R&D Mechanical Engineer job description

Job brief

We are looking for a creative and analytical R&D Mechanical Engineer to join our core product development team and drive the evolution of our next-generation technology suite. You will own the mechanical design lifecycle from initial concept and simulation through to functional prototype fabrication and final design verification. Working in our modern innovation lab, you will partner with manufacturing, quality, and systems engineers to ensure our designs are not only cutting-edge but also optimized for cost and manufacturability. If you are passionate about solving complex physics challenges and want to see your designs transition from a CAD screen to the global market, we would love to meet you.

What is a R&D Mechanical Engineer?

An R&D Mechanical Engineer is a specialized technical expert responsible for pushing the boundaries of product innovation through rigorous mechanical design, material science application, and advanced prototyping. By leveraging sophisticated modeling software and empirical testing, an R&D Mechanical Engineer transforms theoretical concepts into high-performance physical systems. Their expertise is critical in bridging the gap between innovative research and scalable manufacturing, ensuring that every new mechanical component meets stringent safety, regulatory, and performance standards.

What does a R&D Mechanical Engineer do?

In this role, an R&D Mechanical Engineer translates complex product requirements into detailed 3D models and engineering drawings using platforms like SolidWorks or Creo. They conduct iterative design cycles, utilizing Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to validate structural integrity before physical prototyping. Beyond design, they collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers and manufacturing specialists, to oversee test-rig development, execute performance validation trials, and refine product architectures based on data-driven feedback loops.

Key responsibilities

• Develop innovative mechanical designs and complex assemblies using advanced 3D CAD software like SolidWorks or Siemens NX for project-specific applications.
• Perform extensive Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and thermal simulations to predict component behavior under various operational, environmental, and stress conditions.
• Fabricate functional prototypes using additive manufacturing, CNC machining, and rapid-tooling techniques to evaluate design performance against technical requirements.
• Conduct rigorous design validation and verification testing, documenting experimental results to support product certification and regulatory compliance documentation.
• Collaborate with supply chain teams to conduct technical evaluations of vendor components, ensuring high-quality sourcing for critical mechanical systems.
• Optimize existing product architectures for improved material efficiency, reduced part count, and enhanced structural durability through design-for-manufacturing (DFM) principles.
• Troubleshoot performance issues identified during bench testing, employing root cause analysis (RCA) to implement corrective design improvements quickly.
• Interface with cross-functional R&D departments to integrate electromechanical sensors and actuators, ensuring seamless alignment between mechanical and firmware interfaces.

Requirements and skills

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or an equivalent field with a focus on product design or kinematics.
• 3+ years of professional experience in an R&D or advanced product development role within the automotive, aerospace, or industrial automation sectors.
• Advanced proficiency in 3D CAD modeling software such as SolidWorks, CATIA, or Creo, with a focus on parametric design and complex surface modeling.
• Solid understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) per ASME Y14.5 standards for precision manufacturing and assembly.
• Hands-on experience with simulation platforms like ANSYS, Abaqus, or COMSOL for structural, thermal, and fluid dynamic analysis.
• Professional certification such as an EIT (Engineer-in-Training) or PE license is highly desirable, demonstrating commitment to professional engineering standards.
• Demonstrated ability to translate high-level product specifications into detailed, manufacturable mechanical solutions that meet specific performance KPIs.
• Expertise in material selection, specifically evaluating metals, thermoplastics, and composites based on structural requirements, environmental exposure, and production costs.

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