Equipment Engineer - Manufacturing & Vacuum Systems

Mechanical EngineerPosition OverviewWe are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, and scale mechanical systems and assemblies used in vacuum and instrument applications. The role will focus on integrating sensors and instrumentation, packaging MEMS devices, and developing tooling and manufacturing processes to transition prototypes into robust, high-volume production. The ideal candidate balances hands-on prototyping and testing with strong engineering documentation and collaboration across design, manufacturing, and quality teams.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign and develop mechanical components, assemblies, fixtures, and tooling for vacuum systems, instruments, and sensor packages.Create and maintain detailed CAD models, mechanical drawings, BOMs, and manufacturing documentation using SolidWorks/Creo or equivalent.Integrate sensors, electronics, and MEMS devices into robust packaging that meets functional, environmental, and manufacturability requirements.Develop, specify, and validate vacuum-rated components and subsystems, including seals, feedthroughs, valves, and enclosures.Collaborate with manufacturing and suppliers to scale processes from prototype to volume production; develop assembly processes, work instructions, and quality controls.Design and iterate prototypes; plan and execute mechanical, environmental, and performance testing; analyze results and implement design improvements.Develop tooling, jigs, and fixturing for assembly, test, and calibration operations; support equipment selection and commissioning.Perform tolerance analysis, failure mode assessments (DFMEA), and design for manufacturability/reliability (DFM/DFR) to ensure robust product performance.Work cross-functionally with electrical, firmware, product, and quality teams to meet product requirements, schedules, and regulatory constraints.Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians, and support supplier qualification and vendor negotiations.QualificationsBachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field; MS preferred.5+ years of mechanical engineering experience supporting vacuum systems, scientific instruments, sensors, or MEMS packaging.Hands-on experience with vacuum hardware, including understanding of seals, flanges, feedthroughs, and vacuum-compatible materials.Experience with microelectronics/MEMS packaging, sensor integration, and precision assemblies.Proven experience scaling designs to manufacturing: tooling development, assembly process creation, and supplier management.Proficiency in 3D CAD (SolidWorks, Creo or similar) and drawings to ASME Y14.5/GD&T standards; experience with FEA and tolerance stack-up analysis a plus.Familiarity with machining, sheet metal fabrication, thin-film handling, and cleanroom manufacturing practices.Strong problem-solving skills, data-driven test and validation approach, and experience with test equipment and metrology tools.Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams, with experience leading projects to successful production release.