We are seeking an experienced Staff Mechanical Design to lead the design and development of fixtures, jigs, and tooling to support manufacturing, testing, and engineering operations. This role requires strong hands-on design capability, deep knowledge of design for manufacturability (DFM), and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
The candidate is expected to take full ownership of assignments, solve design problems independently, communicate effectively with cross-functional teams, and deliver practical, manufacturable solutions from concept through release.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop fixtures, jigs, tooling, and mechanical support equipment for manufacturing and engineering applications.
- Create detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, BOMs, and design documentation using CAD tools.
- Ensure designs meet requirements for functionality, manufacturability, cost, quality, safety, and reliability.
- Apply strong DFM/DFA principles to optimize designs for machining, fabrication, assembly, and production use.
- Work closely with manufacturing, process, test, quality, and engineering teams to understand needs and convert them into practical design solutions.
- Select appropriate materials, tolerances, surface finishes, and standard components based on application and manufacturing methods.
- Support prototype builds, design reviews, debugging, and design improvements based on shop floor feedback.
- Coordinate with internal and external fabrication suppliers to ensure designs are producible and delivered on schedule.
- Drive problem-solving for fixture performance, durability, ergonomics, and usability.
- Manage multiple projects independently and complete tasks with little or no day-to-day oversight.
- Provide technical guidance and share best practices with junior team members when needed.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field, or equivalent practical experience.
- More than 15 years of experience in mechanical design, with strong focus on fixture, jig, and tooling design.
- Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes such as machining, sheet metal fabrication, welding, assembly, and precision mechanical components.
- Strong understanding of design for manufacturability (DFM) and practical engineering design.
- Proficiency in CAD software for 3D modeling and detailed drawing creation.
- Ability to independently develop designs from concept to final release.
- Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
- Good communication skills, with the ability to clearly work with engineers, technicians, suppliers, and manufacturing teams.
- Ability to balance technical requirements, cost, schedule, and manufacturability.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience designing tooling or fixtures for high-volume manufacturing, test processes, or automation environments.
- Familiarity with tolerance stack-up, GD&T, and mechanical design standards.
- Experience working directly with machine shops, suppliers, and contract manufacturers.
- Knowledge of fixture validation, ergonomic considerations, and continuous improvement in production environments.
