Mechanical Engineer

1099 Contractor, Part-Time or Full-Time Engagement

Melbourne, FL (Hybrid as tasking allows)

About This Opportunity

Catania Product Development is seeking a highly capable Mechanical Engineer. This engagement is suited for an experienced engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on environment and prefers autonomy paired with accountability.

You will contribute to technically diverse product development efforts, working from early concept through prototyping and verification. This role is ideal for someone who takes pride in end-to-end ownership and delivering polished, manufacturable solutions.

This role is best suited for individuals who prefer autonomy and are comfortable being accountable for their outcomes.

Core Responsibilities

Product Development Execution

Contribute across the full lifecycle: concept development through prototype, validation, and production-ready design
Translate system and stakeholder requirements into practical mechanical solutions
Conduct trade studies, architectural down-selection, and design refinement
Support verification and validation planning

Engineering & Design

Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and production drawings (SolidWorks)
Apply GD&T appropriately
Develop and manage Bills of Materials (BOMs)
Design mechanisms, actuators, and structural components
Incorporate DFM/DFA and Design-to-Cost principles
Support MVP-focused product development where applicable

Environmental & System Considerations

Design for ruggedized and demanding operating environments
Integrate COTS components into robust mechanical architectures
Consider thermal and structural constraints during design

Build, Fabrication & Vendor Coordination

Participate in hands-on assembly and prototype integration
Coordinate with vendors and fabrication partners
Support manufacturing transitions as needed

Collaboration & Contribution

Communicate clearly and professionally
Manage tasks to stay on scope, schedule, and deliverables independently

Required Qualifications

Technical Foundation

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or similar)
Minimum 5 years of experience in mechanical design and product development
Strong proficiency in SolidWorks (modeling, assemblies, drawings)
Experience in ruggedizing COTS components and designing for harsh environments, including MIL-STD-810 compliant designs
Ability to design technical, functional, and aesthetically refined products with a strong focus on user experience
Experience with GD&T
Experience creating and managing BOMs
Experience designing mechanical mechanisms and actuators
Strong understanding of fabrication processes and materials
Experience applying DFM/DFA and cost-conscious design principles
Experience coordinating with external vendors
Understanding of requirements flow-downs and Minimum Viable Product (MVP)-focused product development
Experience in vendor coordination

Execution & Work Style (Critical)

Demonstrated ability to work independently and own projects end-to-end
Comfortable managing scope, schedule, and technical decisions
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Reliable and self-directed
Able to operate effectively in a flexible, hybrid environment
Hands-on capability in prototype assembly and hardware development

Preferred Qualifications

10+ years of mechanical engineering experience
Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or similar)
Experience in thermal analysis
Manufacturing experience
Experience in sketching, rendering, or industrial design
Artistic or product-form development background

Work Environment & Expectations

Catania Product Development is an innovative product design and engineering services company, focusing on projects in a fast-paced, high-tech, creative environment. Catania operates on trust, autonomy, and accountability. Contractors are engaged to deliver defined outcomes and are expected to manage their work with minimal oversight while maintaining clear and proactive communication.

Projects are challenging, complex, and span across a diverse portfolio in both Commercial and Government sectors. The office is conveniently located next to Groundswell Startups in Melbourne, where you have further exposure to various businesses and startups within the Groundswell network. On-site presence (Melbourne, FL) is required but if tasking allows working in a hybrid role is available.

Additional Information

This is an independent contractor (1099) engagement to hire.
Engagement terms, scope, and duration will be defined in the contract agreement.
This description outlines general responsibilities and does not constitute a contract of employment or guarantee of ongoing engagement.
Responsibilities may evolve based on project needs.

Catania Product Development

Latest Jobs

Mechanical Engineer