What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mechanical Engineer (Junior) -- Switchgear and Power Systems position at JDC Power Systems Inc?
JDC Power Systems is seeking a Junior Mechanical Engineer to join our Hackettstown, NJ office. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer to develop practical mechanical design skills in the switchgear and power distribution industry.
In this role, you will support the mechanical design and coordination of low- and medium-voltage switchgear, power distribution equipment, and control enclosures. Working under the mentorship of senior engineers, you will gain hands-on experience with 3D CAD modeling, drawing interpretation, enclosure design, and bus bar layout verification.
This position offers structured on-the-job training, exposure to real manufacturing challenges, and the opportunity to contribute to build-ready designs that ship to customers worldwide. You will work closely with electrical engineers, controls specialists, manufacturing, and field service teams to understand how mechanical design impacts the entire product lifecycle.
Responsibilities and Duties
Assist in developing 3D CAD models and assemblies for switchgear and enclosure designs under senior engineer guidance
Learn to interpret electrical drawings and coordinate mechanical layouts with electrical intent
Support verification of bus bar alignment, phase spacing, supports, and clearances within enclosures
Participate in identifying dimensional conflicts and conflicts between bus bars, breakers, CTs, and other components
Support the creation of mechanical drawings from 3D models under review by senior engineers
Evaluate designs for manufacturability, assembly, and maintenance access with guidance from mentors
Attend design reviews and manufacturing discussions to understand real-world engineering challenges
Communicate findings and design questions to senior team members and cross-functional partners
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline (graduating students or recent graduates welcome to apply)
0 to 3 years of mechanical engineering experience; fresh talent with strong fundamentals preferred
Academic or internship experience with 3D CAD modeling (any platform) is a plus
Exposure to electrical concepts, tolerancing, or enclosure design is helpful but not required
Required Skills
Proficiency in CAD modeling (EPLAN, Solid Edge, SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or AutoCAD experience valued)
Understanding of basic dimensions, tolerances, and mechanical design principles
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings
Strong attention to detail and accuracy
Problem-solving mindset and willingness to learn from feedback
Ability to manage assigned tasks and meet deadlines
Good communication skills and ability to ask questions and seek clarification
Preferred Skills
Interest in or exposure to electrical power systems, switchgear, or industrial equipment
Familiarity with sheet metal, enclosure, or panel design
Internship or capstone project experience in mechanical design or manufacturing
Experience with or knowledge of ERP systems
What We Offer
Structured mentorship from experienced mechanical engineers and technical leads
Hands-on experience with industry-standard CAD tools and design workflows
Direct exposure to manufacturing, field service, and customer interactions
Clear career growth path into mid-level and senior mechanical engineering roles
Supportive team environment focused on professional development
Travel Requirements
Minimal travel initially; approximately 10% once experienced
Travel to customer sites and manufacturer locations may increase with seniority
Standard business hours with flexibility for design reviews and meetings
Out-of-area extended travel arrangements provided by JDC
Expenses related to travel and meals while traveling are covered at cost
JDC Power Systems, LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where all employment decisions are made on an individual basis without regard to characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law.
JDC Power Systems, LLC believes that supporting a respectful and inclusive workplace is critical to our success. JDC Power Systems, LLC is committed to making our application process accessible to all applicants and will provide reasonable accommodations upon request as required.
About JDC Power Systems Inc
JDC Power Systems, LLC is an Electrical Systems Integrator specializing in Mission Critical Power Distribution and Control Solutions for data centers. Founded in 2000 and based in Armonk, New York, JDC provides comprehensive technical services including engineering, procurement, equipment start-up and installation oversight, ensuring reliability and efficiency in data center construction and operations.