What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mechanical Engineer position at Tractable?
Why Tractable?
We combine world-class AI research with real-world applications that make a difference. At Tractable, you’ll collaborate with brilliant minds, work on transformative projects, and contribute to technology that helps people when they need it most.
Tractable’s AI products already transform how the automotive and insurance industries assess vehicle damage. We’re now taking the leap from pure software into our first hardware platform – a drive‑through imaging rig that automatically captures high‑fidelity photos and sensor data for instant AI analysis. You’ll be part of the founding hardware team turning an early functional prototype into a robust, scalable product that will be deployed at dealerships, collision centres and logistics hubs worldwide.
What You’ll Do
Must‑haves
We move fast, prototype even faster, and value bias to action. You’ll work alongside software, AI and product teammates who share a passion for shipping ambitious ideas, learning from real‑world data, and iterating relentlessly. If you thrive in an environment where “done is better than perfect” today – and perfection is tomorrow’s sprint – you’ll fit right in.
Diversity commitment
At Tractable, we are committed to building a diverse team and inclusive workplace where people’s varied backgrounds and experiences are valued and recognised.
We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and offer equal opportunities without discrimination.
We combine world-class AI research with real-world applications that make a difference. At Tractable, you’ll collaborate with brilliant minds, work on transformative projects, and contribute to technology that helps people when they need it most.
Tractable’s AI products already transform how the automotive and insurance industries assess vehicle damage. We’re now taking the leap from pure software into our first hardware platform – a drive‑through imaging rig that automatically captures high‑fidelity photos and sensor data for instant AI analysis. You’ll be part of the founding hardware team turning an early functional prototype into a robust, scalable product that will be deployed at dealerships, collision centres and logistics hubs worldwide.
What You’ll Do
- Own the mechanical architecture of the drive‑through scanner from concept through production – including CAD models, drawings and BOMs.
- Iterate on the existing prototype: improve rigidity, alignment, serviceability and aesthetics while reducing cost and assembly time.
- Design sheet‑metal, welded, machined and additive parts; run tolerance, FEA and thermal analyses where appropriate.
- Integrate cameras, lighting, sensors, compute and wiring into clean, field‑serviceable assemblies (IP‑rated enclosures, cable management, heat dissipation, etc.).
- Develop test fixtures, jigs and procedures for alignment and calibration on the factory floor and in the field.
- Collaborate closely with electrical / firmware / software teams; write simple Python/C scripts when needed for hardware tests, sensor bring‑up or kiosk control.
- Source components, evaluate vendors, and work with contract manufacturers to transition from prototypes to low‑volume pilot builds, then to scalable production.
- Document designs, ECOs and assembly instructions in our PLM tool; manage part lifecycles and change control.
- Occasionally travel (~20 %) to pilot customer installs, supplier sites and industry events
Must‑haves
- B.S. or higher in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent experience).
- 3 years designing electro‑mechanical products in a startup or similar fast‑paced environment.
- Fluency with modern CAD (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Onshape, etc.), drawing standards and GD&T.
- Hands‑on fabrication experience: 3‑D printing, CNC / manual machining, sheet‑metal, welding or similar.
- Basic electronics knowledge (PCB layouts, wiring, power budgets) and comfort probing/debugging with a DMM or scope.
- Proven track record of taking prototypes to production, including DFM / DFA and supplier engagement.
- Strong communication, documentation and project‑tracking habits.
- Experience with vision systems, cameras, optics or lighting.
- Knowledge of automotive service environments (IP ratings, vibration, chemical exposure).
- Familiarity with compliance & certification (UL, CE, FCC, automotive standards).
- Thermal management of electronics‑in‑enclosures.
- Finite‑element analysis (FEA) for structural design or crash protection.
- Start‑to‑finish ownership of a product that shipped in >100‑unit volumes.
- Python or C skills sufficient for hardware test automation or quick firmware tweaks.
- Impact & Ownership – you’ll be the first dedicated mechanical engineer on a green‑field hardware program.
- Equity upside in a high‑growth, AI‑first company.
- A maker‑friendly lab with welding gear, CNC, printers, sensors and cameras at your disposal.
- Flexible working hours and hybrid work options (on‑site presence in Salt Lake City, UT required).
- Competitive salary, healthcare, generous PTO, and professional development budget.
We move fast, prototype even faster, and value bias to action. You’ll work alongside software, AI and product teammates who share a passion for shipping ambitious ideas, learning from real‑world data, and iterating relentlessly. If you thrive in an environment where “done is better than perfect” today – and perfection is tomorrow’s sprint – you’ll fit right in.
Diversity commitment
At Tractable, we are committed to building a diverse team and inclusive workplace where people’s varied backgrounds and experiences are valued and recognised.
We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and offer equal opportunities without discrimination.