Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

What You'll Do

• Lead advanced 3D CAD modeling, design reviews, and simulation/analysis for complex systems.
• Serve as subject matter expert on core projects, guiding material selection, DFM/DFA, and test strategy.
• Oversee prototype builds, root cause analysis, and validation testing to ensure design integrity.
• Define, review, and execute test plans, ensuring compliance with performance and regulatory standards.
• Manage CAD assemblies and establish best practices for configuration and integration.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical oversight across the team.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transition designs into scalable production.
• Contribute to long-term technology roadmaps and continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• 7+ years of work experience in design and development of electromechanical components, assemblies, and systems.
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, or a technically related field.
• Proficient in 3D CAD modeling (SolidWorks) and DFM for Injection Molding, Machining, Additive Manufacturing.
• Skilled in complex design, surface modeling, and industrial design.
• Experience in mechanical design review and root cause analysis.
• Ability to make high quality engineering drawings that meet industry standards and apply GD&T.
• Demonstrated hands-on fabrication skills.
• Experience in electronic product and UAS design.
• Experience in bringing products through full product life cycle.
• Strong success rate of receiving and interpreting design direction from creative partners.
• Strong interdisciplinary skills across other engineering departments.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift/carry up to 50 pounds.
• Must have manual dexterity to operate standard machine shop equipment as well as standard office equipment.
• Must be physically capable of tolerating loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE).
• May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment.
• May require occasional travel to test sites/customer locations/supplier facilities.
• May require exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments.

Work Environment

• This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment.
• This role requires use of standard office equipment and may involve exposure to loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE) and may require occasional travel to test sites/customer locations/supplier facilities.
• This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments.
• May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment.
• This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities.
• Standard works hours for this position are 8:30am-5:00pm with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

Benefits

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• On-site gym.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

EEO Statement

• PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws.
• We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.