Mechanical Systems Engineer Automation

Are you looking to join a high-growth automation team with a scrappy, startup energy? Are you an ambitious engineer who wants to solve complex product-flow challenges from first principles?

Sprout People are partnering with Punchbowl Automation to find their next Mechanical Systems Engineer. If you are ready to translate complex customer requirements into high-impact, real-world machine architecture, this is your opportunity.

The opportunity

Punchbowl Automation is looking for a Mechanical Systems Engineer to translate customer requirements for product and material flow into clear technical concepts, layouts, and machine configurations.

Reporting to the Lead Automation Project Engineer, you will be the critical link bridging early-stage customer problems and high-level machine design. You will not just be tweaking existing CAD models; you will be applying whole-machine systems thinking to architect custom solutions from concept to commissioning.

About Punchbowl Automation
Punchbowl Automation is a fast-growing division within a stable, family-owned group, operating with the dynamic energy of an ambitious tech startup. They empower primary and produce sectors to streamline their operational performance through automated machinery, packaging systems, and material handling solutions.

What you will do

• Design and system architecture: Model product flow, accumulation, and throughput rates to create practical concept layouts and foundational machine architecture.
• Customer and solution scoping: Visit customer sites to get to the root of operational needs and engineer practical, highly reliable automation systems.
• Cross-functional collaboration: Partner with mechanical, electrical, and software teams while supporting prototype development, proof-of-concept testing, and technical sign-offs.
• Project delivery: Identify technical risks, participate in FAT/SAT and commissioning, and troubleshoot performance issues in the field.
• Continuous improvement and mentorship: Drive product standardization initiatives and mentor junior engineers on system-level thinking.

What you will bring

We are looking for someone thorough and energetic, with a knack for whole-machine systems thinking. You should be an excellent communicator who is comfortable defending engineering trade-offs and rolling up your sleeves in a collaborative team environment.

• 7+ years of experience in industrial machine design, mechanical design, or special purpose machinery design.
• Strong capability in product flow analysis, throughput modeling, and layout development using 3D CAD tools.
• Practical workshop, manufacturing, and hands-on commissioning knowledge.
• Proven track record of translating customer requirements into solid engineering recommendations and proposals.
• Analytical approach with an ability to balance speed, footprint, reliability, and cost.
• Experience with postharvest, fresh produce, or packaging machinery is a plus.
• Familiarity with PLC/HMI control systems or robotics/vision systems is also a plus.

What is in it for you?

This is not just another engineering job; it is a chance to build real, physical systems that directly solve critical bottleneck issues for industrial customers.

• Make a real impact: See your initial concepts turn into fully operational, automated machinery deployed on-site.
• Join an expert team: Work in a tight-knit, highly supportive environment where culture, teamwork, and a "can-do" attitude are paramount.
• Grow with the company: Enjoy flexible working arrangements alongside a fast-growing company structure that offers broad exposure across end-to-end design lifecycles.
• The full package:
• Competitive salary: $110,000 – $115,000 p.a.
• Great benefits: Medical insurance package included.
• True flexibility: Flexible start and finish times to support work-life balance.
• The right tools: Laptop, mobile phone, and all required tools provided.