Automation & Factory Solutions (AFS), a SunSource company, helps manufacturers improve productivity, efficiency, and performance through innovative automation technologies, industrial products, and engineered solutions. We partner with customers across North America to solve complex manufacturing challenges, optimize processes, and implement safe, efficient solutions tailored to their unique needs. Through our network of local branches, we provide customers with stocking inventory, technical support, training, and dedicated sales teams to keep their operations moving forward.
JOB SUMMARY
The Design Engineer – 80/20 contributes directly to the success of our Automation & Factory Solutions (AFS) group by supporting the design, quoting, and execution of customized aluminum construction system solutions. This role leverages CAD software to develop detailed layouts and quotes for tailored structures such as workstations, platforms, production fixtures, and other customer-specific framed solutions. Collaborating with cross-functional teams and clients, the Design Engineer ensures customer satisfaction through technical precision and efficient project execution.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
• Design & Project Execution
o Develop customer-focused designs and quotations following established design processes
o Use CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, etc.) to model solutions for 80/20 aluminum framing systems
o Assist with assembly of 80/20 projects as needed
• Sales & Customer Support
o Support Sales Engineers by identifying and advancing 80/20 product opportunities
o Visit customers or prospects when necessary to assess project needs and provide technical input
o Engage with 80/20 vendor representatives as required
• Project Tracking & Communication
o Maintain customer and prospect project records in the 80/20 Project Tracker
o Collaborate with internal teams including Inside Sales, Applications Engineering, Accounting, Shipping, and Purchasing to deliver integrated customer solutions
• General Duties
o Perform other design-related tasks as assigned
EDUCATION/WORK EXPERIENCE
Required:
• Associate’s degree in Engineering, Design, or related field
• Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or equivalent)
Preferred:
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related discipline
• Experience in mechanical design within a technical sales or manufacturing environment
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
• Demonstrated CAD design skills with experience in 2D and 3D modeling
• Mechanical aptitude with a desire to grow in a technical, customer-facing role
• Proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Highly collaborative with a focus on customer satisfaction and continuous improvement
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This role primarily involves working in an office or design environment with extended computer use. Occasional travel to customer sites and light assembly work may be required.
DISCLAIMER
This job description outlines the general duties and expectations of the Design Engineer – 80/20 position. It is not an exhaustive list, and responsibilities may change as business needs evolve.
SunSource and AFS are equal opportunity employers. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, religion, color, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected categories.
We participated in E-Verify.
Skills Required
- Associate's degree in Engineering, Design, or a related field
- Proficiency with CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or equivalent
- Demonstrated CAD design skills with 2D and 3D modeling experience
- Mechanical aptitude and interest in a technical, customer-facing role
- Proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Collaborative approach focused on customer satisfaction and continuous improvement
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related discipline
- Mechanical design experience in a technical sales or manufacturing environment
SunSource Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about SunSource and has not been reviewed or approved by SunSource.
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Healthcare Strength — Healthcare Strength: Medical, dental, and vision coverage with plan options are offered alongside wellness programs and an EAP. Offerings also include HSA/HRA and FSA choices that broaden the health coverage scope.
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Retirement Support — Retirement Support: A 401(k) with company match is included and called out in employer-provided materials. This provides a clear foundation for long-term savings within the total rewards package.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Leave & Time Off Breadth: Paid vacation and holidays are part of the package, with PTO described as decent and vacation potentially capping near four weeks. These time-off elements contribute to a rounded core benefits menu.
SunSource Insights
What We Do
SunSource, a leader in industrial and mobile fluid power distribution for over 85 years, provides customers with innovative solutions that help reduce maintenance costs, lower operating costs and increase productivity. The solutions are part of the SunSource Advantage: a comprehensive program offering design and engineering support; supply chain optimization; productivity solutions; value-added services; and repair capabilities. As a national distributor with local presence, SunSource has a unique and dominant position as a full-service resource for the industrial, OEM, MRO and mobile industrial equipment industries. We distribute a broad range of components, but SunSource is much more than a distributor just supplying fluid power components or systems. Along with high-quality products, we provide a commitment to high-quality customer service and technically sound, cost-effective solutions. SunSource’s history of accomplishment and continued growth means that we give the best condition to energetic, driven people to be effective in their role. We pride ourselves on a culture that provides opportunities for development and advancement of our associates. In addition, we build meaningful relations with our customers, suppliers and internal associates. We are all bound by a pledge to a common mission toward providing the highest quality products and services within our industry and achieving the company’s growth objectives
