Vehicle Development Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you.
Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.
Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all?
Position Summary
The Product Development Engineer - Electro-Mechanical Systems is responsible for the development, and validation of electro-mechanical systems for the newly formed Mechatronics group as related to electric mobility and data center products. This role focuses on electric drivetrains, gearboxes, electric motors, and e-bike system integration, supporting product development and testing efforts from early concept through prototype build, testing, and production release.
The ideal candidate combines strong mechanical engineering fundamentals with practical hands-on experience in development of mechatronic systems for e-mobility or light electric vehicle development, including close collaboration with cross-functional teams such as electrical hardware engineering, motor controls software, mechanism design, manufacturing, suppliers, and test engineering.
This position reports to Gates Director of Innovation - Mechatronics and is responsible for developing, testing and supporting mechanical, hardware & software for e-bike centric devices (mid-drive, wheel hub) and also electric water pump products.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Product & System Development
Design and develop electro-mechanical components and assemblies for e-mobility & other product applications, including:

• Gearboxes and power transmission systems
• Electric motor housings, mounts, and thermal interfaces
• Electronics hardware & software calibration development and optimization
• Bicycle and light vehicle integration (frames, interfaces, mounts, tolerances)

-Translate system requirements into detailed mechanical designs that meet performance, durability, manufacturability, and cost targets
-Interface with electrical hardware and embedded firmware teams to understand function of those systems, determine how to flash firmware updates, and make calibration changes as needed, and understand use cases and control logic to be able optimize for performance, energy consumption and reliability, communicate performance data and resolve issues that arise.
-Support architecture and concept development for new electric mobility and or data center or other mechatronics products as needed
Design & Analysis
-Create 3D CAD models, assemblies, and detailed drawings using industry-standard CAD tools (solidworks, or PTC Creo)
-Perform mechanical calculations and analysis related to:

• Gear trains, bearings, shafts, and fasteners
• Structural strength, fatigue, and vibration
• Thermal management and packaging constraints

-Conduct tolerance stack-up analysis and support DFMEA and design reviews
Prototyping & Testing
-Plan and execute prototype builds, including supplier coordination and in-house assembly support
-Define and support mechatronics testing activities such as:

• Functional and durability testing
• Environmental and thermal testing
• Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) evaluation

-Analyze test results and iterate designs to meet performance and reliability targets
Manufacturing & Supplier Collaboration
-Support manufacturing process development, including DFM/DFA activities
-Work with external suppliers on component sourcing, feasibility reviews, and design refinements
-Assist with production launch activities and resolution of field or manufacturing issues
Cross-Functional Collaboration
-Work closely with electrical, software, and controls engineers and Product Manager (Bicycles) to ensure integrated system assembly meets product requirements and support the Product Development Process.
-Participate in project planning, technical reviews, and design milestones updates
-Provide clear technical documentation and communicate progress effectively
-Regular reporting on status updates of projects.
Requirements and Preferred Skills
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics or related field (Electrical Engineer)
• 3+ years of experience in electro-mechanical product development (e-mobility, automotive, bicycle, robotics, or similar industries preferred)
• Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, including:

• Gearboxes and power transmission
• Bearings, shafts, and structural components
• Materials and manufacturing processes

• Proficiency with 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, CATIA, NX)
• Hands-on experience with prototyping, testing, programming and design validation
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, iterative development environment
Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience with mechanisms, electric motors and drivetrain integration and associated test methods
• Knowledge of bicycle or light electric vehicle standards and interfaces
• Familiarity with DFMEA, GD&T, and tolerance stack-up analysis
• Experience supporting manufacturing ramp-up or production launch and the product development process
• Proficient in specifying and commissioning instrumentation and dyno equipment such as thermocouples, pressure transducers, torque flanges, power meters, and data acquisition systems.
• Exposure to NVH or thermal design for electromechanical systems
• Avid cyclist or mountain biker with an interest in developing an e-bike.
Key Competencies
• Strong mechanical engineering intuition and problem-solving skills
• Practical, hands-on mindset with attention to detail
• Ability to balance innovation with manufacturability and cost
• Effective communication and teamwork across disciplines
• Passion for e-mobility, sustainability, and product excellence
• Experience with using microcontrollers to actuate mechanical things
Pay & Benefits

• Full-Time
• Salary: $90,000 - $105,000
• Medical, Dental, Vision insurance and other voluntary benefit options: benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire
• Eligible for 3 weeks of paid vacation + 11 holidays (9 scheduled & 2 floating) + 8 sick days. All vacation days are accrued
• 401(k): 3% company contribution and additional 3% company match
• Tuition Reimbursement

Why Gates?
Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. While we might operate in a vast amount of time zones we operate as 'One Gates' and have a common goal of pushing the boundaries of materials science. We invest in our people, bringing real-world experience that enables us to solve our customers' diverse challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow.
Work Environment
Gates is an Equal Opportunity and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, age, disability, pregnancy, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other consideration defined by law.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands and fingers to work with objects, tools, or controls; and use office equipment including computers, telephones, and/or copiers/scanners. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in Colorado, Gates is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. This compensation range is specific to the State of Colorado and takes into account various factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role.
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