Aquatics/Buoyancy Engineer (CAD/AI)

Paradigm 3i Solutions; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 28,413 - 40,467; Part time

Job summary

A leading defense manufacturing company based in Tampa is seeking an entry-level candidate for a hybrid CAD design role. The role involves functional design and certification inputs for horizontal buoyancy and aquatic safety gear. Candidates should have experience in CAD design, particularly with SolidWorks/Fusion, and familiarity with UL 12402/USCG standards. The position requires on-site sessions along with remote work and offers $25/hr for approximately 20 hours a week, under a temporary contract agreement.

Qualifications

• Experience in designing PFDs or aquatic safety gear.
• Ability to translate requirements into CAD and prototypes.

Responsibilities

• Own functional design and test evidence for horizontal buoyancy.
• Validate materials and architecture choices for durability.
• Provide certification inputs for USCG/UL dossier.

Skills

CAD (SolidWorks/Fusion)

AI-assisted design/rendering

FEA/CFD knowledge

Understanding of UL 12402/USCG requirements

Job description

Mission: Own the functional design and test evidence for horizontal buoyancy and continuous‑wear comfort/safety; translate requirements into CAD, prototypes, and data that stand up to UL/USCG scrutiny.

• CAD package & drawings (assemblies, tolerances) suitable for prototyping and DFM.
• Materials & architecture choices validated for salt/chlorine, temperature, and durability; packaging for sensors/AI modules.
• Hydro/buoyancy evidence: test protocols aligned to Paradigm Performance Standards and UL 12402 benchmarks; data collection, analysis, and reports.
• Prototype & BOM with revision control; iterate with Bay Innovators; support human‑factors fit and wear‑rate goals.
• Certification inputs: provide calculations, test results, and narratives for the USCG/UL dossier.

Qualifications:

• CAD (SolidWorks/Fusion) and comfort with AI‑assisted design/rendering; basic FEA/CFD a plus.
• Prior work on PFDs or aquatic safety gear; familiarity with UL 12402/USCG requirements.

Contract window: Jan 15 – May 15, 2026 (120 days)

Hybrid/Remote: Tampa on‑site sessions + field tests

Engagement: 1099 (no benefits) under BAA/NDA/Business Protection Agreement

Rate: $25/hr / 20 hrs/week

Seniority level

• Entry level

Employment type

• Temporary

Job function

• Engineering and Information Technology

Industries

• Defense and Space Manufacturing