Mechanical Engineer - job 1 of 2

As a Mechanical Engineer at Lime, you'll take on a variety of exciting responsibilities that include defining, designing, and delivering innovative electric vehicles and micromobility infrastructure. You'll own the development of complex subsystems, create detailed mechanical designs using CAD, and collaborate with our Operations team to ensure robustness in your designs. Prototyping and testing will play a significant role in your daily activities, enabling you to validate new ideas. Your involvement will also extend to producing thorough technical documentation utilizing GD&T standards.

To be considered for the Mechanical Engineer position at Lime, you should have at least a BSc or MSc in Mechanical Engineering or an equivalent field, along with a minimum of 3 years of mechanical design experience. Familiarity with CAD software, particularly SolidWorks, is essential, and you should possess skills in creating engineering drawings and conducting tolerance analyses. A penchant for hands-on prototyping and strong problem-solving abilities are also key qualifications for this role.

The work environment for a Mechanical Engineer at Lime is collaborative and fast-paced, with a strong emphasis on creativity and innovation. Being part of the Hardware Development Lab in San Francisco, you'll engage with a diverse group of talented professionals. The role requires a mix of in-office work for prototyping and testing, and you'll enjoy the freedom to work independently on design projects while regularly seeking feedback from the team to refine your ideas.

Lime is committed to supporting the professional development of its Mechanical Engineers by providing opportunities for hands-on experience, cross-functional collaboration, and global travel to work with overseas suppliers. The company encourages a culture of continuous learning and teamwork, which allows engineers to grow their skills and expand their knowledge within the dynamic micromobility space.

A Mechanical Engineer at Lime will encounter unique challenges such as designing durable products capable of withstanding harsh environmental conditions and intensive use. You’ll also need to innovate within the constraints of cost-effectiveness and manufacturability. Additionally, working on the technical aspects of micromobility infrastructure requires a creative approach to problem-solving, making this role both challenging and rewarding.

In my previous mechanical design roles, I've gained extensive experience using CAD software, particularly SolidWorks, to create detailed and precise engineering drawings. My ability to leverage CAD tools has enabled me to streamline the design process, enhance the accuracy of components, and efficiently collaborate with cross-functional teams by sharing designs and incorporating feedback.

When prototyping a new design, I start by defining the core requirements and functionalities of the product. I then develop a series of sketches or 3D models to visualize concepts before deciding on materials and manufacturing processes. After building a prototype, I conduct rigorous testing to validate the design against performance metrics and user expectations, making iterative adjustments as needed.

My process for conducting tolerance analyses begins with identifying key dimensions and features that affect part assemblies. I then apply statistical methods to assess the cumulative effect of tolerances on the final assembly and ensure that the design tolerances meet functional and manufacturability requirements. This comprehensive approach helps mitigate risks of assembly issues and enhances product reliability.

In my last position, I faced a significant challenge related to the durability of plastic components in high-stress environments. After conducting a thorough analysis, I identified material properties that were insufficient for the intended application. By collaborating with suppliers and exploring alternative materials, I developed a solution that increased the longevity and performance of the components, which ultimately improved customer satisfaction.

To prioritize multiple projects with tight deadlines, I first assess the urgency and impact of each project. I establish a clear timeline and break down each task into manageable components. Using project management tools, I track progress and adjust priorities as necessary, ensuring communication with stakeholders to keep everyone aligned and informed throughout the process.

Teamwork is essential in the mechanical engineering process as it fosters collaboration and encourages diverse perspectives. Effective communication with team members allows us to integrate various areas of expertise—like design, manufacturing, and testing—resulting in innovative solutions. By staying engaged and soliciting feedback, we enhance the quality of our designs and the overall success of projects.

In my experience, testing and validation are critical stages of product development. I design test plans according to product specifications and objectives, ensuring comprehensive validation under different scenarios. I analyze test results to derive insights on product performance and identify any required changes early in the design process, allowing us to mitigate risks before mass production.

I am deeply interested in working in the micromobility industry because it represents a transformative shift in how people navigate urban environments. The challenge of developing sustainable and efficient transportation solutions excites me, as I believe it can significantly reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions. Working for a pioneering company like Lime aligns with my passion for innovation and sustainability.

To ensure my designs are manufacturable, I conduct initial discussions with manufacturing teams during the design phase, focusing on their capabilities and limitations. I also apply design for manufacturability (DFM) principles, and regularly review the prototype against cost and production constraints. This proactive approach allows me to adjust designs early on and optimize them for practical manufacturing processes.

To stay updated with advances in mechanical engineering, I actively participate in industry conferences, subscribe to relevant journals, and engage in online communities. I also pursue additional coursework and training that align with emerging technologies and practices in the field. By continuously learning and networking, I can bring fresh insights and innovative ideas to my role.