Socket.dev

Description

Job Summary: The Senior Mechanical Designer is a highly experienced individual contributor responsible for mechanical system design, development, and manufacturability of complex parts. This role applies advanced engineering judgement to resolve design challenges, lead feasibility efforts, and ensure products move efficiently from concept through production. This position operates with minimal supervision and partners closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design components and subsystems from concept through production release.
• Identify, analyze, and resolve system-level design and development issues.
• Conduct feasibility studies, prototyping, and testing of new product concepts.
• Apply DFM/DFA principles to improve manufacturability, cost, reliability, and serviceability.
• Create and maintain 3D models, assemblies, and production documentation using SolidWorks.
• Own and maintain BOMs, part numbers, and engineering data within ERP systems.
• Partner with Manufacturing and Supply Chain to support tooling, fixtures, and productive readiness.
• Support redesigns of legacy products to meet regulatory, quality, or manufacturing requirements.
• Review project schedules, identify risks or delays, and recommend technical solutions to maintain delivery timelines.
• Provide technical guidance and informal mentoring to junior engineers or designers as needed.
• Ensure documentation and design outputs meet internal standards and applicable regulatory requirements.

Requirements Education & Experience

• Associate's degree in applied technology, Mechanical Drafting, or related technical field.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design and product development.
• Demonstrated experience in regulated manufacturing environments.
• Hands-on fabrication or prototyping experience preferred.
• Experience in energy, industrial systems, medical devices, or other highly regulated products preferred.

Skills & Abilities

• Advanced Proficiency in SolidWorks (complex assemblies, configurations, drawings).
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, tooling, and fixtures.
• Working knowledge of ERP systems (BOMs, part creation, engineering change data).
• History of system-level ownership or technical leadership on development programs preferred.

Work Environment

• Combination of desk-based engineering work and on-site engagement with production.
• Direct access to manufacturing areas, tools, and technical resources to enable rapid design feedback and issue resolution.
• Regular collaboration with engineers, technicians, and cross-functional partners.
• Must be able to lift up to 30lbs. with or without assistance.