Freelance Prototype Build Engineer Jobs in Modesto, CA

Associate Mechanical Engineer

Build Products That Help Power America

MacLean Power Systems is seeking a motivated Associate Mechanical Engineer to join our growing engineering team in Stockton, California.This is a hands-on engineering opportunity for someone who enjoys mechanical design, problem-solving, testing, prototype development, and working directly with manufacturing teams. You will have the opportunity to support products from initial concept and design through fabrication, testing, production, and final release.Our Stockton team designs and manufactures high-voltage switchgear and utility equipment used by major electric utility companies throughout California and across the United States. We take pride in producing dependable, high-quality, Made in the USA equipment that supports the nation’s electrical grid and critical infrastructure.Whether you are a recent graduate or an early-career engineer looking to expand your experience, this role offers valuable exposure to product development, manufacturing, testing, and continuous improvement within a growing company.

What You’ll Do:

• Create and revise 3D models and manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks and AutoCAD.
• Produce detailed engineering drawings, assemblies, and bills of materials.
• Develop drawing details, dimensions, tolerances, and manufacturing requirements.
• Design, build, and evaluate mechanical prototypes.
• Perform product testing and document test procedures, observations, and results.
• Work directly with fabrication, machining, welding, and assembly teams to ensure designs are practical and manufacturable.
• Support prototype builds and assist with resolving fit, function, and manufacturing issues.
• Process Engineering Change Orders and Engineering Change Requests (ECOs/ECRs) and maintain accurate engineering documentation.
• Assist with troubleshooting manufacturing, assembly, and product-performance issues.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives for existing products and manufacturing processes.
• Participate in design reviews and collaborate with cross-functional teams throughout product development.
• Work closely with engineering, quality, operations, purchasing, and production personnel.
• Help take products from initial concept through prototype, testing, manufacturing, and production release.

What We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline, or expected graduation in the near future.
• Experience with SolidWorks and AutoCAD is preferred, but not required.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Mechanically inclined with a desire to work in a hands-on engineering environment.
• Interest in mechanical design, fabrication, welding, manufacturing, and product testing.
• Comfortable working in both an office and manufacturing setting.
• Ability to communicate effectively with engineers, welders, fabricators, machinists, assemblers, and other team members.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining attention to detail.
• Positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to take direction.
• Desire to grow professionally and take on increasing levels of responsibility.

Why Join MacLean Power Systems?At MacLean Power Systems, you will do more than create drawings—you will help design and build equipment that utility companies depend on to keep power flowing safely and reliably.You will be involved throughout the product-development process, from concept and CAD design to prototype fabrication, testing, manufacturing, and final release. This position provides the opportunity to work both at your desk and on the production floor, allowing you to see your designs become real, functional products.

We offer:

• A collaborative and supportive engineering team.
• Hands-on experience designing, building, testing, and improving real products.
• Exposure to fabrication, welding, machining, assembly, quality, and manufacturing processes.
• Opportunities to contribute to new product development and continuous improvement projects.
• Room for professional growth and career advancement within a growing company.
• The opportunity to work on equipment used by major electric utilities throughout California and across the United States.
• The satisfaction of helping produce high-quality, Made in the USA equipment that supports America’s electrical infrastructure.

If you are mechanically inclined, enjoy solving practical engineering problems, and want a role where you can design, build, test, and improve real products, we encourage you to apply.

Pay Range: $21.00 - $22.00