Principal Mechanical Designer

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory; California (MO); On-site; USD 135,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Principal Mechanical Designer to lead a team in developing cutting-edge mechanical systems. This dynamic role involves creating 3D CAD models, mentoring design associates, and applying advanced engineering principles to support diverse projects aligned with the organization's scientific mission. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in mechanical design, strong leadership abilities, and a passion for innovation. Join a forward-thinking environment where your contributions will directly impact groundbreaking research and development efforts. If you thrive in collaborative settings and are eager to make a difference, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of mechanical CAD design experience or a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering.
• Expertise in 3D CAD software and product lifecycle management tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of designers to develop advanced mechanical systems.
• Create 3D CAD models and functional drawings from concepts.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering Principles

3D CAD Design

Interpersonal Skills

Project Management

Cost Estimation

GD&T Standards

Mentoring

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering

20+ Years of Experience

Tools

Creo

SolidWorks

Inventor

Windchill

SAP

Siemens Opcenter

Job description

Berkeley Lab is hiring a Principal Mechanical Designer to support LBNL’s scientific mission in projects like ALS, BELLA, ALS-Upgrade, and DUNE. You will lead a team of Mechanical Design Associates to develop 3D CAD models and detailed drawings from conceptual designs for manufacturing and integration. Utilizing CAD software, product lifecycle management tools, and mechanical engineering principles, you'll ensure successful integration of parts, assemblies, and sub-assemblies. In addition to technical expertise, you'll use interpersonal skills to guide and motivate your team to complete diverse projects.

What You Will Do:

• Lead a team of mechanical designers on multi-disciplinary projects to develop advanced mechanical, mechatronic, or opto-mechanical systems for LBNL’s scientific mission.
• Apply advanced mechanical engineering knowledge to create 3D CAD models and functional drawings from concepts.
• Develop hierarchical model trees for the design team and use advanced GD&T to communicate design intent to manufacturing teams.
• Assist in creating work instructions and provide status updates to peers, leads, or supervisors.
• Mentor and supervise mechanical design associates.

What is Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related field with +15 years of experience, or 17+ years of mechanical CAD design experience.
• Proficient in 3D CAD software (e.g., Creo, SolidWorks, Inventor) and product lifecycle management tools (e.g., Windchill, SAP, Siemens Opcenter).
• Experience leading mechanical design teams and managing complex design efforts for medium to large assemblies.
• Skilled in estimating costs and schedules for mechanical designs.
• Advanced knowledge of mechanical engineering principles, manufacturing practices, and GD&T standards (ASME Y14.5M/ISO 1101).
• Ability to turn conceptual designs (including sketches) into detailed 3D CAD models and 2D drawings.
• Experience collaborating with diverse technical teams to define designs and take a leadership role.
• Expertise in at least three design areas: reverse engineering, cabling/piping layouts, 3D printing, opto-mechanical systems, mechatronics, vacuum systems, structural supports, or design for manufacturing/assembly.
• Ability to mentor junior and senior designers and assist with developing work instructions.
• Knowledge of LBNL engineering design standards, change control processes, and updating/refining those standards.
• Strong oral and written communication skills for interacting with engineers and scientists.

Desired Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related field with 20+ years of experience.
• Experience supervising and mentoring design associates.
• Proficient in Creo Parametric and PTC Windchill.
• Certified in ASME Y14.5M GD&T.

This position is expected to pay a targeted range of $135,000.00 to $165,000.00 annually and has a full salary range of $119,988.00 to $202,488.00 annually. The final salary is dependent upon the candidate’s skills, knowledge, and abilities, including education, certifications, and years of experience.

Notes:

• This is a full-time 2-year, term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. In support of our rich community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.