Senior Mechanical Engineer - job 1 of 2

As a Senior Mechanical Engineer at Freeform, your primary responsibilities include leading mechanical design projects, conducting research, and developing complex mechanical systems. You'll perform tolerance analyses, test designs for feasibility, and build systems hands-on, ensuring they meet rigorous performance standards. Successful candidates are expected to innovate consistently while delivering results across a diverse range of engineering disciplines.

To qualify for the Senior Mechanical Engineer position at Freeform, you need at least a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field, along with a minimum of 5 years of experience in mechanical systems design. Familiarity with CAD tools and strong mechanical engineering fundamentals are essential. A deep understanding of hands-on hardware development and complex mechanical systems will further enhance your candidacy. Additional experience in advanced robotics or industrial automation can be beneficial.

No, 3D printing experience is not a requirement for the Senior Mechanical Engineer position at Freeform. The company prioritizes smart, motivated candidates with a passion for engineering and problem-solving. While having knowledge of 3D printing technology can be an asset, your ability to navigate complex mechanical systems and collaborate across teams is what we truly value.

Freeform boasts a lively and inclusive work environment in a state-of-the-art facility located in Hawthorne, CA. With ample collaboration spaces, access to vibrant tech ecosystems, and a casual dress code, the company fosters both innovation and team spirit. Employees enjoy flexible work hours, regular catered meals, and a strong emphasis on professional development.

At Freeform, Senior Mechanical Engineers can expect a comprehensive benefits package including fully employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance, significant stock options, 401(k) plans, and generous paid parental leave. The company also provides relocation assistance and regularly plans team-building events to enhance workplace camaraderie.

In your response, focus on specific CAD tools you've used and how they helped you create detailed drawings and documentation for mechanical systems. Share examples of past projects where your CAD experience led to successful outcomes, showcasing your attention to detail and technical skills.

Provide a structured approach to problem-solving, perhaps using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Highlight an example from your past where you successfully identified a problem, developed a solution, and implemented it, demonstrating your analytical and critical thinking skills.

Discuss your methods for conducting thorough tests, performing tolerance analyses, and identifying potential points of failure in mechanical systems. Emphasize using a systematic approach and continuous improvement efforts you’ve employed in previous projects.

Share a specific instance where you took the lead on a project and collaborated with members from different engineering disciplines. Focus on your communication skills, the strategies you used to coordinate efforts, and the successful outcome of the project.

Explain your understanding of design for manufacturability (DFM) principles, including material selection, process constraints, and how your designs reduce production costs while maintaining quality. Provide examples of your past designs that successfully considered manufacturability.

Share specific examples where your contributions led to innovative solutions, such as new design practices or system improvements. Discuss your mindset toward experimentation and learning from failures to drive change.

Identify challenges such as dealing with complex assemblies or the integration of systems. Describe how you tackled these challenges, what strategies you implemented, and what you learned from the experience.

Discuss the ways you engage with the engineering community, such as attending workshops, participating in webinars, reading industry publications, or enrolling in courses. Highlight specific trends that excite you and how you envision them impacting your work.

Discuss the importance of tolerance analysis in ensuring that parts fit and function as intended within a mechanism. Talk about the methodologies you use and how they prevent costly rework or failures during the production phase.

Express your enthusiasm for Freeform's innovation in the 3D printing field and your desire to contribute to such groundbreaking technology. Share how your values align with the company's mission and culture, and what unique skills you bring to the role.