Mechanical Engineer

ConnectDER•Philadelphia, PA

33d•Hybrid

About The Position

ConnectDER represents the next generation in US-based resource technology product development. Our signature product, the ConnectDER Meter Socket Adapter, dramatically cuts down the cost and interconnection time for solar energy, EV charging, and home battery storage, putting clean, resilient power within reach of millions of homeowners. With a pipeline of exciting innovations, we’re only just getting started on our journey to transform how the world makes and consumes its energy. We are a dynamic, venture-backed company based in Philadelphia, PA, near Center City, with a team of over 50 dedicated professionals working in remote, hybrid, and on-site roles across the United States. As we continue to grow, we are committed to developing cutting-edge products that empower technology partners, installers, electricians, and their customers. We seek talented individuals who can deliver high-quality service and drive the value of clean energy resources forward. Our culture is collaborative, transparent, and team-oriented. We value open communication and people who bring thoughtful perspectives to the table. If you're looking for an opportunity to stretch your skills, get creative, and be a part of something new and meaningful, ConnectDER is the place for you!

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, with technical skills typically gained with at least 3-5 years of direct relevant experience.
Proven capability in 3D CAD modeling (Solidworks preferred), tolerance analysis, and Design for Manufacturability (DFM).
Hands-on experience in product design, including specific expertise in plastic part design as a non-negotiable competency.
Hands-on experience in rapid prototyping (3D printing, machining, sheet metal, fabrication) and testing.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Experience designing injection molded parts.
Direct experience navigating the NRTL certification process (UL, Intertek, etc.).
Background in the electrical utility, ANSI metering, or renewable energy grid integration industries.

Responsibilities

Drive medium-sized mechanical designs autonomously from initial concept through manufacturing hand-off and product sustaining.
Distill complex product requirements into detailed technical specifications, interface requirements, and design concepts.
Create 3D CAD models, tolerance analyses, detailed part/assembly drawings, and Bills of Material (BOMs), balancing trade-offs between performance, manufacturability, technical debt, and speed.
Break down complex engineering scope into manageable tasks, track progress against estimates, and anticipate roadblocks to keep development timelines on schedule.
Own early-stage product testing by developing test procedures, evaluating system capabilities, and anticipating potential design edge cases.
Collect, analyze, and summarize data into clear test reports.
Use findings to refine designs and mitigate technical risks early in the development cycle.
Debug design and manufacturing issues proactively.
Fabricate, 3D print, and modify components to build prototype units.
Build prototype and sample units for use in product evaluation, certification, utility and customer approval, and marketing/tradeshow models.
Present technical decisions, trade-offs, and risks clearly during design reviews and cross-functional planning sessions.
Collaborate with cross-functional partners (PMO, QA, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain) to align on implementation details, supplier selection, and resourcing.
Serve as a technical role model and provide guidance to junior team members to help elevate the engineering team’s overall capabilities.