Camera Module Design Engineer - Mechanical & Prototyping

Skydio, Inc.; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Skydio, Inc. is seeking a Product Design Engineer to design, prototype, test, and refine the mechanical systems for camera modules.

You will create CAD models and drawings, prototype concepts, and collaborate with mechanical, optical, and electrical teams to ensure reliable, production-ready solutions. You’ll build prototypes, run lab tests, analyze results, and help scale designs for manufacturing while maintaining a strong focus on precision, quality, and environmental resilience in fast-paced

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or related discipline, or equivalent practical experience.
• Experience applying mechanical-engineering fundamentals and analytical problem-solving to physical products or electromechanical systems.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD and the ability to create clear mechanical drawings; CATIA strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, materials, and common manufacturing processes.
• Experience with rapid prototyping methods (3D printing, CNC machining) and hands-on assembly.
• Experience designing parts for injection molding, CNC machining, metal forming or casting.
• Strong laboratory skills and ability to use mechanical measurement/test equipment.
• Ability to document test methods, analyze data, and communicate conclusions clearly.
• Detail-oriented, methodical, and able to debug, characterize, and perform failure analysis.
• Ability to collaborate across mechanical, optical, electrical, reliability, manufacturing, and supplier teams.
• Curiosity, initiative, and willingness to learn in a fast-paced product-development environment.
• A strong interest in cameras, precision mechanisms, robotics, drones, or imaging systems.
• Obtaining FAA Part 107 certification within 60 days is encouraged/required for some roles.

Responsibilities

• Create 3D CAD models and production-ready 2D drawings for camera parts, assemblies, test equipment, and related mechanical systems.
• Support mechanical design and integration of camera modules, lenses, image sensors, actuators, thermal solutions, electronics, flex circuits, seals, and structures.
• Design and build prototypes to evaluate concepts and mechanical architectures.
• Design test jigs, fixtures, and measurement setups for development, characterization, and validation.
• Perform tolerance analyses to evaluate fit, alignment, and mechanical performance.
• Prototype components and assemblies using 3D printing, CNC machining, and hands-on assembly.
• Support finite element analysis and interpretation of results.
• Plan and conduct laboratory testing, analyze results, and communicate findings.
• Characterize components for dimensions, torque, force, stiffness, and thermal performance.
• Investigate failures and develop corrective actions.
• Support reliability and optical testing, including setup, data collection, and failure analysis.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and external vendors to improve designs.
• Contribute throughout product development from concept to mass production.

Skills

3D CAD

CATIA

GD&T

Rapid prototyping

Laboratory testing

Engineering documentation

Cross-functional collaboration

Camera systems

Robotics interest

Education

Master's degree in mechanical engineering

Tools

CATIA CAD tool

Job description

Skydio, Inc. is seeking a Product Design Engineer to design, prototype, test, and refine the mechanical systems for camera modules.

You will create CAD models and drawings, prototype concepts, and collaborate with mechanical, optical, and electrical teams to ensure reliable, production-ready solutions. You’ll build prototypes, run lab tests, analyze results, and help scale designs for manufacturing while maintaining a strong focus on precision, quality, and environmental resilience in fast-paced