About Kinetic Custom Trailers Join a team where innovation meets craftsmanship — Welcome to Kinetic Custom Trailers. At KINETIC, we don’t just build trailers, we engineer custom solutions that push the boundaries of design, functionality, and quality. As a leader in the custom trailer manufacturing industry, we take pride in creating smart, efficient designs that meet the unique needs of every client, no matter how complex or specialized. Backed by nearly a decade of proven success at our long-standing Canadian headquarters, we’re bringing that momentum to Waco—opening fresh opportunities for skilled, driven people to grow with us. Whether you’re on the shop floor, behind a CAD screen, or working with customers, you’ll be part of a company that values excellence, adaptability, and forward-thinking. We know it’s not just about the work—it’s about the people. At KINETIC, we’re building more than trailers; we’re building a culture. A culture where every team member is respected, supported, and seen as essential to our success. We strive to create a workplace that offers more than just a job. We offer long-term growth, mentorship, flexibility, and a strong sense of pride in what we build together. If you’re passionate about craftsmanship, thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and want to be part of something bold and growing, we’d love to meet you. Are you a hands-on mechanical design technologist or engineer-in-training who loves turning ideas into rugged trailers? Kinetic Custom Trailers is expanding in Texas and seeking a collaborative, detail-driven professional to help us design, develop, and deliver heavy-duty trailers for the most demanding applications. Who We Are Kinetic Custom Trailers designs and manufactures high-quality, heavy-duty trailers for oil & gas, construction, energy, and specialized equipment sectors. We pair practical, field-tested design with disciplined engineering, fast iteration, and tight collaboration between design, operations, and the customer. Our Texas site in Waco is building an energized, solutions-oriented team with a strong maker culture and a bias for action. Who You Are You’re an applied problem-solver who balances clean models with shop-floor realities. You’re comfortable owning designs end-to-end—requirements, concepts, CAD/FEA, DFM, and build support—and you communicate clearly with production, vendors, and customers. Whether you come from a 2-year engineering technology background or are an EIT on the PE path, you bring sound judgment, manufacturing literacy, and pride in robust, practical designs. Key Responsibilities • Model and validate trailer structures and systems (frames, subframes, suspensions, hitches, braking, hydraulics/pneumatics) in SolidWorks, with targeted FEA for critical members and joints. • Produce drawings, BOMs, and weld symbols per AWS D1.1 and GD&T best practices; release clear shop packages that build cleanly. • Own weight distribution and axle/load calculations; verify compliance with FMVSS/DOT and applicable industry standards; maintain design records. • Benchmark competitors and collaborate with Sales on requirements, options, and cost/weight trade-offs; propose smart design families and variants. • Support Production during fabrication/assembly with timely clarifications, redlines, and continual DFM improvements; close the loop via ECNs. • Lead or contribute to project engineering: schedules, risk registers, vendor coordination, and cross-functional stand-ups to hit build dates. • (EIT track) Perform engineering tasks under the responsible charge of a Texas PE and document experience toward PE licensure. Required Knowledge & Skills • Steel fabrication literacy: cutting, forming, machining, welding, and fixture-friendly design; practical DFM instincts. • Fluency in SolidWorks; ability to build stable parametric models and clean drawings; working knowledge of FEA setup/interpretation. • Familiarity with hydraulic/pneumatic circuits, brake systems, lighting/wiring basics, and trailer hardware. • Strong analytical thinking, root-cause discipline, and meticulous attention to detail; excellent written/verbal communication. Education & Experience • Either: AAS/BS in Engineering Technology (ETAC/ABET) or BS in Mechanical Engineering (EAC/ABET), or equivalent practical background. • 3+ years in mechanical design within fabrication, heavy equipment, off-highway, or trailer domains preferred (open to strong juniors with portfolio). • Proficient with Microsoft 365 (Excel/Word/PowerPoint) and PDM/PLM basics. Nice-to-Have Certifications • EIT (FE passed) in Texas (or eligible); NICET, SME CMfgT/CMfgE, ASNT NDT II, ASQ CQT/CQE, AWS CWI exposure helpful. What a Career at Kinetic Can Offer You • Competitive Pay: • * Design Technologist: $80,000–$100,000 • Engineer (EIT) / Sr. Technologist: $95,000–$110,000 (We also offer shift differentials and project/annual bonus eligibility aligned with Texas market practices.), based on experience • Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package, paid holidays and paid time off, training budget for certifications (EIT/PE fees, AWS, NICET, SME, ASQ, ASNT) • Growth Opportunities: Clear growth paths in design leadership, project engineering/management, or the PE licensure track • Team Environment: Work in a collaborative, continuous improvement-focused production shop • Stability: Full-time, permanent position with consistent hours Schedule & Work Details • Hours: Full-time, Monday–Friday, 8am - 4:30pm, 40 hrs/week with flexibility during build/test milestones. • Worksite: On-site in Waco, TX with occasional vendor/customer/field visits. Join Kinetic Custom Trailers and be an essential part of shaping innovative solutions in trailer manufacturing. Apply now to help drive the future of our industry! To Apply: Please submit your resume, cover letter, and design portfolio through our website at Kinetic – Careers. We appreciate all applications, but only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The pay range for this role is: 80,000 - 110,000 USD per year(Waco, TX)
