologist / Engineer (EIT)" indicates a flexible approach to candidate backgrounds, valuing both practical experience and formal engineering education, with a clear pathway for those pursuing Professional Engineering (PE) licensure in Texas.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and validate detailed 3D models and 2D drawings for trailer structures, frames, subframes, suspensions, hitches, and associated systems using SolidWorks.

• Conduct targeted Finite Element Analysis (FEA) on critical structural members and joints to ensure design integrity under load.

• Generate comprehensive Bills of Materials (BOMs), production drawings with weld symbols (per AWS D1.1), and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) annotations.

• Perform and document weight distribution, axle load calculations, and load capacity verifications to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

• Provide direct support to the production floor, addressing fabrication and assembly queries, issuing redlines, and driving continuous improvement through Engineering Change Notices (ECNs).

• Collaborate with the Sales team to understand customer requirements, evaluate design options, and assess trade-offs between cost, weight, and performance.

• Manage or contribute to project engineering tasks, including scheduling, risk assessment, vendor coordination, and cross-functional team communication to meet build deadlines.

• For candidates on the EIT track, perform engineering tasks under the supervision of a Texas Professional Engineer (PE) and meticulously document experience towards PE licensure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of core design engineering tasks with significant emphasis on production integration and project management. The explicit mention of AWS D1.1, FMVSS/DOT compliance, and supporting production with "timely clarifications, redlines, and continual DFM improvements" underscores the practical, hands-on nature of the role. The inclusion of "project engineering" implies a need for candidates to manage timelines and resources, even at a junior to mid-level.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Bachelor of Science (BS) in Engineering Technology (ETAC/ABET accredited) OR

• Bachelor of Science (BS) in Mechanical Engineering (EAC/ABET accredited) OR

Experience:

• A minimum of 3 years of experience in mechanical design, preferably within fabrication, heavy equipment, off-highway vehicles, or the trailer manufacturing industries.

• Strong preference for candidates with demonstrated experience in these specific domains, though exceptional junior candidates with a compelling portfolio will be considered.

Required Skills:

• Steel Fabrication Literacy: Deep understanding of cutting, forming, machining, welding (AWS D1.1), and fixture-friendly design principles; practical instincts for Design for Manufacturability (DFM).

• SolidWorks Fluency: Proven ability to create stable, parametric 3D models and produce clear, concise 2D drawings; working knowledge of FEA setup and result interpretation.

• Trailer Systems Knowledge: Familiarity with hydraulic and pneumatic circuits, trailer brake systems, lighting/wiring basics, and common trailer hardware components.

• Analytical & Detail Orientation: Strong analytical thinking, root-cause analysis discipline, and meticulous attention to detail are critical for accurate calculations and design validation.

• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective collaboration with internal teams and external stakeholders.

• Microsoft 365 Proficiency: Competence in Excel for calculations, Word for documentation, and PowerPoint for presentations.

Preferred Skills:

• EIT Certification: Engineer-in-Training (FE Exam passed) in Texas or eligibility to obtain it; actively pursuing PE licensure.

• Specialized Certifications: Exposure or certification in areas such as NICET, SME (CMfgT/CMfgE), ASNT (NDT II), ASQ (CQT/CQE), or AWS (CWI) would be advantageous.

• FEA Expertise: Deeper experience with FEA software beyond basic setup and interpretation.

• Load Calculation Expertise: Advanced understanding of structural load calculations and compliance standards relevant to trailer design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The distinction between AAS/BS in Engineering Technology and BS in Mechanical Engineering, coupled with the EIT track, signifies that Kinetic Custom Trailers values a practical, hands-on approach to design as much as a traditional engineering background. The emphasis on "steel fabrication literacy" and "DFM instincts" is paramount. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate not just CAD proficiency but a solid understanding of how designs translate to real-world manufacturing processes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• CAD Model Examples: Showcase well-structured, parametric SolidWorks models demonstrating design intent, part assemblies, and clear feature trees.

• Technical Drawing Samples: Include detailed 2D drawings with dimensions, tolerances (GD&T), weld symbols (AWS D1.1), and BOM integration.

• FEA Case Studies: Present examples of FEA analyses performed, including setup, boundary conditions, load cases, and interpretation of results for structural validation.

• DFM/Manufacturing Integration: Provide examples where design choices were directly influenced by manufacturing constraints or capabilities, illustrating efficiency improvements.

• Calculation Documentation: Demonstrate clear documentation of load calculations, weight distribution, and compliance checks relevant to trailer or heavy equipment design.

Process Documentation:

• Design Workflow: Illustrate a typical design process from initial requirements gathering through concept development, detailed design, validation, and release.

