Lead Designer Mechanical

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer Mechanical

Company: Exyte GmbH

Location: Portland, Oregon, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Engineering & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-04T19:25:34

Experience Level: Mid-Senior (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in the mechanical design and engineering operations, focusing on the creation and refinement of complex mechanical systems.

• Responsibilities include developing original designs, producing detailed technical documentation, and collaborating closely with manufacturing teams to ensure seamless production.

• The position requires advanced proficiency in SolidWorks, along with a strong understanding of drafting, design principles, and product lifecycle management (PLM) systems.

• Success in this role hinges on the ability to work independently, manage projects effectively, and contribute to a fast-paced engineering environment with a focus on efficiency and quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job title "Lead Designer Mechanical" suggests a role that combines advanced technical design capabilities with leadership responsibilities, likely involving guidance of junior designers or leading specific design projects. The emphasis on "advanced SolidWorks skills" and "7,500+ hrs direct experience" indicates a highly specialized and experienced individual is sought. The role is clearly within an engineering operations context, focusing on the practical application of design in a manufacturing and project delivery environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and analyze intricate mechanical systems, equipment, and packaging solutions, ensuring they meet performance and quality standards.

• Develop and execute original design concepts or adapt existing designs with specialized expertise, requiring significant problem-solving and innovation.

• Generate and modify complex technical drawings, detailed bills of materials (BOMs), and other essential documentation for manufacturing and project execution.

• Support the creation of manufacturing assembly procedures and comprehensive instructional manuals, ensuring clarity and accuracy for production teams.

• Initiate and manage part number creation and engineering change orders (ECOs) within the Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system, maintaining design integrity and traceability.

• Work autonomously with minimal supervision, demonstrating initiative and accountability for project deliverables.

• Perform other duties as assigned, which may include supporting R&D, troubleshooting design issues, or participating in cross-functional project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a hands-on design engineering role with a strong emphasis on documentation and process adherence within a PLM framework. The mention of "supporting complex projects" and "assisting in development of original designs" suggests a level of autonomy and creative problem-solving beyond basic drafting.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Associate's Degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience: 3+ years of experience in drafting, designing, or a related technical field. A minimum of 2-3 years specifically in equipment, product design, and advanced SolidWorks application is required.

Required Skills:

• Advanced knowledge of drafting and design principles, including fundamental concepts, practices, and procedures.

• Proven ability to support and contribute to complex engineering projects.

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities to address design challenges effectively.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills for clear stakeholder interaction and documentation.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems for managing design data and change orders.

• Familiarity with manufacturing assembly procedures and technical documentation creation.

• Ability to interpret and create detailed bills of materials (BOMs).

• Experience in generating and managing engineering change orders (ECOs).

• Aptitude for independent work and project ownership in a fast-paced engineering setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stringent requirement for "advanced SolidWorks skills (>7,500 hrs direct Solidworks experience)" is a critical differentiator for this role, indicating a need for a highly specialized and experienced designer rather than a generalist. The educational requirement is flexible, allowing for equivalent experience, which is common in technical design roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of complex mechanical systems designed using SolidWorks, demonstrating proficiency in 3D modeling, assemblies, and detailed part creation.

• Include a variety of technical drawings (e.g., assembly drawings, fabrication drawings, GD&T callouts) that highlight accuracy and adherence to industry standards.

• Present case studies of products or equipment designed, detailing the design process, challenges encountered, and solutions implemented.

• Demonstrate experience with Bill of Materials (BOM) generation and management, showing accuracy and completeness.

Process Documentation:

• Provide evidence of creating or contributing to manufacturing assembly procedures, emphasizing clarity and practical application for production teams.

• Include documentation related to product or equipment packaging design, showcasing considerations for protection, transport, and user interaction.

• Showcase examples of technical documentation created, such as user manuals or maintenance guides, that support the designed systems.

• If applicable, include examples of work within a Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system, demonstrating understanding of data management and revision control.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a "Lead Designer" role, a portfolio is crucial to validate advanced technical skills. The emphasis should be on complex designs, robust documentation, and practical application within a manufacturing context. Evidence of PLM system interaction is highly valuable.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Lead Mechanical Designer with advanced SolidWorks skills and 3-5 years of experience in Portland, Oregon, the estimated salary range is $85,000 - $115,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401k) with company matching.

• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and continuing education in mechanical design and engineering.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.

• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, with potential for occasional overtime to meet project deadlines. Standard business hours are expected, but flexibility may be offered depending on project needs and team collaboration requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on current market data for similar roles in the Portland, OR area, considering the specified experience level and advanced technical skill requirements. Exyte GmbH, as a global engineering firm, is expected to offer a competitive benefits package.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Exyte GmbH operates in the high-tech construction and engineering sector, specializing in cleanroom technology, semiconductor facilities, life sciences, and data centers. This industry demands precision, innovation, and a deep understanding of complex operational environments.