See More Details >>Description: Classification Exempt Reports to Director of Operations JOB DESCRIPTION Summary/Objective The Mechanical Drafter is responsible for preparing and maintaining accurate 2D and 3D CAD drawings for transformer components, tooling, and assemblies. This role ensures compliance with industry standards, supports manufacturing and assembly through precise documentation, and assists with engineering change management. The Mechanical Drafter collaborates with engineering, quality, and production teams to deliver clear and consistent technical drawings that support VanTran’s product quality and manufacturing efficiency. Essential Functions • Daily On-Site Attendance. • Prepare 2D and 3D CAD drawings using SolidWorks. • Generate detailed views of transformer components such as - Transformer tanks and enclosures - Cooling systems (radiators, fans) - Core and coil assemblies (in coordination with electrical designers) - Bushings and terminals - Mounting and lifting structures • Ensure materials are correctly specified for manufacturing. • Upload drawings and files to NetSuite. • Ensure all drawings meet relevant industry standards such as IEEE C57, ANSI, and NEMA. • Maintain consistent drawing practices and tolerancing standards. • Provide technical support to manufacturing, assembly, and quality teams. • Generate fabrication and assembly drawings to guide the shop floor. • Assist in inspections of tanks, cabinets, and steel products as needed. • Support nonconformance investigations for tanks, cabinets, and steel products. • Modify existing drawings and documentation to reflect design changes or improvements. • Maintain up-to-date and timely drawing revisions. • Work closely with Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Lean, and Quality. • Participate in product and process improvement projects. Competencies • Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks required). • Knowledge of drafting standards and GD&T practices. • Attention to detail and accuracy. • Documentation management and file organization. • Collaboration and cross-departmental communication. • Time management and prioritization. • Problem-solving mindset. • Proficiency in Microsoft Office products. Supervisory Responsibility This position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities. Environment/Physical Requirements The ideal candidate must be able to complete all physical requirements of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. • Must be able to access and navigate each department in the Office and Factory Floor. • Prolonged periods of walking and standing on factory floor. Position Type and Expected Hours of Work This is a full-time position, and hours of work and days are Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm. However, depending on workload there may be occasional longer days and occasional weekends as needed. Employee is expected to work the hours necessary in order to timely and satisfactorily complete all necessary work tasks. Travel Travel is not required for this position. Education and Experience • Associate’s degree or certificate in Drafting, Design Technology, or related field required.1+ years of mechanical drafting experience preferred. • SolidWorks proficiency required. • Familiarity with manufacturing processes (welding, machining, sheet metal, or assembly) a plus. • Knowledge of ANSI/ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards preferred. • Experience with NetSuite or other ERP systems a plus. Requirements: Benefits • 15 days of PTO on an annual basis • 100% of Employee Premium on HMO Medical Plan, Dental, Vision, and Group Life paid for • Voluntary Life • Aflac Insurance—Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital, Short Term Disability, Cancer, Term Life, Whole Life • 401(k): 4.5% employer match The Company has the discretion to alter or rescind the benefits listed above at any time in accordance with any applicable notice requirements under federal, state, or local law. Work Authorization/Security Clearance Required to be authorized to work lawfully in the US. AAP/EEO Statement VanTran Transformers is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by local, state or federal antidiscrimination law covering employment. Other Duties Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time in the Company’s sole discretion. At-Will Employment Your employment is at-will, which means that either you or the Company may terminate your employment at any time, for any or no reason, with or without cause or notice. Nothing in this job description serves to alter your at-will status, or should be deemed a promise of employment for any specified time period. Disclaimer This job description does not constitute a contract of employment, either express or implied. This job description is for informational purposes only. The Company has the discretion to alter the terms and conditions of employment, including the duties and responsibilities set forth herein, during the course of your employment in accordance with any appliable notice requirements under federal, state, or local law.
