Job Title: Mechanical Engineer
Job Description
This role owns the end-to-end design and engineering lifecycle of complex mechanical assemblies, systems, and specialized tooling for large-format robotic 3D printing construction equipment. The Mechanical Engineer performs detailed analyses, creates robust documentation, and collaborates closely with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality, reliable, and manufacturable products in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
Responsibilities
Owned the end-to-end design and engineering lifecycle of complex mechanical assemblies, systems, and specialized tooling for large-format robotic 3D printing construction equipment.
Performed advanced structural, thermal, and kinematic analyses using hand calculations and FEA/CFD to evaluate stress, fatigue, deflection, thermal performance, and dynamic behavior, driving risk-informed design decisions.
Created and controlled comprehensive engineering documentation, including 3D CAD models, ASME Y14.5-compliant drawings, and accurate BOMs within PDM/PLM systems.
Led cross-functional design reviews and collaborated with mechanical, electrical, software, manufacturing, and field teams to optimize designs for performance, manufacturability, reliability, and cost.
Supported prototyping, validation, and field deployment by executing V&V plans, conducting FMEA-based risk mitigation, troubleshooting build and field issues, and implementing rapid design updates.
Essential Skills
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field, or equivalent experience.
3-5+ years of experience in a hands-on mechanical design or product development role, preferably involving robotics, automation, heavy equipment, or large machinery.
Proficiency with SolidWorks for 3D CAD modeling and mechanical design.
Experience with SolidWorks Simulation or equivalent tools; ANSYS experience is considered transferable.
Demonstrated experience designing and iterating R&D proto@types or the ability to design and iterate quickly while maintaining high-quality output.
Familiarity with ASME Y14.5 and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) for creating and interpreting detailed 2D drawings.
Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) and thermal analysis (expert-level proficiency not required).
Knowledge of machine design principles and new product development processes.
Ability to perform engineering hand calculations to support structural, thermal, and kinematic analyses.
Strong documentation skills for creating accurate BOMs, drawings, and models and maintaining them within PDM/PLM systems.
Ability to collaborate effectively in cross-functional teams and communicate technical concepts clearly.
Hands-on approach to troubleshooting mechanical issues in proto@types and deployed systems.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience with FEA beyond basic familiarity, including setting up and interpreting simulations for complex mechanical systems.
Experience designing, integrating, and troubleshooting fluid or hydraulic systems.
Experience designing hardware for prolonged use in dusty, dirty, or harsh outdoor environments.
Experience in robotics, automation, heavy equipment, or large machinery development.
Experience participating in or leading Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) activities.
Familiarity with verification and validation planning and execution for mechanical systems.
Comfort working in a fast-paced, early-phase company environment where rapid iteration and continuous improvement are expected.
Work Environment
This is a full-time, onsite role with typical hours from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with flexibility to work overtime as needed to support project milestones, builds, and field activities. The work environment is a fun, collaborative startup setting where you will work closely with engineers, technicians, and cross-functional partners on advanced robotic 3D printing construction equipment. The culture emphasizes innovation, hands-on problem-solving, and rapid iteration. Paid time off includes a company-wide shutdown week from December 26th through 31st, along with 10 paid holidays: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Election Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and an additional winter break holiday period. You can expect to work in a mix of office, lab, and shop-floor environments with access to modern CAD tools, simulation software, and prototyping equipment.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Austin, TX.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $65.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Austin,TX.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jun 5, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
