Mechanical Design Engineer - Electric Motors

ZAPI GROUP has been engineering the transition to an all-electric future and is a global leader in electrification, thanks to its deep expertise in system integration and its highly integrated product portfolio, which includes motion controllers, electric motors, high-frequency battery chargers, and autonomous navigation software for fully electric and hybrid vehicles.

Today, ZAPI GROUP employs more than 1,700 people worldwide, generates annual revenues exceeding USD 700 million, and has a strong international presence with 18 locations across 13 countries, including Italy, Canada, the United States, Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, and China.

For our manufacturing plant in Soliera (MO), we are looking for a Mechanical Design Engineer (Experienced) - Electric Motors, reporting to the R&D Manager.

Job Purpose

The Senior Mechanical Engineer is responsible for the mechanical and electromagnetic design, development, validation, and optimization of AC, PM, and DC electric motors serving industries such as Material Handling, Construction Equipment, Off-Highway Vehicles, Aerial Work Platforms, Agriculture, Ground Support Equipment, Cleaning Equipment, eMobility, Marine, and related applications.

The role participates throughout the entire product lifecycle, from concept definition and engineering design through validation, industrialization, production launch, and post-launch technical support.

The position works closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams, project teams, Sales, Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, Customer Service, and Group technical counterparts to deliver innovative, reliable, and cost-effective motor solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Product Design & Development

• Design and develop mechanical and electromagnetic components, assemblies, and complete electric motor systems.
• Define innovative mechanical and electromagnetic architectures for new product platforms.
• Design and develop key mechanical and electromechanical components for electric motor platforms.
• Optimize product designs considering manufacturing processes such as machining, casting, die casting, forming, extrusion, plastic molding, and additive manufacturing.
• Create and maintain CAD models, technical documentation and engineering analyses supporting product development.
• Manage engineering changes and maintain product technical documentation.

Validation & Testing

• Define validation plans.
• Analyze test results.
• Conduct root cause analysis

Industrialization & Continuous Improvement

• Support industrialization activities applying DFM/DFA principles.
• Drive product optimization, cost reduction and resolution of manufacturing issues.

Technical Leadership

• Lead technical activities within product development programs.
• Mentor junior engineers and support technical reviews.
• Contribute to engineering standards and best practices.

Education

Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Mechatronics, Electromagnetic, or Industrial/Management Engineering, or equivalent qualification.

A final degree grade of 105/110 or above will be considered a preferred qualification.

Postgraduate specialization in electric motors, electrification, eMobility, or related technologies is considered an advantage.

Professional experience

5–10 years of experience in the design and development of electric motors or comparable electromechanical products.

Proven experience in mechanical design, product development, validation, and industrialization activities.

Experience working in cross-functional and international environments is highly desirable.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of AC, PM, and DC electric motor technologies.
• Solid understanding of mechanical design principles and electromechanical systems.
• Experience with 3D CAD systems (preferably Autodesk Inventor).
• Knowledge of FEM and engineering simulation methodologies.
• Understanding of Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA).
• Knowledge of manufacturing technologies including machining, casting, die casting, forming, plastics processing, and additive manufacturing.
• Familiarity with product validation, reliability testing, and root cause analysis methodologies.
• Ability to interpret technical standards, specifications, and engineering documentation.
• Fluent English, both written and spoken.

Soft Skills

• Strong technical leadership and engineering credibility.
• Analytical thinking and structured problem-solving approach.
• Results-oriented mindset.
• Excellent collaboration and cross-functional teamwork skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to engineering excellence.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Continuous improvement mindset.
• Passion for innovation, electrification technologies, and advanced engineering solutions.
• Ability to mentor and develop junior engineering talent.

Travel Availability

Availability for occasional national and international travel to customer sites, supplier facilities, Group companies, testing laboratories, trade fairs, and industry events.

Offer details

Fixed Salary Range: 45.000 – 60.000 €

Variable Salary: 7%-10%

Non-Competition Clause.

Labour contract: CNEL C018 Metalmeccanica PMI

Work Location: Best Motor – Limidi di Soliera (MO), Italy (On-site)

ZAPI GROUP is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of gender, age, nationality, ethnic origin, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other status protected by applicable law.

DESIGN AN ELECTRIFYING CAREER WITH US!

Zapi Group is an equal opportunity employer.