Staff Mechanical Design Engineer

ALSO.; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage up to 100% with FSA/H­

One Medical membership

Progyny fertility benefits

Flexible time off

401(k) match

Job summary

ALSO. is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for its Drivetrain and Actuators team in Palo Alto, CA. You will design, test, and integrate drivetrain components for next‑generation EVs, working closely with electrical engineers to merge PCBAs and harnesses into robust mechanical layouts.

You will develop verification plans, leading DFMEAs and iterating prototypes through hands‑on fabrication and lab testing to ensure optimal performance.

Qualifications

• Proficient in 3D/2D CAD and Catia V5/V6
• Experience with CAE tools such as Ansys or Abaqus
• Strong understanding of GD&T and tolerance stack‑up analysis
• Familiarity with PLM systems and BOM structuring
• Engineering changes and deviation processes

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test components in drivetrain and actuators for light EVs
• Perform 3D modeling of components and assemblies (die castings, plastics, sheet metal)
• Create detailed drawing packages and manufacturing instructions
• Collaborate with electrical engineers to integrate PCBAs and wire harnesses
• Coordinate validation with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers
• Develop and execute design verification plans and reports (DVP&R)
• Lead and maintain DFMEAs
• Prototype and iterate designs through hands-on fabrication and testing

Skills

3D CAD

Catia V5/V6

CAE tools

GD&T

PLM systems

BOM management

Tools

Ansys

Abaqus

HyperWorks

Job description

About ALSO.

We’re ALSO, an electric mobility company originally conceived as a part of Rivian. We’re a passionate team of builders, dreamers, doers and innovators, focused on creating entirely new (not to mention, innovative and delightful) vertically integrated, small EVs designed to meet the global mobility challenges of today and tomorrow. Our mission is to inspire everyone to ride ALSO- replacing many local car, truck and SUV miles with ones on vehicles that are more affordable, more enjoyable and 10-50x more efficient.

ALSO is looking for a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join our Drivetrain and Actuators team to help develop and integrate structures, motors, and geartrains for our next-generation vehicles.

What You'll Do

• Design, develop, and test components in drivetrain and actuators for light electric vehicle platforms
• Perform 3D modeling of components and assemblies, including die castings, injection-molded plastics, sheet metal, and fasteners
• Create detailed drawing packages and manufacturing instructions for mechanical parts and assemblies
• Collaborate with electrical engineers to integrate PCBAs, wire harnesses, and electronic systems into mechanical designs
• Coordinate validation efforts with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers
• Develop and execute design verification plans and reports (DVP&R)
• Lead and maintain design failure mode and effects analyses (DFMEAs)
• Prototype and iterate designs using hands-on fabrication and lab testing to validate functionality

What You'll Bring

• Design experience within drivetrain components including gears, bearings, castings, electric motors, thermal systems, and low voltage interconnects
• Strong foundation in material properties, heat treatment, statics, and dynamics
• Proficient in 3D/2D CAD (Catia V5/V6 preferred) and skilled in CAE tools (Ansys, Abaqus, HyperWorks, or similar)
• Strong knowledge of GD&T and tolerance stack-up analysis
• Familiarity with PLM systems, BOM structuring, engineering changes, and deviation processes

The salary for this position ranges from $180,000 - $210,000 per year, depending on experience, qualifications, and location. This role will be based out of Palo Alto, CA.

Perks & Benefits

• Robust health coverage - excellent health, dental and vision insurance covered up to 100% by ALSO with FSA & HSA options
• One Medical membership and dedicated insurance advocates
• Rich fertility and family building benefits with Progyny
• Flexible time off
• 401(k) match

Why ALSO.

We’re passionate about helping the world find a better way to get there- wherever it is you’re headed.

We’re located in the heart of Silicon Valley and have brought together a world-class team from some of the biggest brands in the technology, automotive, cycling, outdoor recreation and retail spaces.

Together we’re working hands-on to imagine, design and build an entirely new solution to a global set of transportation challenges.