Mechanical Design & Prototyping Engineer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Mechanical Design & Prototyping Engineer

Company: Center for Disability Services

Location: Watervliet, NY, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Engineering / Product Development / Prototyping

Date Posted: 2026-08-11T00:00:00

Experience Level: Mid-level (2-7 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the hands-on mechanical design and rapid prototyping of innovative solutions, particularly within healthcare and assistive technology sectors.

• The engineer will be responsible for transforming early-stage concepts into functional, manufacturable prototypes through design, fabrication, and iterative testing.

• Key activities include operating various shop equipment (3D printers, CNC machines, mills), selecting materials, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to bring new products to life.

• The position requires a strong blend of theoretical engineering knowledge and practical, hands-on fabrication skills to own mechanical subsystems from ideation through to final validation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input data describes a "Mechanical Design & Prototyping Engineer," the context provided (Center for Disability Services, Health Innovations Incubator & Technology Center) strongly suggests this role is deeply embedded in product development for assistive technologies and healthcare solutions. The emphasis on "bringing innovative ideas to life" and "building things that have never existed before" points towards a role that bridges R&D with tangible product creation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Translate abstract concepts and early-stage ideas into detailed, functional mechanical prototype designs using CAD software.

• Design, develop, and refine mechanical components, sub-assemblies, and full systems with a focus on functionality, manufacturability, and user needs.

• Operate and maintain a variety of shop equipment, including but not limited to 3D printers, CNC mills, lathes, saws, and drill presses, ensuring safety and efficiency.

• Execute fabrication, machining, assembly, and testing of prototypes, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail and quality craftsmanship.

• Implement iterative design improvements based on rigorous testing results, real-world constraints, and feedback from multidisciplinary teams.

• Select appropriate materials and fabrication methods, considering factors such as performance requirements, cost-effectiveness, and scalability for potential production.

• Actively collaborate with electrical engineers, software developers, and other stakeholders to ensure integrated system design and functionality.

• Maintain comprehensive and organized documentation of designs, processes, test results, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) for knowledge transfer and future reference.

• Support the transition of successful prototypes into designs that are optimized for manufacturing and scalable production.

• Take ownership of mechanical subsystems, guiding them from initial concept through the entire prototyping lifecycle to final validation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The input lists "support transition from concept to prototype to manufacturable and scalable designs" and "own mechanical subsystems from concept through prototyping and final validation." These are combined and expanded to emphasize the end-to-end ownership and the critical link to manufacturability, a key aspect of product development operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline is required.

• A Master’s degree in Engineering is considered a preferred qualification. Experience:

• 2–7 years of progressive, hands-on engineering and/or fabrication experience is required.

• Experience in rapid prototyping or product development environments is highly preferred.

• Exposure to healthcare, assistive technology, or experimental systems development is a significant plus.

• Experience taking products from concept through validation is preferred. Required Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.

• 2–7 years of hands-on engineering and/or fabrication experience.

• Proven experience with CNC machining and proficiency in operating various shop equipment.

• Strong background in mechanical prototyping, assembly, and iterative design refinement.

• High proficiency in CAD software, with specific experience in SolidWorks or Autodesk Inventor.

• Solid understanding of materials selection and diverse fabrication methods relevant to prototyping.

• Experience operating CNC mills, lathes, and other prototype fabrication equipment.

• Excellent troubleshooting and practical problem-solving skills for mechanical systems.

• Strong documentation practices and clear technical communication abilities.

• Demonstrated knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T). Preferred Skills:

• Experience in rapid prototyping or product development environments.

• Familiarity with healthcare, assistive technology, or experimental engineering systems.

• Proficiency with 3D printing technologies and mixed-material fabrication techniques.

• Experience collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

• Knowledge of Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles to ensure designs are optimized for production.

• Experience guiding products from initial concept through final validation stages.

• 3+ years of specific experience working with Autodesk Inventor.

