Senior Mechanical Engineer, Chassis & Enclosures

Location: San Diego, CAJob Type: Full-TimeSalary Range: $130,000 - $140,000Position OverviewAs a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will lead the detailed design and implementation of structural frames, external enclosures, and internal packaging systems for our instruments. You will work closely with electrical, optical, fluidics, and manufacturing teams to ensure reliable, serviceable, and manufacturable system integration.You are a strong executor who can take system requirements and translate them into robust mechanical solutions. You are comfortable working through ambiguity and enjoy owning hardware from concept through production.ResponsibilitiesChassis & Structural DesignDesign instrument chassis and structural frames to meet stiffness, vibration, and durability requirementsPerform tolerance stack-ups and basic structural analysis to ensure mechanical robustnessDevelop mounting strategies for subsystems including optics, electronics, power systems, and fluidicsSupport shock, vibration, and environmental considerations appropriate for lab and field useEnclosure DesignDesign external and internal enclosures using sheet metal, machined components, and plasticsSelect components to manage temperature, humidity, aerosols, and particulates in the enclosure design. Ensure proper airflow, access panels, cable pass-throughs, and service clearancesIncorporate industrial design elements and user needs in enclosure designCable Management & System PackagingDevelop cable routing strategies including harness support, strain relief, and service loopsPartner with Electrical Engineering to implement grounding and EMI-conscious routing practicesOptimize internal layout for manufacturability and serviceabilityMaintain clear mechanical datums and packaging hierarchyAnalysis, Prototyping & ValidationPerform tolerance analysis and basic FEA as neededBuild and test prototypes; iterate rapidly based on integration feedbackTroubleshoot mechanical and packaging issues during system bring-upSupport validation testing including vibration, thermal cycling, and handlingManufacturing & DocumentationCreate detailed drawings with appropriate GD&TParticipate in DFM/DFA reviews and cost optimization effortsCollaborate with contract manufacturers and suppliersSupport transition from prototype to pilot production buildsQualificationsRequiredB.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering or related field5–8+ years of experience designing complex mechanical assembliesExperience designing chassis and/or enclosures for hardware productsFamiliarity with sheet metal, machined components, and plastic partsExperience with tolerance analysis and GD&TProficiency in 3D CAD (e.g. SolidWorks)Hands-on experience building and debugging hardwarePreferredExperience in bioinstrumentation, medical devices, or scientific equipmentFamiliarity with EMI/EMC considerations in electromechanical systemsExperience designing cable routing and harness support systemsExperience supporting early production buildsExperience working with contract manufacturersWhat We’re Looking ForStrong mechanical fundamentals and attention to detailPractical systems thinker who understands cross-disciplinary integrationComfortable owning subsystems end-to-endHands-on engineer who enjoys working in the labClear communicator across engineering disciplinesWe are an equal opportunity employer. We thrive on diversity and collaboration.Compensation Range: $130K - $140K