Mechanical Engineer II

The Mechanical Engineer II is responsible for providing mechanical design solutions for nickel-zinc (NiZn) battery-related products/projects and for internal test apparatus. The selected candidate will use 3D CAD systems to create design models, detailed drawings, and perform analysis, while ensuring DFX (design for assembly, design for manufacturability, and design for cost) is implemented in the early stages of the PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) process. The successful candidate will build their electro-mechanical expertise to help drive the development of advanced battery system solutions for targeted applications. This role will work onsite at ZincFive headquarters in Tualatin, Oregon and reports to the Technical Engineering Manager.

Mechanical Engineer II Job Duties:

• Apply mechanical and electromechanical principles to identify, understand and solve fundamental issues for the development of new products
• Work with cross-functional engineering team to provide application-specific design concepts and detailed, mechanical engineering analyses
• Create detailed mechanical assembly and part drawings and apply industry standard tolerance to meet or exceed product/DFX requirements
• Develop 3D models to support PLM gate 1-2 and work directly with supplier and supply chain to provide RPM (Rapid prototype manufacturing) solutions
• Create application-specific CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) models to validate effective heat dissipation for NiZn battery-related products and electronics
• Develop and implement innovative design concepts for optimizing power and energy density for battery packs and full, battery systems
• Lead, design and execute proof of concept efforts for feasibility and performance assessments
• Develop New Product Initiatives, and support from concept to launch
• Drive mechanical engineering initiatives for continuous performance improvements, reducing manufacturing and product costs, and implementing quality/reliability improvements
• Manage and work with customers, consultants and contractors as needed
• Ensure adherence to gated PLM (Product Lifestyle Management) process and methodology
• Develop and release accurate designs during CP&D, Alpha, Beta, and HVM gates
• Select 2nd alternative sourcing resource during HVM (High-Volume Manufacturing) gate for all critical components
• Work with internal teams to ensure compliance with all NRTL (Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory) safety standards and customer specifications including UL, CE, EMC/EMI, NFPA, and any other UPS (Uninterruptable Power Supply) or battery-related requirements
• Conduct detailed tolerance analysis including stack up tolerance to ensure efficient assembly and reliable product performance
• Hold design review meetings with cross-functional team and obtain sponsor approval to pass each phase-gate or design release
• Work closely with cross-functional team members in planning and executing project-based activities
• Create accurate indented BOM (Bill of Materials) including component and labor cost
• Develop fixtures and tooling as required for new and existing product designs
• Domestic and international travel as needed (<5% expected)

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) or equivalent
• 5 years of relevant mechanical engineering experience.
• Education and training in polymer science, FEA techniques, heat transfer, and basic electronics
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
• Expertise in SolidWorks CAD and analysis tools, including familiarity with structural and CFD analysis.
• Detail-oriented with developed analytical and problem-solving aptitude
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Experience or understanding in additive manufacturing for prototyping and fixture manufacturing
• Experience or understanding of hand tools and basic machine-shop equipment
• Requires excellent interpersonal skills and effective communication
• Proficiency in FEA and CFD analysis
• Experience in designing complex sheet metal components
• Experience in designing complex injection molded components
• Experience in complex CAD assembly models and drawings
• Proficiency in GD&T

Preferred Qualifications:

• Working understanding of High Voltage and High Voltage electronics
• Previous experience working with suppliers and customers

Key Competencies:

• Attention to detail
• Integrity
• Problem-solving
• Results oriented and data-driven
• Sound engineering/scientific judgment
• Teamwork
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• Work involves sitting, walking, and lifting up to 25 pounds
• Requires close visual acuity and the ability to distinguish color
• Normal office and laboratory environments
• Domestic and international travel by car, airplane, bus & train

Salary offers will depend on factors that include the location you work from, your level, education, training, specific skills, years of experience and comparison to other employees already in this role.

In addition, the successful candidate for this position will become eligible for a comprehensive set of outstanding benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401k, paid sick time, paid time off for vacation, paid holidays, paid community service days, professional/personal learning program, and applicable state/federal paid family leave.

ZincFive is committed to employing a diverse workforce. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status. We maintain a safe workplace and perform pre-employment testing. ZincFive is a participant in E-Verify and receives employment authorization of new hires through Social Security and the Department of Homeland Security databases.