Rotary Engine Design Engineer — Hands-on Prototyping

First Search Inc.; Suffield (CT); On-site; USD 110,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

First Search Inc., partnering with LiquidPiston, is seeking a Skunkworks Engineer to join its core engine development team. This hands-on role spans concept to prototype, testing, failure analysis, and redesign, with direct collaboration with hardware builders.

You will design rotary and piston components, create CAD models, perform FEA, and collaborate across manufacturing. A strong background in mechanical engineering, CAD, GD&T, and prototype development is required for a fast-paced R&D

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Strong 3D CAD experience, SolidWorks preferred.
• Experience with structural, stress, and thermal FEA.
• Knowledge of GD&T and metrology.
• Hands-on prototype development and validation.
• Experience with engine durability testing.
• Understanding of DFM and DFA principles.
• Knowledge of machining processes and manufacturing requirements.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop rotary and piston engine components
• Create detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies, and engineering drawings
• Perform structural, stress, and thermal FEA to evaluate strength and performance
• Work directly with technicians and manufacturing partners during prototypes
• Participate in engine assembly, troubleshooting, teardown, and development
• Investigate component failures and perform root-cause analysis
• Interpret engine test results and drive design improvements
• Participate in design reviews and make recommendations
• Apply GD&T and metrology to support design and evaluation
• Apply DFM and DFA principles to develop manufacturable designs
• Consider machining processes, tolerances, materials, and manufacturing requirements
• Collaborate with manufacturing, test, controls, quality, and other teams
• Manage multiple priorities as testing and development needs change
• Take ownership from concept through prototype, testing, failure analysis, and final solution

Skills

GD&T

Metrology

FEA

Prototype validation

Root-cause analysis

Troubleshooting

Design reviews

DFM

DFA

R&D in fast-paced

Education

Mechanical Engineering degree

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA

NX

Job description

First Search Inc., partnering with LiquidPiston, is seeking a Skunkworks Engineer to join its core engine development team. This hands-on role spans concept to prototype, testing, failure analysis, and redesign, with direct collaboration with hardware builders.

You will design rotary and piston components, create CAD models, perform FEA, and collaborate across manufacturing. A strong background in mechanical engineering, CAD, GD&T, and prototype development is required for a fast-paced R&D