Senior Mechanical Engineer / Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Mechanical Engineer / Product Designer

Company: Embross

Location: Richmond Hill, ON, CA

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Engineering / Product Design

Date Posted: 2026-07-29

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This senior-level role is pivotal in translating complex product concepts into scalable, manufacturable, and sustainable hardware solutions.

• You will lead mechanical and industrial design efforts for self-service hardware programs, ensuring Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) best practices are integrated from concept to production release.

• The position requires a strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials science, and system integration to optimize product development pipelines for efficiency and error minimization.

• You will serve as a subject matter expert, driving technical design reviews and collaborating with cross-functional teams to define the product design ethos, balancing form, function, and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior individual contributor with significant influence over product development processes and technical decisions, particularly concerning manufacturability and design optimization. The emphasis on DFM/DFA, supply chain engagement, and process improvement suggests a strong focus on operational efficiency within the product lifecycle.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the mechanical and industrial design development of specific programs within Embross's self-service hardware portfolio, utilizing Solidworks as a primary tool.

• Drive critical DFM/DFA decisions across semi-complex assemblies that incorporate sheet metal, machined parts, structural plastics, and electro-mechanical components.

• Produce and review detailed 3D CAD models, comprehensive manufacturing drawings, and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) documentation, including thorough tolerance analyses.

• Facilitate rapid prototyping of concepts through in-house and outsourced resources, leveraging technologies such as FDM/SLA 3D printing, CNC machining, and low-volume tooling.

• Engage directly with Embross's in-house fabrication supply chain to optimize design intent for production, actively identifying cost-saving opportunities, potential for part consolidation, and procedural improvements.

• Ensure rigorous adherence to proper revision control, Engineering Change Orders (ECOs), and comprehensive design documentation throughout the entire product development lifecycle.

• Lead and contribute to technical design reviews, fostering collaboration with team members and acting as a subject matter expert in areas such as materials selection, process engineering, and system integration.

• Contribute to the overarching product design ethos, ensuring a harmonious balance between aesthetic form, functional performance, operational efficiency, and robust serviceability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on engineering role with significant oversight and decision-making authority. The emphasis on DFM/DFA, supply chain interaction, and documentation control points towards a need for meticulous attention to detail and a strong process-oriented mindset, crucial for efficient product lifecycle management in a manufacturing environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Master of Science (M.S.) in Mechanical Engineering, Product Design Engineering, or a closely related technical field. Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of hands-on professional experience in mechanical engineering, industrial design, or product design.

• Demonstrated experience in bringing products to market at scale, with a strong track record in hardware development. Required Skills:

• Expert-level knowledge of Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles, with practical application in product development.

• Deep familiarity with a wide range of manufacturing processes, including but not limited to: sheet metal fabrication, injection molding, die casting, CNC machining, and various surface finishing techniques.

• Proficiency in Solidworks for 3D CAD modeling, part design, and assembly creation.

• Experience in generating detailed manufacturing drawings, applying GD&T, and conducting tolerance analyses.

• Strong grasp of materials science, including selection criteria, properties, and applications for various engineering materials.

• Understanding of part tolerancing, fastener selection best practices, and fundamental thermal and structural considerations in product design.

• Proven ability to interface directly with manufacturers and suppliers throughout the tooling, pilot run, and production ramp-up phases.

• Excellent communication skills, capable of producing detailed technical drawings, comprehensive supplier handoff packages, and compelling executive design presentations. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems.

• Familiarity with basic Finite Element Analysis (FEA) or tolerance simulation tools.

• Proficiency in additional design and rendering software such as Keyshot, Rhino, or Blender.

• Background in self-service technology, transportation, or public automation systems.

• Experience integrating electronic components such as displays, sensors, cameras, or PCBA assemblies into mechanical enclosures.

• Familiarity with international compliance and environmental certifications (e.g., CE, FCC, ADA, UL).

• A passion for solving real-world operational challenges through smart, human-centered design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a blend of deep technical expertise in mechanical design and manufacturing processes with practical experience in product commercialization. The preference for specific software and industry experience, along with a passion for user-centric design, indicates a desire for a well-rounded senior engineer who can contribute strategically and tactically.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of mechanical design projects, demonstrating proficiency in 3D CAD modeling and detailing.

• Include case studies that highlight your direct contribution to Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA), detailing specific improvements or optimizations you implemented.

• Present examples of manufacturing drawings with GD&T, tolerance analyses, and Bill of Materials (BOM) structures.

• Feature projects where you collaborated with manufacturing partners or supply chains, illustrating your role in production ramp-up, cost reduction, or process improvement initiatives.

• Demonstrate experience with rapid prototyping methods and how they informed design decisions. Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of design documentation, such as ECOs, revision control logs, or technical specifications that guided product development.