Company Size: Exyte GmbH is a large global company with over 7,500 employees worldwide, indicating a stable and well-established organization with significant resources and international reach.

Founded: Founded in 1912, Exyte has a long history of engineering excellence and innovation, providing a foundation of expertise and reliability that informs its current operations and culture.

Team Structure:

• The mechanical design team is likely part of a larger engineering department, potentially structured by project or specialization area.

• Reporting structure would typically involve a Lead Designer, Engineering Manager, or Project Lead, with collaboration across disciplines like electrical engineering, process engineering, and project management.

Methodology:

• The company's approach to operations and design is data-driven, emphasizing rigorous analysis, adherence to strict quality standards, and efficient project execution.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, especially in highly regulated industries requiring meticulous documentation and process control.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely integrated through advanced design tools, PLM systems, and streamlined project management methodologies.

Company Website: https://careers.exyte.net/global/en

📝 Enhancement Note: Exyte's long history and global presence suggest a culture that values experience, technical expertise, and a structured approach to complex engineering projects. The company's focus on high-tech industries implies a dynamic, innovation-driven, and quality-conscious environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior level, designated as "Lead Designer." It implies a significant degree of autonomy, responsibility for complex design tasks, and potentially the mentorship or guidance of less experienced designers. The scope of work includes critical design analysis, documentation, and collaboration with manufacturing.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer Mechanical is expected to report to a higher-level engineering manager, project lead, or a director of engineering. They will likely collaborate extensively with cross-functional teams, including project management, manufacturing, and other engineering disciplines.

Operations Impact: The mechanical design operations directly impact project timelines, budget adherence, and the overall quality and functionality of the complex systems Exyte delivers. Effective design ensures manufacturability, reliability, and client satisfaction, contributing significantly to Exyte's reputation and revenue.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced SolidWorks functionalities, specific material science, or specialized mechanical analysis techniques relevant to Exyte's core industries.

• Project Leadership: Progress into roles with greater project management responsibility, leading design teams for major projects or specific client engagements.

• Mentorship & Training: Transition into a role focused on training and mentoring junior designers, developing internal talent and design standards.

• Cross-Disciplinary Roles: Explore opportunities in related engineering fields or project management, leveraging a strong foundation in mechanical design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead" designation is key here, suggesting a step beyond individual contributor roles, with expectations around technical leadership and potentially influencing design processes.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a traditional office environment within an Exyte facility in Portland, OR. This setting typically fosters direct collaboration, spontaneous problem-solving, and access to internal resources.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Portland, Oregon, a hub for various industries, offering a good quality of life and access to a skilled workforce. Specific office details would be provided upon inquiry or during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be equipped with standard office amenities and, crucially, high-performance workstations capable of running advanced CAD software like SolidWorks.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with engineering colleagues, project managers, and potentially manufacturing liaisons are abundant, facilitating efficient communication and problem-solving.

• Access to necessary engineering software, documentation systems (like PLM), and potentially prototyping or testing facilities will be available to support design tasks.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, typically 40 hours per week. While standard business hours are expected, the fast-paced engineering environment may necessitate occasional flexibility to meet project deadlines or critical client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is typical for roles involving complex CAD work and close collaboration with manufacturing or project teams, ensuring seamless workflow and immediate access to necessary resources.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review your application and resume, focusing on your SolidWorks experience and relevant design background.

• Technical Interview: This stage will likely involve a deep dive into your mechanical design experience, problem-solving approach, and specific SolidWorks skills. Expect scenario-based questions and discussions about your past projects.

• Portfolio Review: You will be asked to present and discuss your portfolio, highlighting specific examples of your work, design challenges, and solutions. The focus will be on advanced SolidWorks applications and documentation.

• Team/Manager Interview: This phase assesses cultural fit, collaboration style, and your ability to work within Exyte's engineering environment. Questions may revolve around teamwork, project management, and your understanding of Exyte's industries.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader, this interview confirms your suitability for the "Lead" aspect of the role and overall alignment with company objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best showcase advanced SolidWorks skills, complex design challenges, and successful outcomes.

• Highlight Process & Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your design approach, the specific SolidWorks techniques used, challenges overcome, and the quantifiable results or benefits achieved (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, improved performance).

• Demonstrate Documentation: Include examples of detailed drawings, BOMs, and any relevant assembly procedures or ECO documentation to showcase your thoroughness.

• Be Prepared to Discuss: Be ready to verbally walk through your designs, explain your decision-making process, and answer in-depth technical questions about SolidWorks functionality and mechanical engineering principles.

• Tailor to Exyte: If possible, research Exyte's projects and tailor your presentation to align with their industry focus (e.g., semiconductor facilities, high-tech manufacturing).

