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: 2026-08-31T21:30:00

Experience Level: Senior (10+ years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead mechanical and industrial design for Embross's self-service hardware portfolio, utilizing advanced CAD software like Solidworks.

• Champion Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles to ensure scalability, cost-effectiveness, and efficient production.

• Manage the end-to-end product development lifecycle, from initial concept ideation through to successful production release.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain, to optimize product design for operational efficiency and robust serviceability.

• Drive innovation in product design by balancing form, function, and user experience with practical manufacturing considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior contributor with significant ownership over product design and engineering outcomes. The emphasis on DFM/DFA, end-to-end lifecycle management, and cross-functional collaboration indicates a need for strong leadership and strategic thinking in product development.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

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

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

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

• Facilitate rapid prototyping of concepts using in-house and outsourced resources, including 3D printing (FDM/SLA), CNC machining, and low-volume tooling.

• Engage directly with Embross's in-house fabrication supply chain to translate design intent into manufacturable products, identifying cost-saving opportunities, part consolidation, and process improvements.

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

• Lead technical design reviews, foster collaboration with diverse team members, and act as a subject matter expert in materials science, process selection, and system integration.

• Contribute to the overall product design ethos, harmonizing aesthetic appeal and functional performance with operational efficiency and long-term serviceability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on engineering role that also requires significant strategic input and leadership in manufacturing process optimization. The mention of specific manufacturing techniques and documentation types points to a need for deep technical expertise in mechanical design and production.

🎓 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 progressive, hands-on experience in mechanical engineering, industrial design, or product design.

• Demonstrated experience in bringing complex products to market at scale, with a strong preference for backgrounds in kiosks, interactive terminals, or consumer/commercial electronics. Required Skills:

• Expert-level knowledge and practical application of Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles.

• Deep familiarity with a wide range of manufacturing processes, including sheet metal fabrication, injection molding, die casting, CNC machining, and various surface finishing techniques.

• Proven experience in directly interfacing with manufacturers and suppliers during tooling development, pilot runs, and production ramp-up phases.

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

• Solid understanding of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems for managing product data and revisions.

• Strong grasp of materials science, including material properties, selection criteria, and performance characteristics.

• Expertise in part tolerancing, fastener selection, and fundamental thermal and structural considerations for product design.

• Excellent communication skills, capable of conveying complex technical information through detailed drawings, supplier handoff packages, and executive design presentations. Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in additional 3D modeling and rendering tools such as Keyshot, Rhino, or Blender.

• Knowledge and experience with basic Finite Element Analysis (FEA) or tolerance simulation tools.

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

• Experience integrating displays, sensors, cameras, or Printed Circuit Board Assemblies (PCBAs) into mechanical enclosures.

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

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 10+ years and the emphasis on expert-level knowledge in DFM/DFA and manufacturing processes indicate a need for a seasoned engineer who can mentor others and independently drive complex design initiatives. The mention of specific CAD and PLM software is critical for applicant screening.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 complex product development projects demonstrating end-to-end design ownership from concept to production.

• Highlight projects that clearly illustrate the application of DFM/DFA principles, detailing specific design optimizations made for manufacturing efficiency and cost reduction.

• Include examples of detailed 3D CAD models, manufacturing drawings with GD&T, and tolerance analyses performed.

• Present case studies demonstrating successful collaboration with manufacturing partners, including challenges overcome during tooling or production ramp-up.

• Quantify the impact of design decisions with metrics such as cost savings, lead time reduction, or improvement in assembly efficiency. Process Documentation:

• For each portfolio project, provide a brief overview of the product development process followed, emphasizing key decision points and methodologies.

• Detail how design intent was translated into clear manufacturing documentation and specifications for suppliers.

• Illustrate how design iterations and feedback from manufacturing were incorporated into the final product design.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, as it will serve as the primary evidence of the candidate's practical expertise in mechanical design, manufacturing integration, and product lifecycle management. The emphasis on DFM/DFA and quantifiable results is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $85,000 - $100,000 CAD per year.

Benefits:

• Employer-paid Health, Dental, and Vision insurance to support overall well-being.

• Comprehensive Life Insurance coverage.

• Short-Term Disability (STD) and Long-Term Disability (LTD) benefits for income protection.

• A minimum of 3% employer contribution towards a Group Registered Pension Plan (GRSP).

• Opportunity to participate in a Performance-based Profit-Sharing Program, aligning individual success with company performance.

• Flexible working environment to promote work-life balance.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with a flexible working environment that supports efficient operations and data analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided ($85,000 - $100,000 CAD) is based on the provided data for a Senior Mechanical Engineer/Product Designer in the Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada area. This range is competitive for a senior-level role with over 10 years of experience, considering the specified responsibilities and benefits. The benefits package is comprehensive, offering strong support for employee well-being and financial security.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology, Manufacturing, Transportation Services. Embross operates at the intersection of hardware engineering and customer experience solutions for the aviation industry, providing critical self-service technology like check-in kiosks and biometric boarding systems. This context implies a focus on reliability, security, and seamless passenger flow.

Company Size: The provided data doesn't explicitly state company size, but the ADP ATS suggests a medium to large organization with established HR processes.

