What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mechanical Engineer position at Arke?
About the Opportunity
Our client, an innovative autonomous robotics company, is seeking a highly skilled Contract Mechanical Engineer to support the design, development, and testing of next-generation robotic platforms. This role is ideal for an engineer who thrives in fast-paced product development environments and enjoys solving complex mechanical challenges related to autonomous systems.
The successful candidate will work closely with multidisciplinary teams including robotics, controls, software, electrical, and manufacturing engineers to develop robust mechanical solutions from concept through production.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop mechanical systems and components for autonomous robotic platforms.
- Create detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies, and engineering drawings.
- Conduct tolerance analysis, structural assessments, and design validation activities.
- Support prototype development, testing, troubleshooting, and design iteration.
- Collaborate with electrical, controls, and software teams to ensure seamless system integration.
- Evaluate and select materials, components, actuators, sensors, and manufacturing processes.
- Support Design for Manufacturing (DFM), Design for Assembly (DFA), and production readiness activities.
- Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for mechanical issues.
- Participate in design reviews and technical documentation development.
- Assist with supplier and manufacturing partner technical engagement as required.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
- 5 years of professional mechanical engineering experience.
- Proven experience designing electromechanical systems, robotic systems, or automated equipment.
- Advanced proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks, Creo, CATIA, or Inventor.
- Strong understanding of:
- Precision mechanical design
- Mechanisms and motion systems
- Bearings, gearboxes, actuators, and drivetrains
- Structural analysis and material selection
- Manufacturing processes and tolerancing
- Experience supporting prototype builds and product development cycles.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Excellent communication and documentation abilities.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), drones, or industrial robotics.
- Familiarity with ROS (Robot Operating System) environments.
- Experience with sheet metal, machined parts, injection molding, and composite structures.
- Knowledge of finite element analysis (FEA) tools.
- Experience working in startup or rapid-development environments.
- Understanding of environmental testing, reliability engineering, and field deployment considerations.
Deliverables
The contractor will be expected to:
- Develop production-ready mechanical designs.
- Deliver CAD models, drawings, and engineering documentation.
- Support prototype assembly and testing activities.
- Participate in design reviews and technical discussions.
- Resolve mechanical issues throughout development and validation phases.
- Contribute to design improvements that enhance performance, reliability, manufacturability, and cost efficiency.
Ideal Candidate
You are a hands-on mechanical engineer who enjoys taking products from concept to reality. You have experience working on robotic systems or complex electromechanical products, can work independently with minimal supervision, and are comfortable operating in a dynamic engineering environment where innovation and speed are highly valued.