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for technical questions that assess your understanding of mechanical principles, materials, and manufacturing processes.

• Practice explaining complex technical concepts clearly and concisely.

• Prepare to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical design problem relevant to Exyte's business, focusing on your methodology and problem-solving skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "advanced SolidWorks skills" and a "portfolio review" means candidates must be prepared to demonstrate their technical prowess through concrete examples and detailed explanations of their design process and outcomes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• SolidWorks: This is the core CAD software. Advanced proficiency is mandatory, including 3D modeling, complex assemblies, surface modeling, simulation (FEA), and potentially PDM/PLM integration.

• Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) System: Experience with systems like PTC Windchill, Siemens Teamcenter, or similar for managing design data, revisions, and engineering change orders is highly valuable.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for documentation, reporting, and communication (Word for technical documents, Excel for BOMs and data analysis, PowerPoint for presentations).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated, basic data analysis skills using Excel or other tools may be required for BOM management, cost estimations, or performance tracking of designs.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but understanding how design data flows into broader business systems (like ERP or project management software) is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: SolidWorks is the non-negotiable primary tool. Any experience with PLM systems will significantly boost a candidate's profile, as it's mentioned in the responsibilities.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision & Quality: A commitment to accuracy in design, documentation, and execution, essential for Exyte's high-tech industry clients.

• Innovation: Driving forward with new design concepts and solutions to meet evolving technological demands and client needs.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with cross-functional teams to achieve common project goals, valuing diverse perspectives.

• Efficiency: Streamlining design processes and documentation to ensure timely project delivery and cost-effectiveness.

• Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards and professional conduct in all aspects of work.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with project managers, manufacturing engineers, and other disciplines to ensure designs are practical, manufacturable, and meet project requirements.

• Process Review Culture: Openness to feedback on designs and processes, participating in design reviews to improve outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share expertise, particularly regarding advanced SolidWorks techniques and design best practices, contributing to team growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: Exyte's focus on high-tech industries implies a culture that values technical expertise, rigorous processes, and a collaborative, results-oriented approach.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Complexity and Efficiency: Designing highly complex mechanical systems while adhering to tight project timelines and budgets.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with advancements in SolidWorks, materials, and manufacturing processes to maintain a competitive edge.

• Cross-Disciplinary Communication: Effectively translating complex mechanical designs into understandable information for non-mechanical team members and stakeholders.

• Independent Problem-Solving: Tackling novel design issues with limited direct supervision, requiring strong analytical and creative thinking.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CAD Training: Opportunities to pursue certifications or specialized training in advanced SolidWorks modules (e.g., Simulation, Surfacing, PDM/PLM integration).

• Industry-Specific Knowledge: Deepen understanding of cleanroom technology, semiconductor manufacturing processes, or data center infrastructure through project work and company resources.

• Project Leadership Development: Potential to take on more responsibility in project planning, team coordination, and client interaction.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to senior engineers and designers for guidance on technical skills and career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to a "Lead" role in a demanding industry, requiring both technical mastery and strategic thinking. Growth opportunities are tied to both technical depth and leadership potential.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex mechanical system you designed using SolidWorks. What were the primary challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your problem-solving methodology, advanced SolidWorks features used, and the impact of your design.)

• "How do you ensure your designs are manufacturable and cost-effective, especially when working with tight project constraints?" (Discuss your approach to DFM/DFA, collaboration with manufacturing, and BOM management.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Exyte, and what do you know about our work in high-tech industries?" (Research Exyte's recent projects, values, and market position.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with teams from different engineering disciplines (e.g., electrical, process)?" (Provide examples of successful cross-functional teamwork and communication strategies.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, use a clear narrative: Problem Statement -> Design Approach/Tools -> Challenges & Solutions -> Results/Impact.

• Visuals: Use high-quality renderings, animations, and drawings from SolidWorks to illustrate your designs.

• Metrics: Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., "reduced assembly time by 15%," "improved thermal performance by 10%").

• Active Engagement: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your design choices, SolidWorks functionality, and manufacturing considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize the candidate's practical SolidWorks skills and ability to translate those skills into tangible engineering solutions within a project context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Designer Mechanical position:

• Submit your application through the Exyte GmbH careers portal.

• Prepare a comprehensive portfolio that showcases at least 3-5 complex mechanical designs created with SolidWorks, including detailed drawings, BOMs, and project summaries.

• Tailor your resume to highlight your advanced SolidWorks experience (specifically mentioning the 7,500+ hours), drafting/design experience, and any PLM system knowledge. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Research Exyte GmbH thoroughly, understanding their core industries, recent projects, and company values to articulate your interest and cultural fit during interviews.

• Practice presenting your portfolio and discussing your design process, focusing on clarity, technical detail, and the impact of your work. Be ready to answer in-depth technical questions.

⚠️ 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.

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