Mechanical Design Engineer

Compotech, Inc.; Brewer (ME); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Compotech, Inc. in Maine is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer (MDE) to transform complex requirements into manufacturable solutions for defense programs.

You will develop 3D CAD models, analyze designs, prototype, test, and validate mechanical systems, collaborating with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain teams. The ideal candidate has strong SolidWorks skills, experience with FEA, and a track record of delivering reliable, cost-effective designs within schedule

Qualifications

• B.S. in mechanical or structural engineering; M.S. is a plus.
• Strong CAD skills with SolidWorks and complex assemblies.
• Experience with FEA, materials engineering, and design for manufacturing.
• Excellent communication and ability to handle multiple projects.
• 1–8+ years of relevant experience.

Responsibilities

• Plan, manage, execute analysis, design, and testing for programs.
• Develop mechanical designs, 3D models, drawings, and technical documentation.
• Perform engineering calculations and finite element analyses.
• Support prototype fabrication, assembly, integration, testing, and validation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement DFx and design improvements.
• Provide progress reports to project managers, clients, and sponsors.
• Identify and interact with vendors and suppliers.

Skills

Communication skills

Multitasking

Teamwork

Independent work

Education

B.S. in Mechanical Engineering

M.S. preferred

Tools

SolidWorks

Job description

Description

Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer (MDE)

Business Unit: Expeditionary Solutions Business Unit (EBU)

Department: Engineering and Product Development (EPD)

Sub Department: Design Engineering (ENG)

Department Code: EBU-EPD-ENG

Summary: A Mechanical Design Engineer (MDE) at Compotech is a technically rigorous problem-solver who transforms complex requirements into innovative, manufacturable products and practical engineering solutions. They bring strong analytical skills and hands‑on engineering judgment to the design, development, analysis, prototyping, testing, and validation of mechanical systems, components, and assemblies—often within the demanding standards of defense environments. Detail‑oriented yet innovative, they balance performance, reliability, cost, manufacturability, and schedule while collaborating closely with cross‑functional teams across engineering, manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and project management. The Mechanical Design Engineer is proactive, adaptable, and committed to delivering high quality products throughout the entire product development lifecycle—from concept and prototyping through production and sustainment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Plans, manages, executes, and reports on analysis, design, and testing aspects for Compotech’s various programs.


• Develops mechanical designs, 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and technical documentation for components, assemblies, and integrated systems.


• Performs engineering calculations, tolerance analyses, and finite element analyses to support design decisions.


• Supports prototype fabrication, assembly, integration, testing, troubleshooting, and design validation.


• Reviews processing methods and materials and develops and recommends product and design improvements.


• Participates in providing weekly, quarterly, and monthly progress reports to the project manager as well as to clients and sponsors.


• Writes technical reports and papers detailing research and development activities for clients, and sponsors.


• Supports the development of written proposals through feasibility assessment of proposed design(s).


• Researches, recommends, and determines specifications for purchase of equipment, materials, and supplies for use in projects.


• Identifies and interacts with various vendors and manufacturers.


• Collaborates with manufacturing engineering to implement Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles.


• Supports engineering change requests, configuration management, and product lifecycle activities.


• Identifies, assesses, monitors, and communicates product safety, technical, and related project risks; develops and implements mitigation actions within assigned authority and escalates significant or unresolved risks.


• May occasionally travel to job sites for support of training on systems, technical presentations, testing events, etc.

Requirements

• B.S. in related Engineering field (mechanical or structural focus). M.S. is a plus.


• Experience and/or coursework in some of the following areas: composite analysis, finite element modeling, engineering design, advanced mechanics of materials.


• Excellent oral and written communication skills.


• Demonstrated ability to handle multiple projects and constant deadlines.


• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment with Compotech’s team of, engineers, technicians, interns, and contractors.


• Excellent 3D computer aided design (CAD) skills using SolidWorks®.


• o Experience with complex assemblies, multi‑body parts, drawings, and equations.


• Experience in conceptual design and design modifications to meet budgetary constraints.


• Experience with design, integration, and management of complex systems.


• 1 to 8+ years of relevant experience.

Preferred Education and/or Experience

• Experience with design for manufacturing (DFM) practices and processes.


• Experience with design of composite structures and materials.


• Experience with computer aided machining (CAM) design and principles.


• Experience with additive manufacturing.


• Experience with engineering simulation tools (FEA, CFD, or motion analysis).


• Experience working within ISO 9001 or other regulated manufacturing environments.


• Engineering Intern Certificate or Professional Engineering licensure.