Mechanical Engineer

Design Observer; Squamish; On-site; CAD 126,000 - 154,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Extended health benefits

Job summary

Design Observer Group in Squamish, BC is seeking an experienced mechanical engineer to lead key R&D initiatives, create new products, and prototype through iterative fabrication in our studio.

You will work with a cross-functional team bridging design intent and production, applying advanced CAD, prototyping, testing, and clear technical documentation. This full-time, on-site role offers extended health benefits and a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of mechanical engineering experience.
• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent practical experience.
• Advanced proficiency in 3D CAD. Assemblies, functional mechanics and surfacing.
• Hands-on prototyping and manufacturing skills (3D printing, hand tools); knowledge of machining, thermoforming, and assembly is a strong asset.
• Proactive problem solver with an open mindset who thrives in R&D cycles.
• Articulate communicator who excels in a feedback-rich, multidisciplinary team environment.

Responsibilities

• Concept Development & Innovation: Drive R&D in materials, hardgoods integration, and novel construction processes.
• CAD & Mechanical Design: Use 3D CAD to architect detailed designs, models, and complex assemblies.
• Prototyping & Hands-On Fabrication: Test, evaluate, and validate design hypotheses through proof-of-concept fabrication and assembly in our studio.
• Testing, Analysis & Iteration: Design and conduct empirical experiments to assess designs and materials.
• Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Partner with in-house and client teams to achieve unified design goals.
• Technical Documentation: Create clear documentation and specifications for construction processes, BOMs, and hand-offs.
• Client Interaction: Prepare and present concepts, designs and products to clients.

Skills

CAD proficiency

Prototyping

Mechanical design

Problem solving

Collaboration

Education

Mechanical Engineering degree

Tools

3D CAD software

3D printing

Machining knowledge

Thermoforming

Job description

This is a unique engineering role where you are encouraged to work collaboratively, think innovatively, and iterate frequently. This role suits an experienced hands-on builder, someone who is curious, and passionate about solving the ‘that can’t be done’ problems.

In this role, you will be directly responsible for leading key aspects of engineering R&D—creating new products, mechanisms, molds, fixtures, through an iterative process. Working closely with a cross-functional team, you will bridge the gap between creative design intent, mechanical functionality, and production execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Concept Development & Innovation: Drive R&D in materials, hardgoods integration, and novel construction processes.
• CAD & Mechanical Design: Utilize 3D CAD software to architect detailed designs, models, and complex assemblies.
• Prototyping & Hands-On Fabrication: Test, evaluate, and validate design hypotheses through proof-of-concept fabrication and assembly in our studio.
• Testing, Analysis & Iteration: Design and conduct empirical experiments to assess your designs and materials under real-world conditions.
• Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Partner with in house and client teams in an open, team-oriented R&D environment to achieve unified design goals.
• Technical Documentation: Create clear documentation and technical specifications for construction processes, assembly steps, BOMs, and manufacturing hand-offs as needed.
• Client Interaction: Preparation and presentation of concepts, designs and products to clients.

Experience Required

• Experience: 7+ years of mechanical engineering experience.
• Education: Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent practical experience.
• Design & Modelling: Advanced proficiency in 3D CAD. Assemblies, functional mechanics and surfacing experience, an asset.
• Prototyping & Manufacturing: Hands-on lab skills (3D printing, hand tools). Knowledge of machining, thermoforming, assembly is a strong asset.
• Mindset & Problem Solving: Proactive problem solver with an open mindset who thrives in R&D cycles.
• Communication & Collaboration: Articulate communicator who excels in a feedbackrich, multidisciplinary team environment.

Compensation and Search Process

This role is based in Squamish, BC and performed solely on site. Compensation will be dependent on experience and qualifications, starting at $140,000CAD (plus extended health benefits), based on full-time employment (per British Columbia’s Employment Standards Act ). Applicants must be willing to undergo a criminal record check.