Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

Metal additive manufacturing technology is evolving quickly from a niche tool used primarily in university research to an industry tool for developing and manufacturing products faster and more cheaply. Xact Metal, headquartered in State College, PA, is making metal additive manufacturing systems affordable for small- to mid-sized companies that need prototyping, tooling, and part manufacturing but could not previously afford metal powder-bed fusion systems.

The Mechanical Engineer will design new printers and associated components and improve their manufacturing by applying engineering principles and procedures, standard test methods and instrumentation, and knowledge of material characteristics and manufacturing best practices, to ensure the company produces and delivers world-class 3D printing systems in accordance with customer/project specifications, budget, quality control standards, and delivery expectations.

Overall responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Design, evaluate, and validate mechanical, electromechanical, and opto-mechanical products and systems by developing and testing specifications and methods.
• Study customer requirements, research and test manufacturing and assembly methods, and solicit observations from printer users.
• Develop manufacturing processes by designing and modifying equipment to fabricate, build, assemble, and install components.
• Ensure system and product quality by designing testing methods, testing finished product and system capabilities, and confirming fabrication, assembly, and installation processes.
• Prepare product reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing information and trends.
• Provide engineering information by answering questions and requests.
• Maintain product compliance with government regulations, including laser safety, CE, etc.
• Keep equipment operational by coordinating maintenance and repair services; following manufacturer's instructions and established procedures; and requesting special services.
• Complete projects by training and guiding technicians.
• Assist with purchasing materials and equipment, and ensure production procedures use materials/inventory efficiently.
• Contribute to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed.

Minimum job entry requirements include:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or equivalent experience.
• Experience working in mechanical engineering.
• Experience with product development, including hands-on prototyping, concept development, and mechatronics system integration.
• Superior computer skills, with solid experience in CAD (SolidWorks preferred) and CAE/FEA tools.

Desired experience, knowledge, skills & abilities (these are a plus, not required!):

• Passion for 3D printing.
• Work experience in Additive Manufacturing/3D Printing.
• Hands-on experience and passion for machine and system design.

Physical requirements & work environment:

• Dual Settings: Work is primarily performed in an office environment, with regular duties conducted in a light manufacturing setting.
• Environmental Hazards: Regular exposure to loud noises and hazardous materials, including laser technology.
• Safety Adherence: Strict adherence to safety protocols and the consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required.

Physical demands:

• Stationary Work: Ability to remain in a stationary position for up to 50% of the work day.
• Mobility & Stamina: Ability to bend, climb stairs, and stand or walk continuously for up to 75% of the work day.
• Workspace Navigation: Freedom of movement to navigate within and between the office and production areas to access files, machinery, and equipment.
• Repetitive Motion: Frequent engagement in repetitive motions associated with prolonged computer use and manufacturing tasks.
• Lifting Capacity: Ability to regularly lift, maneuver, and move objects weighing up to 5 pounds, and occasionally lift or move objects up to 20 pounds.

Dexterity & tools:

• Manual Dexterity: Fine motor skills to handle, manipulate, control, feel, and adjust objects, with the ability to assemble parts quickly and accurately.
• Hand Strength: Sufficient hand strength to effectively operate hand tools, small safety equipment, and fine components.

Sensory & communication abilities:

• Visual Acuity: Strong close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, focus adjustment, and the ability to distinguish between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Auditory Skills: Ability to hear and differentiate between sounds, including the ability to focus on a single sound source amid background manufacturing noise.
• Communication: Ability to speak clearly to ensure listener comprehension and accurately understand others' speech.

To apply: Simply send your cover letter and resume to apply for this job. Tell us why you are interested in this position and your desired salary. Include your resume and then click submit. It's that easy to apply!

We are accepting cover letters and resumes immediately! We're looking for an excellent new team member, so the position will remain open until filled.

• Applicants must be authorized to work full-time in the United States. The company does not sponsor work visas.
• Local applicants or those who can report to work punctually at the company's office in State College, PA, during normal work hours (and as needed) to meet business requirements are encouraged to apply.

The company reserves the right to alter, change, modify, and/or terminate this job posting. Xact Metal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please email with the nature of your request and your contact information. The Company reserves the right to alter, change, modify, and/or terminate this posting without notice or obligation. No recruiters, please; applicants only.