Mechanical Engineer I, Prototype & Vehicle Systems

Stefanini, Inc; Cerritos (CA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Motive Workforce is seeking an entry-level Mechanical Engineer I to support prototype development and vehicle integration for locomotive electrification programs in Cerritos, CA. This hands-on role connects mechanical design with prototype fabrication, testing, and shop-floor execution.

Responsibilities include designing and revising layouts for cooling systems, building and testing prototype hardware, and coordinating with electrical teams on high-voltage packaging.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Zero to two years of relevant engineering experience.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks, Creo, NX, or a comparable CAD platform.
• Working knowledge of mechanical drawings, tolerances, and GD&T.
• Familiarity with thermal management and basic structural analysis.
• Comfortable working in both engineering and shop environments.
• Able to support hands-on prototype assembly, instrumentation, and testing.
• Strong communication and cross-functional coordination skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and revise mechanical layouts for cooling systems, radiators, fans, ducting, structural mounts, brackets, and auxiliary enclosures
• Build, instrument, and test prototype hardware
• Support bench testing and vehicle-level integration
• Create and maintain CAD models and engineering drawings using SolidWorks, Creo, or NX
• Perform fit checks, tolerance stack-ups, and GD&T reviews
• Coordinate DFM and DFA reviews with fabrication and machine shop vendors
• Investigate prototype and field failures, then support design corrections
• Coordinate with electrical and controls engineers on high-voltage component packaging, harness routing, and thermal clearances
• Support rapid design iterations based on test results and project requirements

Skills

CAD software

SolidWorks

Creo

NX

GD&T

Thermal management

Prototype testing

Cross-functional coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Job Details

Renewable Energy

Mechanical Engineer I, Prototype & Vehicle Systems Cerritos,CA Posted:8/17/2026 Job Description Job ID#: 86835

Job Category: Renewable Energy

Position Type: Contract

Duration: 2-4 months

Shift: 1

Motive Workforce is seeking an entry-level Mechanical Engineer to support prototype development and vehicle integration for locomotive electrification programs. This hands‑on position connects mechanical design with prototype fabrication, testing, and shop‑floor execution.

Responsibilities

• Design and revise mechanical layouts for cooling systems, radiators, fans, ducting, structural mounts, brackets, and auxiliary enclosures
• Build, instrument, and test prototype hardware
• Support bench testing and vehicle-level integration
• Create and maintain CAD models and engineering drawings using SolidWorks, Creo, or NX
• Perform fit checks, tolerance stack-ups, and GD&T reviews
• Coordinate DFM and DFA reviews with fabrication and machine shop vendors
• Investigate prototype and field failures, then support design corrections
• Coordinate with electrical and controls engineers on high‑voltage component packaging, harness routing, and thermal clearances
• Support rapid design iterations based on test results and project requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related discipline
• Zero to two years of relevant engineering experience
• Proficiency with SolidWorks, Creo, NX, or a comparable CAD platform
• Working knowledge of mechanical drawings, tolerances, and GD&T
• Familiarity with thermal management and basic structural analysis
• Comfortable working in both engineering and shop environments
• Able to support hands‑on prototype assembly, instrumentation, and testing
• Strong communication and cross‑functional coordination skills

Preferred Experience

• Automotive, motorsport, rail, or vehicle‑integration experience
• Exposure to high‑voltage or electric vehicle systems
• FEA experience
• GD&T certification or formal training
• Experience with 3D printing, sheet metal, machining, fixtures, or rapid prototyping

This position will begin as a project‑based contract and may convert to direct employment based on project demand, performance, and business needs.

Pay Rate: $45.00 per hour

Employment Type: Project‑Based Contract, Potential Contract‑to‑Hire

Start Date: ASAP