Sr Mechanical Design Engineer

Job Description

We are seeking a highly creative and hands-on Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to support the development of advanced manufacturing equipment used in TRISO fuel production and microfluidic kernel formation processes. This role is focused on rapid product development and iterative engineering, requiring an individual who can evaluate existing systems, identify opportunities for improved throughput, scalability, quality, and reliability, and develop innovative mechanical solutions from concept through operational deployment. The successful candidate will design, prototype, test, troubleshoot, and refine equipment involving microfluidics, fluid handling systems, flow and pressure balancing, machine vision integration, particle sorting technologies, automation, and process equipment. Working closely with scientists, manufacturing personnel, and operations teams, this engineer will create manufacturable solutions, develop detailed assemblies, fabrication packages, P&IDs, wiring diagrams, and supporting design documentation, while participating directly in hands-on assembly, testing, debugging, and continuous design improvement. The ideal candidate thrives in early-stage technology development environments, understands design-for-manufacturing principles, and enjoys taking ownership of equipment through multiple build-test-learn iterations rather than focusing primarily on late-stage qualification, documentation, or regulatory activities. Salary ranges from $50-80/hr and will sit in ABQ, NM.

Skills and Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related technical discipline. 10+ years of mechanical equipment design experience. Advanced proficiency with SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software. Proven experience designing and developing equipment from concept through prototype and production implementation. Strong understanding of machined components, welded assemblies, sheet metal fabrication, fluid handling equipment, and system integration. Practical knowledge of GD&T and engineering drawing fundamentals. Strong troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and problem-solving abilities. Ability to work independently in a fast-paced development environment. Experience with microfluidic systems. Pharmaceutical, medical device, CIP, or SIP equipment experience. Advanced manufacturing, robotics, semiconductor, aerospace, or nuclear equipment development. Experience working in Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 0-6 environments. Demonstrated Design-for-Manufacturing (DFM) and Design-for-Assembly (DFA) expertise. Experience supporting equipment scale-up from prototype to production.

We are a company committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, genetic factors, age, disability, protected veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please send a request to View email address on click.appcast.io.