Principal Mechanical Engineer

About the role

Fieldpiece is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead the development of an entirely new product from concept through launch. This role requires an engineer who enjoys transforming ideas into real, manufacturable products and collaborates with industrial design firms, ODM partners, and contract manufacturers.

Responsibilities

• Own mechanical product definition from early concept through production
• Evaluate product scope, feature set, and technical direction
• Perform hands-on design, analysis, and troubleshooting of complex systems
• Direct test engineers and define test strategies, fixtures, validation plans, and acceptance criteria
• Create and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs)
• Work with Contract Manufacturers and ODMs to ensure alignment between design intent, cost targets, and supply chain constraints
• Apply structured design and quality tools (RCCA, FMEA, design reviews) to manage risk and prevent failures
• Support patent generation and prepare technical documentation

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field; master’s degree preferred
• 7+ years of progressive mechanical / electro-mechanical product development experience
• Demonstrated experience leading mechanical products from concept through production
• Strong mechanical fundamentals with the ability to independently solve complex problems
• Hands-on experience with CAD (SolidWorks preferred), BOM management, and design documentation
• Experienced working with external vendors and contract manufacturers, including ODMs / overseas suppliers
• Familiarity with structured problem-solving and risk tools (RCCA, FMEA, fault trees, fishbone)
• Experience designing or overseeing test fixtures, validation systems, and verification plans
• Knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid systems
• Vacuum pump or fluid-handling system experience preferred, not required

Benefits

• Matching 401k up to 4% with immediate vesting
• Excellent medical benefits including an HSA plan and monthly contributions
• Supplemental Term Life, Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), Disability, and more
• Hire to Retire philosophy that includes personal career development plans
• Onsite music program with lessons from guitar, piano and voice coaches

Pay

The California base annual salary range for this role is currently $138,000-160,000 plus 10% bonus. Pay scales are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay is determined through interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to, job-related skills, relevant education and experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate, and pay relative to other team members.