Mechanical Engineering Design Lead

About the role

IDEO is seeking a lead engineer to guide interdisciplinary teams in the creation of physical products and services. This role focuses on managing the full development lifecycle while mentoring junior staff and collaborating with design and business leadership.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Direct mechanical design activities from initial concept through to final implementation.
• Act as the primary technical contact for multi-disciplinary project teams.
• Integrate climate goals, life cycle analysis, and material science into product development.
• Mentor junior engineers on manufacturing sourcing and design principles.
• Communicate design intent using CAD, visual storytelling, and physical prototypes.
• Collaborate with research and business partners to establish project strategy.
• Develop high-fidelity functional prototypes using machine tools and 3D printers.
• Facilitate user research, including ethnographic studies and participatory workshops.
• Represent the firm during client presentations and workshops.

Requirements

• 5-7+ years of professional experience in mechanical engineering or product design.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software, specifically SolidWorks, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Hands-on experience with rapid prototyping tools such as CNC, laser cutting, and manual machining.
• Demonstrated success in launching products and managing manufacturing partnerships.
• Expertise in at least one of the following: complex mechanism design, structural packaging, health and life sciences, injection molding, design for manufacturing and assembly, or proof-of-concept prototyping.
• Experience leading small teams and mentoring junior personnel.
• Background in startup environments or client-service studios.
• Must be within a commutable distance of the San Francisco studio.

Nice to have

• Skill in UI/UX design tools like Figma, Framer, or ProtoPie.
• Experience with mechatronics, Python, or Arduino.
• Proficiency in photography or videography for storytelling.

Skills & tools

• SolidWorks
• Adobe Creative Suite
• CNC and laser cutting
• 3D printing
• Mechanism design
• Injection molding
• Design for Manufacturing (DFM)

Practical notes

Salary range is $110,000-$130,000 USD, determined by experience and industry knowledge. Benefits include health, vision, and dental insurance, 401K matching, and flexible time off. Family support includes parental leave, adoption and fertility assistance, and dependent care. Additional perks include an annual education stipend, home office stipend, and support for transgender medical needs.