Mechanical Hardware Engineer

P&P Optica; Waterloo; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

P&P Optica is seeking a Hardware Team member to develop innovative smart imaging systems. This role involves design, prototyping, and production of spectrometers, with opportunities for career growth in a supportive environment. Ideal candidates will have mechanical design experience and be eager to contribute to cutting-edge technology in the food industry.

Benefits

Flexible schedules

Career growth opportunities

Health benefits

Social engagement activities

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience designing mechanical components.
• Proficient with Solidworks CAD and PDM software.
• Good working knowledge of GD&T.

Responsibilities

• Develop next-generation smart imaging products.
• Innovate and finalize detailed designs.
• Produce documentation for manufacturing and testing.

Skills

Mechanical design

Prototyping

Communication

Problem-solving

Tools

Solidworks

GD&T

UpChain PLM

Confluence

Jira

Job description

About P&P Optica

At PPO, we’re transforming the food industry using cutting-edge Smart Imaging Systems (SIS) technology. Our advanced hardware, software, and machine-learning solutions improve the safety and quality of the food we eat. As a well-funded, scaling company, we offer opportunities for career growth and an inclusive, supportive work culture.

Location

This role is primarily in-person at PPO’s facility in Waterloo, Ontario. Depending on the specific project tasks, there may be an opportunity to occasionally work from home. Note: Occasional travel may be required to support our international customers.

What You’ll Get To Do

The chosen candidate will become a key member of the Hardware Team at P&P Optica. The hardware team is responsible for a wide range of activities including the conception, design, prototyping, and production of our spectrometers and Smart Imaging Systems. This position will focus on supporting the team with ongoing design work for our Smart Imaging Systems, followed in the future by the opportunity to develop new features and innovations that will keep our systems at the forefront of the industry. As part of this mandate, you will be actively involved in developing and proving your own innovative designs and will follow those through testing, production, and final installation.

Responsibilities Include

• Developing next-generation, smart imaging products, systems, and accessories that are safe and reliable.
• Innovating, prototyping, and finalizing detailed designs that meet technical, schedule, cost, and DFX requirements.
• Producing documentation and drawings to support the manufacturing, assembly, and testing of our products and systems.
• Sourcing reliable components that sensibly balance cost, performance, and schedule demands.
  
  

You May Also

• Support production with the assembly and testing of systems.
• Support on-site installation and commissioning of our equipment at our customers’ facilities.
• Work with external suppliers and fabrication shops to ensure our design and quality standards are met.
• Mentor and supervise co-op students
  
  

You at PPO

The Hardware Team is a fast-paced, agile team that interfaces with multiple teams across the organization to help deliver solutions to tough challenges. This team provides a great opportunity to get involved in and learn from multiple functional areas and provides a great environment to quickly develop a diverse set of technical and soft skills.

You want to work for a growing company that focuses on providing innovative solutions to help its customers. You want to be part of a team of motivated people like yourself who are eager to solve challenging problems and learn new skills. You have a positive attitude, care about doing things right, and are motivated by making a positive impact.

Skills And Experience

• 3+ years of experience designing mechanical components and reliable mechanical systems for automation applications.
• Proficient with Solidworks CAD and PDM software for modeling, design analysis, creation of production drawings, and revision control.
• Good working knowledge of GD&T.
• Ability to thoroughly prove your designs through a sensible combination of analysis and testing.
• Good knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and realistically achievable tolerances.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with technical documentation experience.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a fast-paced, multi-disciplinary team.
  
  

Requirements

• Able to travel to the US, Europe, and Australia. A valid passport is required
• Comfortable handling meat and working in a meat processing environment
  
  

Bonus Skills And Experience

• Experience with UpChain PLM, Confluence, and Jira
• Experience working in a start-up company
• Recent experience designing automated production equipment
• Food industry-specific experience is a significant asset
• Additional electrical or mechatronics design knowledge and experience
  
  

If you think this job is a good fit for you but your skills and experience don’t appear to match up to what we’ve listed, please apply! You can tell us in your cover letter why you think you’ll be a great candidate.

Life at PPO

You’ll REALLY love working at PPO. Here’s why:

• Open & Inclusive Culture – We celebrate diversity and collaboration.
• Work-Life Balance – Flexible schedules with dedicated flex days.
• Career Growth – Opportunities to expand your expertise in AI, data science, and imaging.
• Health Benefits – Competitive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Social & Community Engagement – Join team socials, charity fundraisers, and happy hours.
  
  

P&P Optica is committed to supporting a culture of diversity across our organization. Our hiring practices align with human rights laws, guaranteeing every person equal treatment in regard to employment and opportunity for employment, regardless of race, colour, creed/religion, sex, sexual orientation, or marital status. We welcome and encourage applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.