• Basic understanding and application of Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Structural Analysis, and Design optimization techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The input provided a range of 2-7 years of experience. This is clearly positioned as "Mid-level" to align with standard industry experience bands. The preferred qualifications are detailed to give candidates a clearer understanding of what would make them stand out.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a range of mechanical design and prototyping projects, demonstrating progression from concept to functional prototype.

• Case studies detailing problem identification, design ideation, material selection, fabrication processes, testing methodologies, and iterative improvements.

• Visual documentation (renderings, photos, videos) of prototypes in action, highlighting key features and functionalities.

• Evidence of proficiency in CAD software, with examples of complex assemblies and detailed component designs.

• Demonstrations of experience with various fabrication techniques, including CNC machining and 3D printing. Process Documentation:

• Examples of documented design processes, including requirements gathering, concept generation, and design review phases.

• Workflow examples illustrating the transition from CAD design to physical prototyping, including machining and assembly steps.

• Documentation of testing protocols, results analysis, and how feedback was used for design iteration.

• Clear explanation of material selection rationale and fabrication method choices for specific project constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the hands-on nature of this role, a strong portfolio is crucial. This section outlines what a compelling portfolio should contain, focusing on process, iteration, and demonstrable skills in design and fabrication.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated annual salary range for this position is $75,000 to $95,000 USD. This range is based on the provided compensation information and reflects the experience level, required skills, and location.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical Coverage

• Dental Coverage

• Vision Coverage

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Paid Holidays

• 401K Retirement Option with potential company contributions. Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week.

• While the role is on-site, the environment may offer some flexibility in managing daily schedules, provided project deadlines and team collaboration needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range and benefits are directly incorporated. The "Working Hours" section is enhanced to reflect the full-time, on-site nature while acknowledging potential flexibility within a project-driven environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare / Assistive Technology / Non-profit

Company Size: The Center for Disability Services is a large organization, likely employing over 1,000 individuals, indicating a stable and established entity with significant resources and a broad impact. This size suggests a structured environment with opportunities for collaboration across diverse departments.

Founded: The founding date is not explicitly provided, but the description as the "Center for Disability Services" implies a long-standing commitment to its mission. This history often translates to a culture rooted in dedication, patient care, and community support.

Team Structure:

• The role is situated within the Health Innovations Incubator & Technology Center (HII Tech), suggesting a dedicated R&D or innovation hub.

• This team likely comprises a multidisciplinary group of engineers (mechanical, electrical, software), designers, and potentially project managers, working collaboratively on cutting-edge projects.

• Reporting structure is expected to be within the HII Tech leadership, with a focus on project-based team formations for specific innovation initiatives.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a core element, essential for integrating mechanical designs with electrical and software components to create complete, functional systems. Methodology:

• Data-driven design and decision-making are expected, leveraging testing results and user feedback to refine prototypes.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, especially in a fast-paced prototyping environment where efficiency and rapid iteration are key.

• Automation and efficiency practices will be important for leveraging shop equipment and streamlining the prototyping process.

Company Website: https://www.cfdsny.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description is leveraged to infer culture, team structure, and methodology. The "Health Innovations Incubator & Technology Center (HII Tech)" is highlighted as the specific operational unit for this role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is classified as a Mid-Level Engineer, requiring significant hands-on experience and the ability to work independently on mechanical subsystems. The role demands ownership from concept to validation, indicating a capacity for technical leadership within projects.

Reporting Structure: The engineer will likely report to a lead engineer, engineering manager, or director within the Health Innovations Incubator & Technology Center (HII Tech). Collaboration will be extensive with electrical engineers, software developers, and potentially product managers or researchers.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts product development cycles by enabling the rapid creation and validation of new technologies. The engineer's contributions are crucial for bringing innovative assistive devices and healthcare solutions to fruition, thereby enhancing the quality of life for individuals served by the Center. Successful prototyping accelerates the development timeline and de-risks future manufacturing.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced mechanical design, specific prototyping technologies (e.g., advanced 3D printing, CNC programming), or specialized analysis (FEA, CFD).

• Project Leadership: Progress to leading mechanical aspects of larger innovation projects, managing timelines, resources, and junior team members.

