Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical EngineerSubstrate is addressing one of the most important technological problems facing the United States. At the intersection of advanced manufacturing and cutting-edge physics, we are developing technologies that will reshape the semiconductor industry and strengthen America's technological leadership. We are a team of world-class scientists, engineers, and technical experts building technology for the United States.SummaryAs a Mechanical Engineer, you will design and develop ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems, precision mechanisms and high speed motion systems. This role requires deep hands-on engineering experience in high-precision manufacturing environments combined with the ability to work autonomously on complex technical challenges. You must be comfortable supporting scientists, engineers, and technical specialists working on parallel projects across multiple locations including external production sites. This is a full-time, in office position.ResponsibilitiesDesign and analyze UHV-compatible mechanical systems, components, and assemblies for state-of-the-art production facilities across distributed operational environmentsDevelop nanometer-precision mechatronic systems for high-speed, high-acceleration applicationsConduct structural analysis, vibration and thermal modeling, and FEA stress/strain calculations for high-acceleration mechatronic systems deployed in multiple locationsDesign vacuum-compatible mechanical assemblies and wafer handling robotics supporting autonomous production workstreamsBuild and execute comprehensive testing protocols including UHV validation, precision measurement, and performance characterization for field deploymentsCollaborate with electrical engineers and software teams on integrated mechatronic system design across parallel technical contributionsImplement vibration damping techniques and precision isolation systems for distributed production environmentsLead technical troubleshooting and root cause analysis for mechanical failures in systems across multiple installation sitesDevelop manufacturing processes and work directly with specialized vendors for precision components and vacuum-compatible materialsSupport external site installations and provide technical guidance for UHV production facility deploymentsDrive continuous improvement initiatives for precision mechanical systems across fluid organizational structuresRequired Qualifications6+ years hands-on mechanical engineering experience, 3+ years in precision manufacturing or research environments at technology companiesExpert-level CAD experience with complex precision assembly design and UHV-compatible componentsDirect experience with finite element analysis (FEA) for stress/strain calculations in high-acceleration mechatronic applicationsStrong background in vacuum technology, UHV system design, and vacuum-compatible materialsCross-functional collaboration experience supporting autonomous technical contributorsBuilt precision mechanical systems from concept through production in scaling technology environmentsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related technical fieldPreferred QualificationsBasic knowledge or experience with semiconductor wafer handling robotics or equipmentExperience supporting scientists and researchers in autonomous technical environments with fluid organizational structuresExperience with nanometer-precision actuators, motors, and positioning systemsHands-on experience with vibration damping techniques for high-precision mechanical systemsBackground in national labs, semiconductor equipment, or custom vacuum system design companiesSalary Range$150,000-$275,000 USDSubstrate is an equal opportunity employer. It provides equal employment opportunity to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, gender, age, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.Substrate will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need an accommodation during the hiring process, please let your recruiter know.