• Collaboration Protocols: Show how you interact with production, sales, or other engineering disciplines to gather feedback and resolve issues.

• ECN/Redline Examples: Present instances where design revisions were documented and communicated effectively to production or suppliers.

• System Integration: If applicable, show how designs integrate with hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical systems, including schematic considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on mechanical design within manufacturing, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only display technical proficiency in CAD and analysis but also demonstrate practical application, problem-solving skills related to manufacturability, and an understanding of the full product lifecycle from concept to shop floor. The inclusion of calculation documentation and ECN examples is highly relevant.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Design Technologist: $80,000 – $100,000 USD per year

• Engineer (EIT) / Sr. Technologist: $95,000 – $110,000 USD per year

Rationale for Estimate: These ranges are based on industry benchmarks for Mechanical Design Technologists and Engineers-in-Training (EIT) with 2-5 years of experience in the manufacturing and heavy equipment sectors, specifically for the Waco, Texas market. The provided ranges reflect the company's explicit stated compensation bands. The higher end of the EIT/Sr. Technologist range accounts for candidates with strong EIT credentials and advanced experience.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Includes health, dental, and vision insurance, providing robust coverage for employees and their families.

• Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous leave policies to support work-life balance.

• Training Budget for Certifications: Financial support and allocated time for professional development, including EIT/PE fees, AWS certifications, NICET, SME, ASQ, and ASNT.

• Shift Differentials: Additional pay for non-standard work hours, if applicable.

• Project/Annual Bonus Eligibility: Performance-based bonuses tied to individual, team, or company-wide achievements, aligned with Texas market practices.

Working Hours:

• Standard: 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

• Flexibility: Occasional flexibility may be required during critical build or testing milestones, reflecting the project-driven nature of trailer manufacturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary ranges are explicitly provided by the employer. The benefits are detailed, with a specific mention of a training budget for relevant certifications, which is a significant draw for EITs and technologists looking to advance their careers and pursue PE licensure. The mention of "Texas market practices" for bonuses suggests performance incentives are a key component.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Trailer Manufacturing (Heavy-Duty, Specialized Equipment)

• The company operates within a niche but critical segment of the manufacturing sector, serving industries like oil & gas, construction, and energy. This implies a focus on durability, reliability, and custom solutions.

Company Size: The description suggests a growing company, likely in the small to medium-sized enterprise (SME) range, indicated by the expansion in Texas and the emphasis on building an "energized team." This size often means more direct impact and broader responsibilities for individuals.

Founded: While not explicitly stated, the description implies a company with established expertise in trailer design and manufacturing that is now expanding its footprint. This suggests a blend of proven methodologies and a forward-looking growth strategy.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The role is embedded within the design and operations function, closely linked to production.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Expected to work directly with Sales, Production, and potentially external vendors and customers.

• Reporting: Likely reports into a Lead Designer, Engineering Manager, or Operations Manager, with proximity to shop floor personnel.

Methodology:

• Practical Design: Emphasis on "practical, field-tested design" and "shop-floor realities."

• Fast Iteration: A "bias for action" and ability to iterate designs quickly.

• Solutions-Oriented: Focus on delivering "rugged trailers for the most demanding applications."

• Continuous Improvement: Implied through "DFM improvements" and building an "energized, solutions-oriented team."

Company Website: [Kinetic – Careers] (Implied from application instructions)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is characterized by a "maker culture," "bias for action," and a focus on practical, durable solutions. This environment is ideal for hands-on engineers and technologists who prefer tangible results and direct contribution to the manufacturing process. The growth phase suggests opportunities for individuals to shape processes and contribute to scaling operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry to mid-level position, suitable for individuals with 2-5 years of experience. It caters to both established Design Technologists seeking to deepen their expertise and Engineers-in-Training (EITs) looking to gain practical experience and work towards PE licensure. The scope involves owning designs from concept to production support.

Reporting Structure: The candidate will likely report to a senior engineering leader or operations manager. Direct collaboration with production supervisors and team members on the shop floor is expected, fostering a flat and communicative hierarchy within the immediate team.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts product quality, manufacturability, cost, and delivery timelines for specialized heavy-duty trailers. Successful designs contribute to customer satisfaction, brand reputation, and the company's ability to meet market demands in critical industrial sectors.

Growth Opportunities:

• PE Licensure Track: For EITs, the primary growth path involves accumulating supervised experience under a Texas PE, leading to Professional Engineering licensure. The company explicitly supports this through a training budget and relevant experience documentation.

• Design Leadership: Opportunities to take on more complex design projects, mentor junior technologists, and potentially lead design initiatives for new product families.

