Mechanical Engineer

Switched Source is a Chicago-based small business, building the next generation of power flow control technologies to enhance the reliability, efficiency, and distributed generation hosting capacity of the electric distribution grid.  

Our team consists of top performers working in an entrepreneurial atmosphere to solve the most pressing issues in electricity distribution: how to increase the reliability of the grid in a capital-efficient manner, how to de-carbonize the grid by enabling it to accommodate more electric vehicles and rooftop solar, and how to improve the flexibility of the system and increase automation.  

At Switched Source, we are always evolving. Our success depends on people who approach challenges with curiosity, show empathy, and respect one another. We flex to support the team wherever needed, communicate openly, and collaborate to solve complex problems. We value progress over rigidity and collective success over individual agendas.  

Position Summary: The Mechanical Engineer will support the design, documentation, manufacturing, and field deployment of Switched Source’s power flow control technologies. This role is responsible for creating and maintaining accurate mechanical designs, drawings, assemblies, bills of materials, and manufacturing documentation while collaborating closely with engineering, production, suppliers, and field teams. The ideal candidate is an experienced mechanical engineer with a practical understanding of manufacturability, and the ability to contribute both in the shop and in the field.  

Location: Chicago, hybrid  

Key Responsibilities:

• Create, modify, and maintain mechanical drawings, 3D models, and assembly documentation for custom electrical equipment and power distribution technologies.  
• Develop manufacturing-ready drawings using Creo, including part drawings, large assembly drawings, component layouts, enclosure details, and related fabrication documentation.  
• Translate design concepts, engineering requirements, and product specifications into detailed mechanical designs that support safe, efficient, and repeatable manufacturing.  
• Prepare and maintain bills of materials, drawing packages, assembly instructions, and supporting documentation throughout the product lifecycle.  
• Collaborate with electrical engineering, manufacturing, quality, suppliers, and fabrication partners to resolve fit, form, function, and manufacturability issues.  
• Support shop-floor builds, prototype development, product testing, field installations, and issue resolution as needed.  
• Revise and organize engineering documentation within company design and data-management systems, ensuring accuracy, traceability, and version control.  

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical discipline, or equivalent practical experience.  
• At least 3-5 years of relevant mechanical design or engineering experience; 8–10 years of experience is preferred.  
• Strong proficiency creating detailed mechanical drawings and 3D models in Creo.  
• Experience developing drawings for manufacturing, including part drawings, assemblies, tolerances, and fabrication details.  
• Ability to interpret technical specifications, mechanical drawings, schematics, and related engineering documentation.  
• Working knowledge of bills of materials, engineering change processes, and documentation control.  
• Ability to work onsite in Chicago and support shop or field activities as needed.  

Preferred Qualifications:  

• Experience with medium-voltage electrical equipment, switchgear, switchboards, panelboards, control panels, or related power distribution products.  
• Experience with sheet-metal design, bus bar layouts, enclosure fabrication, bending, forming, or other manufactured components.  
• Experience managing bills of materials, supplier documentation, vendor communication, or fabrication partner coordination.  
• Familiarity with product data management systems and engineering documentation workflows.  
• Knowledge of applicable UL, NEMA, NEC, or related standards for electrical equipment.  

What We Offer:  

• The opportunity to be part of a pioneering company shaping the future of energy distribution  
• A supportive and dynamic work environment  

Switched Source is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.