Founded: Embross has a history in the industry, suggesting a stable company with established product lines and a growing portfolio.

Team Structure:

• The design and engineering team is likely composed of specialized engineers (mechanical, electrical, software) and product designers.

• This Senior Mechanical Engineer/Product Designer will operate within this team, potentially leading specific programs and collaborating with peers and management.

• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with manufacturing, supply chain, product management, and potentially customer support teams. Methodology:

• The company emphasizes a structured product development lifecycle, from concept to production release, with a strong focus on Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA).

• Data-driven decision-making is implied through the need for DFM/DFA, tolerance analysis, and optimization for efficiency.

• Rapid prototyping and iterative design are key components of their development process.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Embross's focus on airport and airline solutions means the company culture likely values precision, reliability, and innovation that directly impacts millions of travelers. The "build-from-within" philosophy suggests a commitment to employee development and long-term career paths.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a Senior-level position, indicating a significant level of autonomy, expertise, and responsibility. The individual is expected to not only execute but also to influence design strategy, mentor junior engineers, and drive process improvements.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Mechanical Engineer / Product Designer will likely report to an Engineering Manager, Director of Engineering, or Head of Product Development. They will be a key contributor within the design and engineering team, working closely with peers and potentially leading project teams.

Operations Impact: The work directly impacts the quality, manufacturability, cost, and serviceability of Embross's self-service hardware. This has a ripple effect on passenger experience, operational efficiency for airports and airlines, and Embross's market competitiveness and profitability. Effective DFM/DFA and robust design contribute directly to reduced manufacturing costs, fewer production issues, and improved product reliability in the field.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific manufacturing processes, materials, or product lines within Embross's portfolio (e.g., advanced materials, complex electro-mechanical integration).

• Leadership: Transition into a technical lead role for major programs, managing project timelines, resources, and cross-functional communication, or move towards a management role overseeing a team of engineers.

• Product Strategy: Contribute more significantly to early-stage product ideation and strategic roadmap planning, leveraging design and manufacturing insights to inform future product development.

• Industry Expertise: Become a recognized subject matter expert in airport self-service technology and its associated hardware design challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "build-from-within" company philosophy strongly suggests a structured approach to career development, where performance and demonstrated potential lead to increased responsibilities and advancement opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as Hybrid, indicating a mix of on-site work at the Richmond Hill office and remote work. This suggests a modern work environment that balances collaboration with flexibility.

Office Location(s): Richmond Hill, ON, CA. This location is part of the Greater Toronto Area, offering access to a skilled workforce and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Expect a collaborative office space designed to facilitate teamwork among engineers, designers, and potentially other departments.

• Access to in-house prototyping equipment (3D printers, CNC) and potentially testing facilities will be available.

• The environment will likely foster open communication and knowledge sharing, critical for complex engineering projects.

• The hybrid model implies a need for effective remote collaboration tools and practices.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (40 hours/week) with a flexible work schedule, allowing for adjustments to accommodate project needs and personal balance, which is beneficial for focused design work and data analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid arrangement is a significant draw for many professionals, offering the best of both worlds. Candidates should be prepared to articulate how they manage their time and maintain productivity in both office and remote settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess alignment with the required skills and experience.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on mechanical engineering principles, DFM/DFA expertise, Solidworks proficiency, manufacturing processes, and problem-solving scenarios. Expect questions related to past projects and technical challenges.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, explaining your role, design decisions, challenges, and outcomes. Be prepared to discuss specific details of your work.

• Cross-functional/Team Interview: Meet with potential team members and managers to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and communication skills.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, strategic contributions, and career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Wisely: Select 3-4 of your most relevant and impactful projects that best showcase your expertise in mechanical design, DFM/DFA, and product development lifecycle management.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your specific contributions, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, performance improvements, production efficiency gains).

• Explain Process: Walk interviewers through your design process, from concept to final product, highlighting key decisions and the rationale behind them.

• DFM/DFA Focus: Clearly demonstrate how you applied DFM/DFA principles and the positive impact these had on manufacturability and assembly.

• Visual Aids: Use high-quality visuals, including 3D renderings, CAD screenshots, manufacturing drawings, and photos of prototypes or final products.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical choices, problem-solving approaches, and collaboration with manufacturing partners.

Challenge Preparation:

• DFM/DFA Scenarios: Be ready to discuss hypothetical design challenges and how you would approach optimizing a design for manufacturability or assembly.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Prepare to analyze a given mechanical design problem and propose solutions, explaining your reasoning and trade-offs.

• Process Improvement: Think about how you would improve an existing manufacturing or product development process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is critical. Candidates should prepare a concise, visually appealing presentation that highlights their quantitative achievements and deep understanding of manufacturing processes and product development lifecycle.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Solidworks: Essential for 3D CAD modeling, part design, and assembly creation. Proficiency is a core requirement.

• PLM Systems: Experience with Product Lifecycle Management software for managing design data, revisions, and change orders.