• Project Engineering/Management: Transitioning into roles that manage entire trailer projects, coordinating resources, schedules, and cross-functional activities.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific trailer systems (e.g., hydraulics, structural analysis, custom fabrication) or industry applications (e.g., oil & gas, construction equipment).

📝 Enhancement Note: The dual career path (Technologist vs. EIT/PE) is a significant aspect. Candidates should understand whether their aspirations align with being a highly skilled technologist or pursuing professional engineering licensure. The company's support for PE licensure is a strong indicator of commitment to employee development in this area.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an on-site role within a manufacturing facility. This includes office space for design work and close proximity to the production floor.

Office Location(s): Waco, Texas. The role requires physical presence at the Waco facility, with potential for occasional visits to vendors, customers, or field sites.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Design Space: Likely an open or shared office environment conducive to teamwork and quick consultations with colleagues.

• Access to Manufacturing: Proximity to the fabrication shop floor is essential for DFM reviews, problem-solving during builds, and understanding real-world production challenges.

• Tools & Technology: Access to SolidWorks workstations, FEA software, and standard office productivity tools. Potential for hands-on interaction with prototypes and fabricated parts.

Work Schedule:

• A stable, full-time schedule of 40 hours per week (Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 4:30 PM) is standard.

• Flexibility may be required during peak production periods or critical project milestones, reflecting the demands of manufacturing deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is a practical, hands-on role that requires being physically present in a manufacturing environment. The workspace context emphasizes direct interaction with both design tools and the production floor, which is crucial for effective DFM and problem-solving.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review, focusing on resume, cover letter, and portfolio.

• Technical Interview: Detailed discussion of design experience, SolidWorks proficiency, FEA understanding, DFM principles, and fabrication knowledge. May include a technical assessment or problem-solving exercise.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation and discussion of selected portfolio projects, focusing on design process, problem-solving, and outcomes.

• Cross-Functional/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members from design, production, or sales to assess collaboration style and cultural alignment with Kinetic's "maker culture" and "bias for action."

• Final Interview: Discussion with hiring manager or senior leadership to finalize the offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your skills relevant to trailer design, steel fabrication, and DFM. Prioritize quality over quantity.

• Showcase Process: For each project, detail the problem statement, your design approach, key decisions made, tools used (CAD, FEA), challenges overcome, and the final outcome/impact.

• Highlight DFM & Calculations: Explicitly point out where DFM principles were applied and how load/weight calculations were performed and validated.

• Visual Clarity: Use clear renderings, drawings, and schematics. If possible, include photos of the manufactured product.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, quantify improvements (e.g., weight reduction, cost savings, improved manufacturability).

• Prepare for Discussion: Be ready to articulate your design choices, defend your solutions, and explain your role in team projects.

Challenge Preparation:

• DFM/Design Exercise: Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge or a review of a provided design, requiring you to identify potential issues and suggest improvements related to manufacturing and cost-effectiveness.

• Calculation Task: A potential task involving basic load or weight distribution calculations for a trailer component.

• SolidWorks/CAD Test: A practical test to assess your proficiency in SolidWorks, potentially involving modeling a component or modifying an existing design.

• Communication Scenarios: Questions or role-playing scenarios to assess how you would communicate design intent or resolve issues with production or sales.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential technical challenges indicates that Kinetic Custom Trailers places a high value on practical skills and demonstrated experience. Candidates should prepare to actively present their work and articulate their design process, not just verbally but through visual aids and project examples.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• SolidWorks: The core CAD software for 3D modeling, assembly, and 2D drawing creation. Proficiency is essential.

• FEA Software (e.g., SolidWorks Simulation, ANSYS): Used for structural analysis and validation of critical components and assemblies. Working knowledge of setup and interpretation is required.

• Microsoft 365 Suite:

  • Excel: For calculations (weight, load, material properties), data analysis, and BOM management.
  • Word: For technical documentation, reports, and ECNs.
  • PowerPoint: For presentations of designs, project updates, and meeting contributions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• PDM/PLM Systems (Basic Understanding): While not explicitly required at an advanced level, familiarity with systems used for managing design revisions, BOMs, and engineering documentation is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Systems: Potential use of internal systems for BOM management, project tracking, and communication that may integrate with or supplement PDM/PLM functions.

• Collaboration Tools: Standard communication platforms (e.g., email, internal messaging) for day-to-day interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: SolidWorks is the central tool. Candidates should highlight their experience with it, including advanced features if applicable. FEA proficiency is also key, particularly for structural analysis in a heavy-duty application. Microsoft 365 is standard but critical for documentation and analysis.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Practicality & Durability: A core value in designing "rugged trailers for the most demanding applications." Designs must be robust and reliable in harsh conditions.

