Full vaccination against COVID-19 required, unless you qualify for a federally protected exemption.

About this Role

We’re looking for a Sr. Mechanical Engineer to join Apeel’s growing Hardware Engineering team.  In this role, you’ll work with the larger team on the design, testing, release, and installation of various types of produce handling, spray application and robotics / automation equipment used in the application of Apeel’s barrier coating products on fruit. 

Apeel is looking for someone who can effectively understand the opportunities and challenges for technical success in new environments and facilities, including customized design solutions for specific customers. 
 
This position will report to the Sr. Director of Hardware Engineering and will be hybrid working from our newly renovated Headquarters in Goleta, CA.  We’re looking for someone to join our team immediately.

What You’ll Do

• Act as the technical lead on engineering projects supporting the mechanical design and development of Apeel’s application equipment
• Develop design specifications based on specific system and customer requirements 
• Build and evaluate initial proof of concept / prototype systems
• Generate detailed CAD designs with appropriate subassemblies, custom parts,  and part drawings as needed to fabricate and build new tooling and equipment
• Work with vendors and third-party equipment OEMs on the sourcing of key components or the fabrication and testing of the designed equipment
• Collect and analyze performance data from equipment and automated processes to evaluate performance and identify opportunities for improvement
• Proactively manage reliability and performance risk mitigation tasks to ensure the long-term reliability of designed systems
• Mentor more junior engineers
• Travel up to 15% domestically and internationally

What You Bring

• Minimum Qualifications
• Mechanical engineering degree with minimum 7+ years of hands-on experience designing, testing, and deploying complex machinery
• Experienced CAD user, preferably with SolidWorks
• Experience taking a design from concept through prototype to production
• Hands-on experience with the assembly, testing, and troubleshooting of electro-mechanical systems
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics
• Experience with the testing and certification of new designs to meet regulatory compliance requirements (UL & CE)
• Experienced in performing complex root cause and corrective actions analysis
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to travel up to 15% domestically and internationally

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience working with third party design and fabrication firms on the development, testing and acceptance of new equipment
• Experience working with and designing agriculture / food / cGMP processing equipment, or similar industrial machinery
• Familiarity with Hygienic / Sanitary design
• Experience working with industrial equipment, VFDs, PLCs, sensors and other automation components