• Illustrate your approach to managing design projects from concept through to production release, highlighting key milestones and decision points.

• Showcase how you have documented manufacturing processes or design intent for supplier handoffs to ensure product quality and consistency.

• Include documentation related to material selection, component sourcing, or system integration strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Mechanical Engineer/Product Designer, a portfolio is critical for demonstrating practical application of design principles and manufacturing knowledge. The emphasis should be on tangible results and process rigor, showcasing the candidate's ability to not only design but also to ensure designs are feasible, cost-effective, and scalable for mass production.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Mechanical Engineers/Product Designers with 10+ years of experience in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), the estimated annual salary range is between CAD $110,000 and CAD $150,000. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific expertise, the depth of their experience in relevant industries (like kiosks or self-service technology), and their performance during the interview process.

Benefits:

• Employer-paid Health, Wellness, and Lifestyle Benefits: Comprehensive coverage including Health, Dental, and Vision insurance.

• Life Insurance: Employer-provided life insurance policy.

• Short-Term Disability (STD) and Long-Term Disability (LTD) Benefits: Financial protection against temporary or long-term inability to work due to illness or injury.

• Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) Contribution: A minimum of 3% of base salary contributed by the employer towards your GRSP.

• Performance-based Profit-Sharing Program: Opportunity to share in the company's financial success through performance-driven profit sharing.

• Flexible Working Environment: Options for flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance.

• Frequent Social Events: Company-sponsored social activities such as BBQs, bowling, picnics, and parties to foster team cohesion and a positive work environment. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• The company offers a flexible working environment, which may include some flexibility in daily start/end times, subject to team and operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on data from reputable Canadian salary aggregators and industry reports for senior engineering roles in the GTA. The benefits package is comprehensive, reflecting a strong commitment to employee well-being, financial security, and work-life balance, with particular emphasis on health coverage and retirement savings.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Embross operates within the technology and manufacturing sectors, specifically focusing on self-service hardware solutions for airports and airlines. This industry demands innovation, reliability, and a keen understanding of operational efficiency in high-traffic environments.

Company Size: Embross is a significant player in its niche, likely employing a substantial number of individuals across various departments, including design, engineering, manufacturing, sales, and support. A company of this nature often fosters a culture of expertise and collaboration.

Founded: Embross has been in operation for a sufficient period to establish itself as a leader, suggesting a stable and experienced organization with a deep understanding of its market. This implies a culture that values experience and long-term strategic thinking.

Team Structure:

• The design and engineering team is likely composed of specialized engineers and designers, including mechanical, electrical, and software disciplines, working collaboratively on product development.

• Reporting structures will likely involve a Lead Engineer or Engineering Manager, with senior members like this role guiding technical direction and mentoring junior staff.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving regular interaction with product management, manufacturing, quality assurance, and potentially sales/customer support teams to ensure product success from conception to deployment and service. Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven design decisions, utilizing performance metrics and feedback from existing deployments to inform new product development.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies are crucial to streamline the product development lifecycle, ensuring efficient use of resources and timely delivery.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely integrated into design and manufacturing processes to reduce costs, improve quality, and accelerate time-to-market.

Company Website: https://www.embross.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Embross's focus on airport and airline solutions implies a need for robust, user-friendly, and highly reliable hardware. The company culture likely values innovation, precision, and a strong customer-centric approach, with the engineering team playing a critical role in delivering these qualities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is designated as "Senior," indicating a level of expertise and autonomy beyond mid-level positions. It signifies a professional capable of leading complex technical projects, mentoring junior engineers, and influencing design and manufacturing strategies. The scope includes end-to-end product design responsibilities, from initial concept to production release, with a strong emphasis on manufacturability and efficiency.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Mechanical Engineer / Product Designer will likely report to an Engineering Manager, Director of Engineering, or a similar leadership role within the product development or engineering department. They will collaborate closely with peers across engineering disciplines (electrical, software) and with manufacturing, product management, and supply chain teams.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on the operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness of Embross's products. By optimizing designs for manufacturability and assembly, the engineer can reduce production costs, minimize waste, improve product reliability, and shorten lead times. This, in turn, enhances the company's competitive edge, profitability, and customer satisfaction by delivering high-quality, efficient self-service solutions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced materials, complex electro-mechanical systems, thermal management, or specific manufacturing processes relevant to Embross's product lines.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into roles such as Lead Engineer, Engineering Manager, or Principal Engineer, which involve greater project leadership, team management, and strategic decision-making.

