Mechanical Engineer

Power Probe Group • Charlotte, NC

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Mechanical Engineer will lead the design and development of all mechanical components and assemblies for a line of automotive electrical diagnostic products. This role involves creating ergonomic, durable, and high-precision enclosures and accessories that must operate reliably in harsh automotive environments (e.g., extreme temperatures, chemical exposure, and high vibration).

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in mechanical engineering, or a related field experience.
• 3-7 years of experience in product design, ideally focusing on handheld electronic devices or automotive equipment.
• Advanced CAD/CAE: Proficiency in parametric modeling and simulation tools for Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to predict mechanical stress and thermal behavior.
• Materials Expertise: Deep knowledge of engineering plastics (ABS, Polycarbonate), over-molding, and elastomers for ruggedized handheld tools.
• Thermal Management: Experience designing heat dissipation solutions for diagnostic devices containing high-speed processors or power electronics, working in collaboration with electrical/electronic engineers.
• Design for Manufacturing (DFM): Ability to optimize parts for high-volume production while maintaining strict tolerance stack-ups. Experience collaborating with subcontractors and integrating supply chain partners.
• Basic knowledge of project management methodologies and the ability to collaborate with teams to complete projects on time and within budget.
• Strategic mindset with a focus on innovation, continuous improvement, and product development.
• Strong decision-making and organizational skills.
• Willingness to travel up to 20% annually as required.

Nice To Haves

• Technical knowledge of diagnostic systems, electronic components, and automotive electrical systems
• Familiarity with automotive electrical systems and diagnostic protocols (e.g., CAN bus, ODB-II) is highly preferred.
• General knowledge of ERP for new parts/SKU creation and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems to control file revisions (Engineering Changes – ECN).
• Automotive industry experience is preferred but not required.
• Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Mechanical Design & Development: Use advanced 3D CAD (SolidWorks preferred) to design enclosures, custom probes, lead sets, and mounting accessories from concept through production.
• Complex Assemblies: Develop integrated electromechanical diagnostic assemblies, ensuring seamless fitment of designed housing, PCBs, displays, tactile buttons, and internal wiring components.
• Prototyping & Iteration: Build and test physical prototypes using rapid prototyping techniques (3D printing-internally available, CNC machining, molding, or fabrication-in partnership with vendors) to validate form, fit, and user ergonomics.
• Environmental & Durability Testing: Design and execute test plans for impact resistance (drop tests), thermal cycling, and ingress protection (IP ratings) to meet automotive standards like ISO 16750.
• Manufacturing Support: Create detailed production drawings using GD&T and collaborate with internal partners or vendors on injection molding, fabrication, and assembly processes.
• Compliance & Safety: Ensure all mechanical designs comply with industry safety standards and regulatory requirements (e.g., CE, UL, or automotive-specific AEC-Q certifications).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level