Senior / Principal Mechanical Engineer

Shelby American, Inc.; Gardner (MA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior or Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead the design of precision opto-mechanical systems for diverse applications. This role emphasizes ownership of product development, focusing on manufacturability and quality assurance. The ideal candidate will mentor engineers, drive design principles, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure product excellence. If you are passionate about engineering and eager to make a significant impact in a dynamic environment, this opportunity is tailored for you.

Qualifications

• 7-12 years of experience in medical device or defense industries.
• Strong CAD skills and understanding of GD&T and tolerance analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of precision mechanical systems.
• Mentor engineers and ensure product compliance with regulations.

Skills

CAD Modeling

Tolerance Analysis

Design for Manufacturability (DFM)

Design for Assembly (DFA)

Clear Communication

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Advanced degree

Tools

SolidWorks

EPDM

Job description

Description

POC is seeking an experienced Senior or Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead the design and development of precision opto-mechanical and electro-mechanical systems for medical, defense, and industrial applications. This role includes ownership of product development from concept through production transfer, with a strong emphasis on design for manufacturability (DFM), design for assembly (DFA), and documentation for manufacturing and quality assurance. The position builds on foundational competencies developed at the Junior Engineer level and expands them into leadership, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor engineers in the design of high-precision mechanical assemblies and fixtures for optical and electro-optical products.
• Drive DFM/DFA and poka-yoke principles throughout the design process.
• Conduct and document tolerance stack-up and statistical analysis to guide robust fixture and product design.
• Develop and review production-ready documentation including 3D models, 2D drawings (GD&T), BOMs, test and validation protocols (IQ/OQ/PQ), and manufacturing work instructions (WI).
• Oversee fixture design for volume production—emphasizing repeatability, durability, ergonomics, and automation compatibility.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including optical, electrical, quality, and manufacturing.
• Interface with suppliers and customers to ensure product compliance and manufacturability.

Requirements

• Strong CAD modeling and detailing skills; experience with SolidWorks and EPDM preferred.
• Deep understanding of GD&T, tolerance analysis, and dimensioning per ANSI/ISO standards.
• Experience in regulated industries (e.g., medical or aerospace/defense) and documentation for FDA, ISO 13485.
• Hands-on experience designing fixtures and tooling for production.
• Familiarity with manufacturing methods and material behaviors: metals, plastics, adhesives, and composites.
• Documentation control knowledge (MIL-STD-973, ISO 9001/13485).

Desired Skills

• Familiarity with adhesives, plastic-to-metal/plastic bonds, ultrasonic welding, snap fits.
• Experience with thermal and FEA analysis.
• Skilled in inspection tools and techniques, including CMM and ESS.
• Exposure to additive manufacturing, laser processes, molding, and rapid prototyping.
• Familiarity with configuration management, metadata use, and ECO processes.

General Skills

• Clear verbal and written communication.
• Strong documentation and detail orientation.
• Self-directed, collaborative team player.
• Proven leadership in engineering project delivery and mentorship.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering required; advanced degree a plus.
• 7–12 years of relevant industry experience in medical device, defense, or precision manufacturing environments.