• Product Strategy Contribution: Involvement in early-stage product ideation and strategy, contributing to the long-term vision and roadmap of Embross's self-service hardware portfolio.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Opportunities to gain broader experience by working closely with different departments, understanding the full product lifecycle and business operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" designation, coupled with the responsibilities, suggests a clear path for growth into leadership or deep technical specialization. Embross's description of "build-from-within" and commitment to career development reinforces this, indicating a company that invests in its employees' long-term progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as Hybrid, indicating a blend of in-office and remote work. The in-office component is crucial for hands-on engineering tasks, collaboration, and access to specialized equipment and facilities.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Richmond Hill, ON, Canada. This area is part of the Greater Toronto Area, offering a robust talent pool and access to a strong industrial and technological ecosystem.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office space likely supports collaborative work, with design studios, meeting rooms, and shared workspaces designed for team interaction and brainstorming.

• Tools and Technology: Access to state-of-the-art engineering software (Solidworks, potentially FEA/rendering tools), rapid prototyping equipment (3D printers, CNC access), and potentially a fabrication lab or close proximity to manufacturing facilities will be available.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular face-to-face interaction with fellow engineers, designers, and cross-functional team members, fostering a dynamic and knowledge-sharing atmosphere.

Work Schedule:

• While a standard 40-hour work week is typical, the "flexible working environment" suggests some adaptability in daily schedules to accommodate project deadlines, personal needs, and team collaboration requirements. This flexibility is beneficial for engineers who may need focused, uninterrupted time for design work or need to coordinate with global suppliers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role is typical for senior engineering positions, balancing the need for focused individual work with essential in-person collaboration and access to physical resources. The Richmond Hill location places the role within a significant economic hub in Canada.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess alignment with the technical requirements and experience level.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on mechanical engineering principles, product design methodologies, DFM/DFA expertise, and proficiency with Solidworks and other relevant tools. Expect scenario-based questions and problem-solving exercises related to design challenges.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, design decisions, challenges overcome, and the impact of your contributions, particularly concerning manufacturability and efficiency.

• Cross-Functional/Team Interview: Meetings with potential colleagues and stakeholders from manufacturing, product management, or other engineering disciplines to evaluate collaboration style, communication skills, and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: Often with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, strategic thinking, and long-term career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best showcase your expertise in mechanical engineering, product design, DFM/DFA, and problem-solving. Prioritize projects with tangible results and clear demonstrations of your contributions.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your specific role and responsibilities, the design solutions you developed, the manufacturing processes involved, and any quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, improved yield, reduced assembly time, enhanced durability).

• Highlight DFM/DFA: Dedicate specific slides or sections to illustrate how you applied DFM/DFA principles. Show before-and-after examples, discuss trade-offs considered, and explain how your design choices facilitated manufacturing and assembly.

• Showcase Technical Rigor: Include examples of detailed drawings, GD&T applications, tolerance analyses, and material justifications. Explain your thought process behind these technical decisions.

• Practice Your Narrative: Be prepared to walk through your projects smoothly, explaining complex technical details in a clear and concise manner. Practice presenting your work to simulate the actual interview setting.

Challenge Preparation:

• DFM/DFA Case Study: Be ready to analyze a hypothetical product or assembly and identify potential design improvements for manufacturability and assembly. Think about material choices, part consolidation, tooling considerations, and assembly sequences.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would approach common engineering challenges, such as resolving a manufacturing defect, optimizing a design for cost reduction, or integrating new components into an existing product.

• Solidworks Proficiency: While not always a live test, be prepared to discuss your workflow in Solidworks and how you leverage its features for complex designs and documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is paramount for this role. Candidates should proactively prepare to articulate the "why" and "how" behind their design choices, with a clear emphasis on the practical implications for manufacturing and operational efficiency, aligning with Embross's product development philosophy.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Solidworks: This is the primary CAD software mentioned. Proficiency in creating complex 3D models, assemblies, detailed drawings, and utilizing its simulation features (if applicable) is essential.

• PLM Systems: Experience with Product Lifecycle Management systems for managing product data, revisions, and documentation throughout the development process is highly desirable.

• FEA/Tolerance Simulation Tools: Basic knowledge and experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for structural or thermal simulations, or tolerance analysis tools, would be beneficial for validating designs.

• Keyshot, Rhino, Blender: Proficiency in these additional rendering or CAD tools is considered a plus, indicating a broader skillset in visualization and design exploration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated as primary tools for this role, engineers often utilize data from testing, simulations, and manufacturing feedback to inform design iterations. This may involve basic data analysis in spreadsheets or specialized engineering analysis software. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this engineering role, but understanding how product designs feed into broader company systems (like ERP for manufacturing planning) is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily skewed towards CAD and engineering design tools, with a strong emphasis on Solidworks. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these tools in detail, particularly how they are used to facilitate DFM/DFA and produce robust manufacturing documentation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Excellence: A drive to create cutting-edge, high-performance self-service solutions that push technological boundaries.

• Quality & Reliability: A commitment to designing and delivering products that are robust, dependable, and meet stringent operational requirements in demanding environments.

