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Paul K.
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Paul K.

Automation Systems Engineer (P.E.) | Capital Equipment

Automation Systems Engineer (P.E.) specializing in capital equipment, robotics, and multi-station automation systems. Brought in by companies before system build—or when systems aren’t performing—to define architecture, reduce risk, and ensure real-world performance. Most of my engagements begin with a paid engineering consultation to review system architecture, risks, and manufacturability before fabrication. This early review helps identify design issues, simplify system complexity, and avoid costly rework during build and integration. I typically work on: automation system architecture and layout definition robotic cells and machine tending capital equipment design troubleshooting underperforming automation systems I am frequently engaged prior to system build to reduce technical risk and improve performance outcomes. I am a licensed Professional Mechanical Engineer (P.E.) with over 20 years of experience designing production-ready industrial machinery, automation systems, and complex assemblies, primarily using SolidWorks. Most of my engagements begin with a paid engineering consultation to review the problem, risks, and system architecture before moving into design work. I work with clients who need more than drawings—they need sound engineering judgment, manufacturable designs, and systems that perform reliably in the real world. My background spans concept development through detailed design, vendor coordination, fabrication, installation, and production support. I have led and contributed to high-impact equipment programs with leading machine builders and industrial organizations, including ATS Automation, ACRO Automation, DISA Group, Ixmation, and ITW. My work has supported industries ranging from automated assembly and materials handling to foundry systems, robotics, and custom machinery. What I bring to projects Senior-level mechanical engineering judgment and design ownership Production-focused SolidWorks design (assemblies, mechanisms, tooling, layouts) Strong emphasis on manufacturability, tolerances, and serviceability Experience working directly with fabricators, integrators, and global vendors Ability to identify risks early and simplify complex systems Multiple issued patents in machinery and automation technologies I have worked with clients, customers, and suppliers across the United States, Europe, and Asia, and I am comfortable collaborating remotely or on-site as needed. I am often engaged not just to design equipment, but to help clients think through architecture, tradeoffs, and long-term scalability. Education & Credentials B.S. Mechanical Engineering & MBA – University of Notre Dame M.S. Manufacturing Engineering – Western Michigan University Registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) Adjunct instructor for senior mechanical engineering design projects - Benedictine College Client & Colleague Feedback “Paul is a goal-oriented engineer who brings insight and a tremendous variety of engineering talent and experience to any project. He is an out-of-the-box thinker who stays focused on strategic objectives.” “Paul solved our problems in a highly creative and inspiring way. I recommend him without any reservation.” “Paul brought structure, discipline, and clarity to an unorganized engineering group and left a lasting positive impact.” “Paul is an outstanding design engineer whose work became industry-standard machinery.” If you’re looking for a senior mechanical engineer who can own technical decisions, reduce risk, and deliver practical, production-ready solutions, I’d be glad to discuss your project.

🇺🇸Naperville, United States$150/hr100% JSS4.73 (23)Since Oct 2013

Earnings and projects

MRR
$12k

Last 6 months ÷ 6

World#827 / 412k
🇺🇸Country#404 / 62.1k
Revenue, last 30 days
$13k

Last 6 months: $72k

World#779 / 412k
🇺🇸Country#378 / 62.1k
Total earnings
$638k

Billed in all: $668k

World#1,626 / 412k
🇺🇸Country#621 / 62.1k
Per project
$9.5k

$14k in the last 6 months

World#16,894 / 412k
🇺🇸Country#2,859 / 62.1k
Projects, last 6 months
5
0% fixed100% hourly
World#41,746 / 412k
🇺🇸Country#5,872 / 62.1k
Projects in all
67

Across 72 contracts

26% fixed74% hourly
World#44,983 / 412k
🇺🇸Country#6,922 / 62.1k

Earnings, last 30 days

$668k+$13.2k earned in the last 30 daysBilled in all, before Upwork's fee · drag across the chart to see what was earned in any stretch
$650k$660k$670kOct 8Oct 23Nov 7

Skill rankings: #1 in 2 skills of 9

Rarest: top 0.27% in Product Design, of 6,669. Ranked by MRR among everyone on Upwork with the skill.

  1. 1Contract Manufacturing180 freelancers · 🇺🇸 #1Top 0.56%
  2. 1Onshape80 freelancers · 🇺🇸 #1Top 1%
  3. 2Machine Design278 freelancers · 🇺🇸 #1Top 0.72%
  4. 3Robotics547 freelancers · 🇺🇸 #1Top 0.55%
  5. #83D Printing1,922 freelancers · 🇺🇸 #5Top 0.42%
  6. #9SolidWorks2,691 freelancers · 🇺🇸 #4Top 0.33%
  7. #9Mechanical Engineering2,036 freelancers · 🇺🇸 #7Top 0.44%
  8. #18Product Design6,669 freelancers · 🇺🇸 #8Top 0.27%