• Bias for Action: Emphasizes efficiency, quick decision-making, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Essential for integrating design with sales and production, fostering a "solutions-oriented team."

• Continuous Improvement: A commitment to refining designs, manufacturing processes, and operational efficiency.

• Ownership & Accountability: Taking responsibility for designs from inception through production support and contributing to project success.

Collaboration Style:

• Hands-On & Direct: Expect frequent interaction with shop floor personnel, requiring clear communication and a willingness to work through issues collaboratively on-site.

• Cross-Functional: Regular engagement with Sales to define requirements and Production to ensure manufacturability and address build challenges.

• Feedback-Driven: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback on designs and processes.

• Problem-Solving Focused: A collective effort to identify and resolve design and manufacturing challenges efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a practical, results-oriented approach with a strong emphasis on collaboration between design and manufacturing. Candidates who thrive in a hands-on environment where their work directly impacts production will fit well.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Customization and Standardization: Meeting diverse customer needs for specialized trailers while maintaining design efficiency and production scalability.

• Weight vs. Strength Optimization: Achieving maximum payload capacity and structural integrity within strict weight limits, a common challenge in trailer design.

• Rapid Prototyping & Iteration: Adapting quickly to design feedback from production or sales and implementing changes efficiently.

• Regulatory Compliance: Staying current with and ensuring designs meet evolving FMVSS/DOT and industry standards.

• Integration of Systems: Effectively designing for complex hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems within trailer structures.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• PE Licensure Support: Guided experience accumulation and financial support for EITs pursuing their Professional Engineering license.

• Advanced CAD/FEA Training: Opportunities to deepen skills in SolidWorks and FEA software through company-sponsored training or external courses.

• Industry Certifications: Access to a training budget for certifications such as AWS CWI, NICET, SME, ASQ, or ASNT, enhancing expertise in specialized areas.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining a comprehensive understanding of sales processes, production methodologies, and customer applications.

• Project Management Skills: Developing skills in leading projects, managing timelines, and coordinating resources.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a custom manufacturing environment, requiring adaptability and strong problem-solving. The growth opportunities are clearly defined, particularly the support for PE licensure, which is a significant benefit for aspiring engineers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Philosophy: "Describe your approach to designing a heavy-duty trailer frame. How do you balance strength, weight, and cost?" (Focus on DFM, material selection, load paths, and calculation methods).

• Problem-Solving Scenario: "Imagine a trailer frame is failing under load during testing. How would you approach diagnosing the root cause and what steps would you take to redesign it?" (Emphasize analytical thinking, FEA, collaboration with production, and ECN process).

• Collaboration & Communication: "How would you handle a situation where the production team identifies a significant DFM issue with one of your designs just as fabrication is starting?" (Highlight communication skills, willingness to collaborate, and finding practical solutions).

• SolidWorks & FEA Application: "Can you walk me through a specific project where you used SolidWorks for complex modeling and FEA for validation? What were the key challenges and outcomes?" (Prepare to present a relevant portfolio piece).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Kinetic Custom Trailers and the heavy-duty trailer industry?" (Research the company's products, target markets, and mission).

• "How do you see yourself fitting into a 'maker culture' with a 'bias for action'?" (Reflect on your preferred work style and how it aligns with these values).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, present: Problem/Objective -> Your Role & Approach -> Design Process (CAD, FEA, Calculations) -> DFM Considerations -> Challenges & Solutions -> Final Outcome/Impact.

• Visuals: Use high-quality renderings, clear drawings, and relevant photos. Be prepared to share your screen and navigate through CAD models if requested.

• Quantification: Highlight any measurable improvements (e.g., weight reduction percentages, cost savings, cycle time improvements).

• EIT Track: If applicable, clearly articulate how your contributions directly supported or were under the guidance of a PE, and how this experience is being documented.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical application of design principles, understanding of manufacturing realities, and strong communication skills. Candidates must be ready to present their portfolio effectively and articulate solutions to real-world engineering challenges.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the application link provided: [Kinetic – Careers].

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects involving steel fabrication, trailer components, SolidWorks proficiency, and DFM applications. Clearly label your role in each project and quantify achievements where possible.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your experience with SolidWorks, FEA, DFM, load calculations, and any relevant industry standards (AWS D1.1, FMVSS/DOT). Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving methodologies, and how you collaborate with production teams. Prepare specific examples for common interview questions.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Kinetic Custom Trailers' product lines, target industries, and company values. Understand their position in the market and prepare to discuss how your skills align with their "maker culture" and "bias for action."

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.