• Product Development Lifecycle: Gain comprehensive experience across the entire product development spectrum, from ideation and R&D to DFM and potential production support.

• Cross-Functional Expertise: Develop a broader understanding of electrical and software engineering through close collaboration, potentially leading to roles with more integrated system design responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section extrapolates growth paths typical for a mid-level engineering role in an innovation-focused setting, emphasizing technical depth, project management, and cross-functional understanding.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is a hybrid of office-based CAD work and hands-on lab/workshop activities. This includes time spent at a computer for design and documentation, as well as in a prototyping lab and workshop for fabrication and assembly.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is in Watervliet, NY, within the HII Tech facility. This location provides access to specialized equipment and a collaborative innovation space.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed for rapid iteration, encouraging movement between CAD stations, fabrication equipment, and assembly benches.

• Access to a range of operations tools and technology, including advanced CAD software, CNC machines, 3D printers, and testing equipment, is provided.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with a multidisciplinary team (electrical, software, project management) are inherent to the role's collaborative nature.

Work Schedule: This is a full-time, on-site position. While a standard work week is expected, the fast-paced, project-driven nature of innovation may sometimes require flexibility to meet critical deadlines or complete urgent testing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Work Environment" is detailed by combining information about the lab/workshop setting, the need to move between different task types, and the collaborative nature of an innovation center.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, relevant experience, and demonstrated skills in mechanical design and prototyping.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion covering mechanical engineering principles, CAD proficiency, fabrication techniques, GD&T, and problem-solving approaches. Expect questions related to past projects and challenges.

• Hands-on Assessment/Case Study: Potentially a practical exercise or a detailed case study presentation where you explain a past project, focusing on your design process, fabrication challenges, and solutions. This is where your portfolio will be heavily referenced.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members and leadership to assess collaboration style, communication skills, adaptability, and alignment with the Center's mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Showcase 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent the required skills (CAD, fabrication, GD&T, problem-solving, iterative design).

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your design approach, the tools and techniques used, the challenges encountered, your solutions, and the final outcome/impact.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize the iterative nature of your work, showing how you refined designs based on testing and feedback. Include photos/videos of prototypes at various stages of development.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., weight reduction, performance improvement, cost savings).

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical details of your designs, material choices, manufacturing considerations, and any analysis performed (e.g., basic FEA).

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Thinking: Be ready to discuss how you approach a new design problem, from understanding requirements to ideation and prototyping.

• Troubleshooting Scenarios: Prepare examples of complex mechanical problems you've solved and your systematic approach to diagnostics and resolution.

• Fabrication Logistics: Think about how you select materials and fabrication methods for different project constraints (e.g., speed, cost, material properties).

• Collaboration Examples: Prepare examples of how you've worked effectively with electrical and software engineers on integrated systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates, focusing on how to present their qualifications and prepare for interviews, especially emphasizing the portfolio's role in showcasing practical skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: High proficiency in SolidWorks or Autodesk Inventor is essential. Experience with other CAD platforms may also be beneficial.

• CNC Machining Software: Familiarity with CAM software for programming CNC mills and lathes.

• 3D Printing Technologies: Experience with various 3D printing methods (e.g., FDM, SLA, SLS) and associated slicing software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Documentation Tools: Proficiency in creating detailed technical documentation, reports, and presentations (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace).

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Jira, Asana, or Trello for tracking project progress and tasks.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how prototypes integrate into broader product development pipelines is key.

• Version Control: Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git) for managing CAD files and design iterations can be advantageous.

• Simulation Software: Basic familiarity with FEA or structural analysis software (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL) is preferred.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is populated with the CAD software explicitly mentioned and expands to include other tools and technologies commonly used in mechanical design and prototyping environments, aligning with the role's responsibilities.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Creativity: A strong emphasis on developing novel solutions and fostering an environment where new ideas are encouraged and explored.

• Hands-on Execution: A culture that values practical application and the ability to translate ideas into tangible prototypes through skilled fabrication.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Essential for integrating mechanical designs with electrical and software components, requiring open communication and shared problem-solving.