See More Details >>Holt Manufacturing is seeking an experienced Product Design Mechanical Engineer for its Waco, Texas location. The Product Design Engineer (Mechanical) will create and analyze structural designs and technical documentation for Holt Manufacturing products. The position is responsible for the management of designs from the initial concept to completion. The incumbent in this position is expected to model the following practices daily: 1) Demonstrate alignment with the company's mission and core business values; 2) Collaborate with key internal/external resources; 3) Participate in ongoing self-development. Essential Functions: • Lead reviews of project technical specifications with collaborating engineering and operations team members to develop/define product concepts • Define structural specifications, loading limits, stress and fatigue points, etc. through analysis • Modify drawings to incorporate customer, manufacturing, and technical changes • Create or modify Holt Manufacturing product designs and technical documents (bill of materials (BOM), product support procedures) • Review and verify product designs and bill of materials with operations to determine project meets safety, manufacturability, and quality objectives • Applies knowledge and experience with the design and manufacturability of a variety of Holt Manufacturing products • Assists in creating or modifying fixturing, jigs, and tooling • Works safely at all times and adheres to all applicable safety policies; complies with all company policies, procedures, and standards • Requires regular and punctual employee attendance • Performs other duties as assigned Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: • Technical skill and knowledge of mechanical engineering, including mechanism, hydraulic, pneumatic, and thermal engineering • Strong SolidWorks design background with a focus on mechanical sheet metal parts, structural weldments, FEA utilizing simulation, and PDM works • Experience in water or fuel tank design and applicable UL standards • Ability to create design and support documentation • Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint); ability to produce information in spreadsheets, documents, forms, tables, and presentations • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal • Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills • Strong organization skills, detailed-oriented, and ability to work on multiple projects • Excellent interpersonal skills to establish working relationships with multiple departments and various levels of the organization • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, coworkers, and customers (internal and external) • Ability to work independently and as part of a team Education and Experience: • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) minimum • Five years of product design experience required, seven years preferred o SolidWorks, ProE, AutoCAD, Ansys, etc. • NRTL standard compliance and certification Supervisory Responsibilities: • None Travel: • Travel is expected for this position, up to 15% Physical Requirements: • This position involves extended periods in a stationary position; additionally, the occasional movement inside the office to access office machinery, file cabinets, etc. • This role frequently communicates with others, must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations Work Environment: • This job is performed in a professional office environment in environmentally controlled conditions as well as the manufacturing environment around fabrication and assembly operations • Essential functions are performed in close physical proximity to other people • Frequently works at a fast pace with unscheduled interruptions Disclaimer: Please note that the above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not to be interpreted as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the incumbents so classified. All incumbents may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities, as needed. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
See More Details >>Embarking on a career in the mechanical trade in Waco, TX, often begins with an apprenticeship, blending practical experience with theoretical knowledge, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships typically span three to four years, demanding extensive training under seasoned professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 59,550 mechanical trade professionals nationwide, with a projected job growth of 11% from 2023 to 2033. Apprentices earn an average of $561 per week in Waco, with an annual overtime average of $29,112. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like HireLevel help aspiring mechanical professionals find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $70,000 annually for experienced professionals.
