Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Rochester, NY

JOB SUMMARY

Farther Farms is pioneering a novel CO₂-based food processing platform to redefine how food is made, preserved, and distributed. As Engineering Technician, you will support the design, testing, and optimization of food processing equipment and instrumentation systems. This role involves operating and modifying pilot-scale machinery, collecting and analyzing process data, and helping engineers develop reliable, scalable solutions for food production.

The ideal candidate has a strong mix of mechanical and electrical skills, experience with data acquisition and instrumentation, and the ability to create clear process documentation that supports equipment operation and validation efforts.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Associate degree or equivalent technical training in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, Food Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred but not required.

Experience:

• 3+ years of hands-on experience in an engineering lab, food processing facility, pilot plant, or equipment development environment.
• Proven background with data acquisition systems (e.g., NI LabVIEW, Dewesoft, or similar).
• Familiarity with food processing equipment or industrial automation systems a strong plus.

Skills & Competencies:

• Proficiency with mechanical assembly, piping, and instrumentation layout.
• Experience with electrical wiring, control panels, and sensor integration (thermocouple experience strongly preferred).
• Working knowledge of food industry standards for safety and sanitation (e.g., GMP, HACCP, 3-A, USDA).
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and documentation skills.
• Comfortable working in a dynamic, experimental environment where safety and cleanliness are priorities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Instrumentation & Data Acquisition

• Set up, calibrate, and maintain sensors, transducers, and data acquisition (DAQ) systems used for temperature, pressure, flow, and other process variables.
• Configure and operate data collection software to monitor process performance in real time.
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of all experimental and validation data.
• Assemble, operate, and maintain pilot-scale food processing machinery such as mixers, peelers, ovens, conveyors, pumps, or thermal processing units.
• Support the integration of new instruments, control systems, and automation components.
• Conduct production equipment operation, functional tests, process trials, and performance validation under engineering supervision.
• Identify and troubleshoot mechanical or electrical issues quickly and effectively. 

Process Documentation & Continuous Improvement

• Develop and maintain process work instructions, test procedures, and equipment operation manuals.
• Support the creation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in compliance with food safety and quality standards.
• Suggest improvements to equipment performance, ergonomics, and data reliability.

Technical Support & Collaboration

• Collaborate closely with food scientists, engineers, and process developers to implement experimental designs.
• Maintains positive and professional relationships with all team members, third party partners, and customers
• Build custom fixtures, prototype components, and small assemblies using machine tools and fabrication equipment.
• Perform electrical wiring, panel assembly, and instrumentation installation as needed.

Data Management & Reporting

• Record, organize, and summarize test data for engineering review.
• Prepare concise technical reports, test logs, and calibration records.
• Maintain accurate lab documentation to support regulatory and quality requirements.

Farther Farms is a food technology company working to improve the way food is made. We meld microbiology, engineering, food science, and operations expertise to bring to life innovative technologies that enable never-before-possible products. Beginning with our shelf-stable French fry, we are working to transform the way food is prepared, distributed, and accessed around the world by simultaneously uniting sustainability and delicious new food.