• Mission-Driven Impact: A deep commitment to improving the lives of individuals through assistive technology and healthcare innovations, providing a strong sense of purpose.

• Continuous Improvement: An iterative approach to design and development, valuing feedback and refinement to achieve optimal outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Engineers are expected to work closely with peers from different disciplines, requiring clear communication of technical specifications and constraints.

• Iterative Feedback Loops: A culture that embraces constructive criticism and rapid feedback cycles to accelerate the prototyping and design refinement process.

• Knowledge Sharing: An environment where team members are encouraged to share expertise, best practices, and lessons learned to collectively advance project goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission and the nature of an innovation center suggest specific values and collaboration styles that are critical for success in this role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Iteration Under Pressure: Balancing the need for speed in prototyping with maintaining high standards of design and fabrication quality.

• Ambiguity in Early Concepts: Translating nascent, sometimes vague, ideas into concrete engineering designs and functional prototypes.

• Multidisciplinary Integration: Ensuring seamless integration of mechanical components with electrical and software systems, requiring effective cross-functional communication and problem-solving.

• Material and Process Selection: Choosing the most appropriate materials and fabrication methods for unique applications with potentially limited prior data.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Prototyping Techniques: Opportunities to learn and master new 3D printing technologies, advanced CNC programming, or novel fabrication methods.

• Specialized Analysis Skills: Developing deeper expertise in FEA, structural analysis, or thermal management relevant to product design.

• Product Lifecycle Management: Gaining comprehensive exposure to the entire product development process, from ideation through to DFM and manufacturing considerations.

• Industry Exposure: Working on projects at the forefront of healthcare and assistive technology, providing insights into emerging trends and user needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed around the core aspects of rapid prototyping and innovation, while growth opportunities highlight skill development within the specific domain.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex mechanical prototype you designed and built. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your design process, problem-solving, and iteration.)

• "How do you approach translating a conceptual idea into a detailed CAD design and then into a physical prototype?" (Explain your workflow from concept to reality.)

• "Walk me through your experience with CNC machining and 3D printing. What are the advantages and limitations of each for rapid prototyping?" (Demonstrate practical fabrication knowledge.)

• "How do you ensure your mechanical designs are compatible with electrical and software components in an integrated system?" (Highlight your cross-functional collaboration experience.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working with assistive technology and healthcare innovations at the Center for Disability Services?" (Connect your passion to the company's mission.)

• "How do you handle competing priorities and tight deadlines in a fast-paced R&D environment?" (Showcase your adaptability and time management skills.)

• "Describe a time you had to learn a new technology or fabrication technique quickly for a project." (Illustrate your learning agility.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Narrative: Structure your portfolio presentations around clear project stories: Problem -> Solution -> Process -> Outcome.

• Visuals are Key: Use high-quality images, videos, and CAD renderings to showcase your work. Show prototypes at different stages of development.

• Technical Deep Dive: Be prepared to discuss the technical specifications, material properties, GD&T callouts, and manufacturing considerations for your designs.

• Demonstrate Iteration: Explicitly show how you used testing and feedback to refine your designs, highlighting your problem-solving and adaptability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are tailored to probe for the specific skills and experiences required for a Mechanical Design & Prototyping Engineer, with a strong emphasis on practical application and problem-solving.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Mechanical Design & Prototyping Engineer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience with mechanical design, prototyping, fabrication (CNC, 3D printing), CAD software (SolidWorks/Inventor), and GD&T. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a digital portfolio (e.g., PDF, personal website) showcasing your most relevant projects. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your design process, fabrication skills, problem-solving abilities, and iterative development. Be ready to walk through 2-3 key projects in detail.

• Research the Center: Understand the mission and work of the Center for Disability Services, particularly the Health Innovations Incubator & Technology Center (HII Tech). Familiarize yourself with the types of assistive technologies or healthcare solutions they might be developing.

• Practice Your Pitch: Prepare to articulate your passion for innovation, your hands-on capabilities, and how your skills align with the role's requirements and the company's mission. Practice explaining complex technical concepts clearly and concisely.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.