This is not a narrowly defined desk-engineering position. The right candidate will enjoy taking an idea from a rough concept through design, fabrication, assembly, testing, troubleshooting, and final implementation. Some days may be spent designing in CAD; others may involve operating a 3D printer, assembling a machine, measuring an existing system, working with outside fabricators, or solving an unexpected mechanical problem.

Formal education is always valuable, but it is not the only path to becoming a strong engineer. We have found that curiosity, initiative, practical ability, and a demonstrated desire to keep learning are equally important. Someone who is genuinely fascinated by how and why machines work - and motivated to build better ones - is likely to thrive in this position. 

• Develop mechanical concepts for custom machines, automation systems, tooling, fixtures, and end-of-arm tooling

• Create 3D CAD models, assemblies, manufacturing drawings, and bills of materials

• Design parts specifically for FDM and resin 3D printing

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot FDM and resin 3D printers

• Design components for laser cutting, sheet-metal fabrication, welding, and outsourced machining

• Select appropriate materials, purchased components, bearings, fasteners, actuators, motors, gearboxes, and other machine elements

• Work directly with machinists, fabricators, suppliers, controls engineers, technicians, and customers

• Assemble, modify, test, and troubleshoot machinery and mechanical systems

• Measure and reverse-engineer existing parts, tools, and equipment

• Evaluate designs for manufacturability, serviceability, durability, safety, and cost

• Support machine installation, commissioning, and field modifications when required

• Improve designs through testing, observation, and practical feedback

• Maintain clear drawings, revision records, bills of materials, and project documentation

• Take ownership of assignments and help move projects from an open-ended problem to a working solution

• Strong curiosity about machinery, manufacturing, automation, robotics, and mechanical systems

• A demonstrated history of designing, building, repairing, modifying, or experimenting with mechanical equipment

• Experience with 3D CAD software and mechanical drawing creation

• Familiarity with FDM or resin 3D printing, or a strong desire to develop those skills

• Understanding of mechanical design fundamentals, tolerances, fits, materials, fasteners, and manufacturing processes

• Experience with machine design, tooling, fixtures, automation equipment, robotics, or manufacturing systems is a significant advantage

• Familiarity with laser-cut parts, sheet metal, weldments, and machined components is beneficial

• Comfortable using hand tools, power tools, measuring instruments, and basic shop equipment

• Able to move comfortably between computer-based design and hands-on machine construction

• Strong troubleshooting skills and the persistence to work through unfamiliar problems

• Able to communicate clearly and collaborate with people from different technical backgrounds

• Organized, dependable, and capable of managing multiple evolving priorities

Candidates who do not meet every traditional qualification are encouraged to apply. We place considerable value on demonstrated ability, creativity, resourcefulness, and the desire to continually learn.

• Bachelor’s or associate degree in mechanical engineering, mechanical design, manufacturing engineering, automation, or a related field.

• Technical-school training in mechanical design, machining, tool and die, fabrication, mechatronics, or a related discipline.

• Significant practical experience designing, building, repairing, or modifying machinery.

• A strong personal portfolio of machines, prototypes, tooling, robotics, 3D-printed products, or other technical projects.

A successful person in this position will:

• Ask thoughtful questions and actively pursue answers.

• Take pride in seeing a machine move from concept to successful operation.

• Balance creative ideas with practical manufacturing considerations.

• Recognize potential problems before they reach the shop floor.

• Be willing to try, test, revise, and improve a design.

• Develop increasing independece and grow to self-direct effectively while using good judgement about when additional input or direction from leadership is warranted.

• Work effectively both collaboratively and independently.

• Adapt comfortably to a small-business environment where priorities, responsibilities, and day-to-day needs will shift as projects develop.

• Communicate professionally and comfortably with customers and other personnel while working at customer facilities. 

• Be comfortable working in a shared, open-office environment as well as active shop and customer environments where noise, equipment operation and other normal workplace activity may be present.

• Treat unfamiliar assignments as opportunities rather than obstacles.

• Contribute positively to a small, collaborative, project-driven engineering team.