Mechanical Design Engineer

Job Description Job Title: Mechanical Design EngineerLocation: On-Site – Richmond, CAReports to: VP of Technology & InnovationAbout Us:Ocean Power Technologies, Inc. (OPT) provides intelligent maritime solutions and services that enable safer, cleaner, and more productive ocean operations for the defense and security, oil and gas, science and research, and offshore wind markets, including Merrows™, which provides AI-capable seamless integration of Maritime Domain Awareness Systems across platforms. Our PowerBuoy® platforms provide clean and reliable electric power and real-time data communications for remote maritime and subsea applications. We also provide WAM-V® unmanned surface vehicles (USV's) and marine robotics services. The Company's headquarters is located in Monroe Township, New Jersey with an additional office in Richmond, California.The Role:We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to join our Richmond, CA engineering team, focused on the design, development, and deployment of mechanical systems for WAM-V® autonomous surface vehicles, PowerBuoy® platforms, and supporting hardware. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys taking designs from concept through prototype and into fielded systems. You will be responsible for designing robust mechanical components and assemblies that can withstand harsh marine environments, while working closely with prototyping, electrical, and software teams to ensure seamless system integration.The ideal candidate is hands-on, detail-oriented, and comfortable balancing analytical design with practical build and test iteration. You should be motivated to see your designs operate in the real world and continuously improve them based on field performance. This position offers the opportunity to directly impact next-generation marine robotics platforms and contribute to systems operating in some of the most challenging environments.Responsibilities:Design and develop mechanical components and assemblies for autonomous marine systems, including structural, enclosure, and integration hardwareCreate detailed CAD models and drawings for parts and assemblies, ensuring manufacturability and serviceabilityPerform engineering analysis (e.g., stress, fatigue, thermal, corrosion considerations) to ensure robust performance in marine environmentsWork closely with prototyping and fabrication teams to build, test, and iterate on designsDesign for harsh environments, including considerations for sealing, corrosion resistance, vibration, and shockSupport system integration across mechanical, electrical, and software domainsDevelop and maintain BOMs, engineering documentation, and revision-controlled drawingsParticipate in testing and validation, including lab testing and field deployments/sea trialsTroubleshoot mechanical issues and implement design improvements based on test and field dataContribute to design standards, best practices, and continuous improvement of engineering processesQualifications:Required:US citizenshipBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related disciplineMinimum 2 years of experience in mechanical design or product developmentProficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks or similar) for part and assembly designStrong understanding of mechanical design principles, materials, and manufacturing processesExperience working with composites, aluminum structures, and welded assembliesExperience designing for manufacturability and assembly (DFM/DFA)Hands-on experience with prototyping, fabrication, and mechanical testingFamiliarity with corrosion-resistant materials, coatings, and sealing methodsAbility to create detailed engineering drawings and documentationStrong problem-solving skills and ability to work through design challenges in a hands-on environmentWillingness to participate in field deployments and sea trialsAbility to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teamsDesired:Experience designing for marine, outdoor, or ruggedized environmentsExperience with structural analysis tools (FEA), hydrodynamic modeling, and CFDExperience with robotics, autonomous systems, or unmanned vehiclesFamiliarity with PDM/PLM systemsEligibility for U.S. government security clearance (if required)Ocean Power Technologies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, genetic information, service in the military, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. Equal employment opportunity applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training.Salary range is $105,000 - $115,000 per year and includes the following:Bonus potentialRestricted Stock AwardsBenefits include:MedicalDentalVisionLife InsuranceDisability Insurance401(k)