• Efficiency & Optimization: A focus on streamlining processes, reducing costs, and maximizing the effectiveness of both product design and manufacturing operations.

• Collaboration & Respect: Fostering a supportive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and teamwork is essential for achieving common goals.

• Customer Focus: A dedication to understanding and meeting the needs of clients (airports, airlines) and end-users (passengers) through intelligent, human-centered design.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with teams from product management, electrical/software engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain to ensure a holistic approach to product development.

• Proactive Communication: Open and transparent communication regarding design challenges, manufacturing considerations, and potential solutions, ensuring all stakeholders are informed and aligned.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages the sharing of technical expertise, lessons learned, and best practices to collectively elevate the team's capabilities.

• Constructive Feedback: A willingness to provide and receive constructive feedback during design reviews and project discussions to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Embross likely values a culture where engineering excellence meets practical application. The emphasis on DFM/DFA and operational efficiency suggests that while innovation is key, it must be grounded in manufacturability and cost-effectiveness. A collaborative and respectful environment is also highlighted as crucial for success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Form, Function, and Cost: A constant challenge will be to reconcile aesthetic design and functional requirements with manufacturing feasibility and cost targets, especially for high-volume products.

• Rapid Technology Evolution: The self-service technology landscape is dynamic. Staying abreast of new materials, manufacturing techniques, and electronic component advancements to ensure Embross's products remain competitive.

• Global Supply Chain Complexity: Navigating the intricacies of global supply chains for components and manufacturing, including potential disruptions, quality control, and lead time management.

• Integration of Complex Systems: Designing enclosures and mechanical systems that seamlessly integrate diverse electronic components (displays, sensors, processors, payment systems) while meeting environmental and ruggedness standards.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Materials & Manufacturing: Opportunities to explore and implement new materials or advanced manufacturing processes to enhance product performance and reduce costs.

• Leadership in Design: Growing into a technical leadership role, guiding junior engineers, defining design standards, and contributing to strategic product roadmaps.

• Industry Certifications & Training: Pursuing specialized training or certifications in areas like advanced Solidworks simulation, materials science, or specific manufacturing technologies.

• Cross-Disciplinary Projects: Gaining exposure to electrical and software engineering aspects of product development, leading to a more holistic understanding of product design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior product design roles in hardware manufacturing. They offer significant opportunities for problem-solving and continuous learning, which are key drivers for growth and development within Embross.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex mechanical design project where you significantly improved its manufacturability or reduced its production cost. What specific DFM/DFA principles did you apply, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on quantifiable results and your specific role).

• "How do you approach tolerance analysis for a critical assembly? Walk me through your process and the tools you typically use." (Demonstrate methodical thinking and technical depth).

• "Imagine a scenario where a supplier is having trouble meeting the quality standards for a key component. How would you collaborate with them to resolve the issue while ensuring product delivery timelines?" (Highlight problem-solving, communication, and supplier management skills). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about Embross and our role in the airport/airline technology sector?" (Research Embross's products, mission, and recent news. Connect your passion for design and efficiency to their market).

• "How do you balance aesthetic design with functional requirements and manufacturing constraints?" (Showcase your understanding of product development trade-offs and your ability to integrate form, function, and efficiency).

• "Describe a time you had to present a complex technical design to a non-technical audience. How did you ensure they understood the key aspects and implications?" (Focus on clear communication and stakeholder management). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best exemplify your expertise in mechanical design, DFM/DFA, and driving products to market.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your solution, the design process, manufacturing considerations, challenges, and quantifiable results. Use visuals (CAD renderings, drawings, photos) effectively.

• Emphasize DFM/DFA: Dedicate specific points to how you improved manufacturability and assembly. Use terms like "part consolidation," "tooling optimization," "reduced assembly steps," "material selection for cost/performance."

• Highlight Collaboration: Mention how you worked with manufacturing, suppliers, and other engineering disciplines.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical decisions, calculations, and material choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their experience with specific examples that demonstrate not only technical skill but also strategic thinking about efficiency, cost, and product lifecycle management. The interview will likely assess their ability to think like a senior engineer who understands the broader business implications of design decisions.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Mechanical Engineer / Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP WorkNow link.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your 10+ years of experience in mechanical engineering and product design, with a strong emphasis on DFM/DFA, Solidworks proficiency, and experience with manufacturing processes relevant to Embross's industry.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details achievements related to product development lifecycle management, cost reduction through design, and successful product launches. Use keywords such as "Solidworks," "DFM," "DFA," "GD&T," "sheet metal," "injection molding," and "supply chain."

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on your contributions to manufacturability and operational efficiency. Prepare to discuss technical challenges and your problem-solving approach using the STAR method.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Embross's product offerings, their market position in self-service technology, and their company values. Understand their focus on passenger experience and operational efficiency.

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

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