Mechanical Engineer IV

Location: Sunnyvale, CA (onsite)

Introduction

We are seeking a highly skilled Gear Design Subject Matter Expert (SME) to join our Hardware Technologies team, focusing on the design, analysis, and optimization of micro-scale gear systems. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in precision gear engineering with a primary focus on size reduction and acoustic noise minimization. This role will drive innovation in compact mechanical drive systems for next-generation consumer hardware products.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mechanics, or a closely related field
• 5 years of hands-on gear design experience, with at least 3 years focused on miniature/micro scale gear systems
• Expert-level knowledge of gear mesh theory, contact mechanics, and gear noise generation mechanisms
• Demonstrated experience reducing gear noise through profile optimization, micro-geometry modifications, and system-level tuning
• Proficiency with gear-specific software (KISSsoft, MASTA, Penn State GearLab tools, or equivalent) and general FEA (ANSYS, Abaqus)
• Deep familiarity with micro-manufacturing processes and their impact on achievable tolerances and surface quality
• Experience with gear metrology (CMM, gear checkers, surface profilometry) at fine pitch/module scales
• Applicants must be able to work directly for Artech on W2

Preferred Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with polymer and composite gears for noise-sensitive applications
• Familiarity with acoustic measurement and analysis (sound power, order tracking, transfer path analysis)
• Knowledge of tribology and lubrication strategies for enclosed micro gearboxes
• Experience with tolerance stack-up and statistical methods (Monte Carlo, Six Sigma) applied to micro assemblies
• Background in consumer electronics, medical devices, or watchmaking (industries with strict size and noise constraints)
• Publications or patents in gear noise reduction or micro-mechanism design
• Hands-on prototyping experience with additive manufacturing (SLA, etc.) for micro gear feasibility studies

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Lead micro gear design efforts from concept through production, including gear tooth geometry definition, material selection, and tolerance analysis for miniaturized assemblies
• Develop and optimize gear profiles to minimize transmission error, contact stress, and audible noise in sub-millimeter to single-digit-millimeter scale geartrains
• Perform detailed acoustic and vibration analysis of gear mesh interactions, identifying root causes of noise and implementing design countermeasures
• Drive gear system miniaturization by evaluating architectures and emerging micro-manufacturing processes
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver integrated solutions meeting aggressive size, noise, and lifetime targets
• Develop and maintain predictive models for gear mesh stiffness variation, transmission error, and NVH performance
• Establish design guidelines and best practices for micro gear systems
• Evaluate and qualify new materials and coatings for noise reduction and wear performance at micro scale

Company Benefits & Culture

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Flexible work environment supporting hybrid/onsite arrangements

For immediate consideration please click APPLY to begin the screening process with Alex.