This is a remote, project-based role for mechanical engineers with 2-4 years of hands-on experience in CAD and mechanical design. You will complete tasks spanning mechanical design, engineering analysis, technical documentation, and product development support. Work is over the next 2-3 weeks, asynchronous, and assigned on a project-by-project basis, with an expected commitment of 10-20 hours per week for the projects you accept. This position offers exceptional pay, exposure to real-world engineering challenges, and a strong addition to your professional portfolio.
Why Apply
- Flexible Time Commitment - Work on your schedule while tackling meaningful engineering challenges
- Startup Exposure - Work directly with an early-stage Y Combinator-backed company, gaining hands-on experience that sets you apart
- Exceptional Pay - Project-based pay up to $100/hour
- Portfolio Building - Gain experience solving complex, real-world mechanical design and engineering problems
- Professional Growth - Sharpen your skills on varied, challenging design tasks across industries and applications
Responsibilities
- Create, review, and iterate on mechanical designs and CAD models for components, assemblies, and systems
- Develop detailed engineering drawings, BOMs, and technical documentation to manufacturing standards
- Perform engineering analysis including stress, tolerance, and design for manufacturability (DFM) assessments
- Support product development workflows from concept through prototype and into production-ready design
- Document design decisions, assumptions, and methodologies clearly and reproducibly
Required Qualifications
- 2-4 years of professional experience in mechanical engineering, product design, or a related field
- Strong proficiency in at least one major CAD platform (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Fusion 360, CATIA, NX, or equivalent)
- Demonstrated ability to produce detailed mechanical designs and engineering drawings to industry standards
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently on technical tasks
- Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, or a related engineering field
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with FEA or simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus, SolidWorks Simulation, or similar)
- Familiarity with manufacturing processes including CNC machining, injection molding, sheet metal fabrication, or additive manufacturing
- Experience working in hardware startups, product development firms, or fast-paced engineering environments
- Background in systems integration, mechatronics, or electromechanical product design
About AfterQuery
AfterQuery is a research lab investigating the boundaries of artificial intelligence through novel datasets and experimentation. We believe great AI comes from exceptional, human-generated data.
We're backed by top investors, including Y Combinator and Box Group, and support all leading AI labs.