Mechanical Engineer
Job Title: Mechanical Engineer (CAD + Robotics)
Department: [Engineering / Product Development / R&D]
Reports To: [Engineering Manager / Lead Mechanical Engineer]
Location: Santa Monica, CA (On-site)
Employment Type: [Full-time]
Salary: $90,000 - $100,000 Annually
Experience Level: 1+ years
Benefits: Full Comprehensive Health Package
PTO: Flexible
About the Role
We are seeking a hands-on Mechanical Engineer with 1+ years of experience to support the design and development of our mechanical and robotic systems. This role is ideal for an engineer who is highly proficient in CAD (SolidWorks preferred), comfortable moving designs from concept to prototype, and has working knowledge of robotics systems (mechanisms, actuators, sensors, integration concepts). You’ll collaborate closely with cross-functional teammates in electrical, software, and manufacturing to deliver reliable, buildable solutions that meet project performance and schedule needs.
Key Responsibilities
Design & CAD Development
- Create and maintain 3D CAD models and detailed 2D drawings using SolidWorks.
- Produce mechanical design documentation, including assemblies, manufacturing drawings, tolerances, and BOMs.
- Apply DFM/DFA principles to improve manufacturability, reduce costs, and ease assembly.
Robotics & Mechanism Support
- Support mechanical design of robotic subsystems (e.g., linkages, frames, mounts, end-effectors, drivetrain components).
- Assist with integrating mechanical designs with actuators (motors/servos), sensors, bearings, gears, belts, and linear motion components.
- Collaborate with software/electrical teams to ensure designs meet integration and packaging constraints.
Prototyping, Testing, and Iteration
- Build or support prototypes (3D prints, machined parts, off-the-shelf components) and refine designs through rapid iteration.
- Develop test plans and perform hands-on evaluation of mechanical assemblies for fit, function, performance, and reliability.
- Help identify root causes of mechanical failures and implement corrective design changes.
Manufacturing & Vendor Collaboration
- Work with internal manufacturing teams and/or external suppliers to source parts and validate fabrication approaches.
- Support assembly documentation (work instructions, exploded views, assembly drawings) and first-article inspections as needed.
Project Execution & Documentation
- Track work against project goals, timelines, and design requirements.
- Maintain engineering documentation and revision control using [PDM/PLM system, if applicable].
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent practical experience).
- 1+ years of mechanical engineering experience (industry, co-op, internship plus post-grad experience, or equivalent).
- Proficiency in SolidWorks for part and assembly design, drawings, and revisions.
- Working knowledge of mechanical design fundamentals (materials, fasteners, fits, tolerances, basic stress/deflection concepts).
- Familiarity with robotics-related mechanical components (actuation, sensors, transmissions, linear motion, mechanism design concepts).
- Ability to interpret and create manufacturing drawings and collaborate effectively across disciplines.
- Strong problem-solving mindset and comfort working in a fast-paced, iterative development environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience designing or integrating robotic systems (autonomous platforms, automation equipment, or mechatronic products).
- Exposure to GD&T and tolerance stack-up basics.
- Experience with prototyping tools/processes: 3D printing, machining, sheet metal, laser cutting, adhesives, etc.
- Familiarity with FEA or basic simulation tools (SolidWorks Simulation or equivalent).
- Understanding of robotics software concepts such as ROS, basic kinematics, or motion systems (helpful, not required).
- Experience with PDM/PLM tools (e.g., SolidWorks PDM, Arena, Windchill).
Core Competencies
- Practical mechanical design judgment (buildable designs, clean assemblies, thoughtful tolerances)
- Strong collaboration and communication with cross-functional partners
- Organized approach to documentation and revision control
- Ownership mindset: sees issues through from discovery to resolution
- Ability to balance speed and quality in iterative product development
What Success Looks like in this Role
- Designs are clearly documented, manufacturable, and integrate cleanly with electrical/software subsystems.
- Prototypes are delivered on schedule with rapid learning cycles and measurable improvements each iteration.
- Mechanical issues are diagnosed quickly with well-reasoned corrective actions.
- CAD and drawings are maintained with strong version control and minimal rework downstream.
Work Environment/ Physical Requirements
- Occasional hands-on work in a lab or manufacturing space (assembling prototypes, testing).
- Ability to lift heavy objects and use basic hand tools as needed.
- Might need to travel for work
Other Requirements
- Must be commuting distance of Santa Monica, CA.
- Must be a US Citizen or valid green card holder.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary Range: $90K-100K (depending on experience and location)
- Benefits: Full Medical/dental/vision, Flexible PTO, flexible schedule, professional development, etc.
Equal Opportunity Environment
Hidonix Industries is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