• FEA/Tolerance Simulation Tools: Basic knowledge and ability to use these tools for performance analysis and ensuring part fit.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed as an "operations" role in the traditional sense, engineers will likely use data from simulations, testing, and manufacturing feedback to inform design decisions. This might involve using Excel or specialized analysis software for data processing. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this engineering role, but understanding how product design impacts the broader customer experience and supply chain might require familiarity with related systems. Prototyping & Manufacturing Tools:

• 3D Printing (FDM/SLA): Hands-on experience with rapid prototyping.

• CNC Machining: Understanding of CNC processes and capabilities.

• Sheet Metal Fabrication: Expertise in designing for sheet metal processes.

• Injection Molding: Knowledge of designing for plastic injection molding.

• Die Casting: Familiarity with die casting processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Solidworks and PLM systems is paramount. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their level of expertise and specific use cases for these tools. Familiarity with prototyping and manufacturing processes is equally important for a role focused on DFM/DFA.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Excellence: A drive to create cutting-edge, high-quality self-service solutions that set industry standards.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on working together across disciplines (engineering, design, manufacturing, supply chain) to achieve unified product vision and project success.

• Efficiency & Optimization: A commitment to improving processes, reducing costs, and enhancing product performance through smart design and execution.

• User-Centricity: A dedication to designing products that deliver seamless and positive experiences for millions of passengers globally.

• Integrity & Reliability: Upholding high standards in product design and manufacturing to ensure dependable operation in critical airport environments.

Collaboration Style:

• Embross fosters a dynamic and respectful work environment where collaboration is key. Expect to work closely with a diverse group of professionals, sharing knowledge and contributing to a common goal.

• The company values diversity and inclusivity, encouraging contributions from all backgrounds.

• Expect a culture of constructive feedback and continuous improvement, particularly within the engineering and design teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be a blend of technical rigor, collaborative spirit, and a focus on impactful, user-facing technology. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to thrive in such an environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing competing priorities: Juggling demanding project timelines, cost targets, performance requirements, and aesthetic considerations.

• Complex integration: Designing enclosures that seamlessly integrate various electro-mechanical components, sensors, and displays while meeting stringent environmental and operational standards.

• Supply chain optimization: Continuously identifying opportunities to improve manufacturing processes, reduce part costs, and enhance supplier relationships.

• Rapid technological evolution: Staying abreast of advancements in materials, manufacturing techniques, and self-service technologies to maintain a competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced materials, complex simulations, or new manufacturing technologies.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gaining broader understanding of the product lifecycle by working closely with manufacturing, product management, and potentially field service teams.

• Leadership Development: Potential to take on project leadership roles, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to strategic product planning.

• Industry Engagement: Participation in industry conferences or workshops related to self-service technology, product design, and manufacturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a significant opportunity for growth in a specialized and critical industry. The challenges are inherent to complex product development, and the company's "build-from-within" approach offers clear pathways for career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex mechanical design challenge you faced related to DFM/DFA and how you successfully resolved it. What was the impact of your solution?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and quantifiable results.)

• "Walk us through your process for selecting materials and manufacturing methods for a new product. What factors do you consider?" (Demonstrate systematic approach and understanding of trade-offs.)

• "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration with manufacturing partners and suppliers throughout the product development lifecycle?" (Highlight stakeholder management and clarity in documentation.)

• "Imagine you need to reduce the cost of a specific part in one of our kiosks by 15% without compromising performance. What steps would you take?" (Showcase analytical thinking, creativity, and focus on cost optimization.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Embross and our role in the aviation/self-service technology industry?" (Research company mission, products, and recent news.)

• "How do you approach balancing form and function in product design, particularly in a user-facing technology like ours?" (Align your design philosophy with Embross's brand and user experience goals.)

• "Describe your experience working in a hybrid or flexible work environment. How do you ensure productivity and collaboration?" (Address the work arrangement and demonstrate self-management skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, structure your presentation as a narrative: the problem, your approach, the key decisions made (especially DFM/DFA), the challenges, your solutions, and the final outcome/impact.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your specific contributions within each project, especially if it was a team effort.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use high-quality visuals – CAD models, drawings, photos, prototypes. Explain what the visuals represent and why they are important.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify achievements whenever possible (e.g., "reduced assembly time by X%", "achieved Y% cost savings through part consolidation," "met Z tolerance requirement").

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Expect questions about technical details, trade-offs, and alternative solutions you considered.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss specific examples from their portfolio that directly relate to Embross's products and industry. Demonstrating a strong understanding of DFM/DFA and a results-oriented mindset will be key.

📌 Application Steps

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

• Submit your application through the provided ADP link.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your 10+ years of experience in mechanical engineering and product design, emphasizing your expertise in DFM/DFA, Solidworks, and relevant manufacturing processes. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select your strongest projects that demonstrate your skills in mechanical design, product development lifecycle, and manufacturing optimization. Ensure it includes detailed CAD work, manufacturing drawings, and quantifiable achievements.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio projects, focusing on clear communication, highlighting your role, and articulating the impact of your design decisions, especially concerning DFM/DFA.

• Research Embross: Gain a thorough understanding of Embross's products, target markets (aviation, self-service technology), and company values. Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, team, and company.

⚠️ 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.