Principal Mechanical Engineer; Eden Prairie, MN

Your Job

Molex is seeking an innovative Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our R&D team. This team is responsible for the conceptualization of industry leading fiber optic systems in rapidly growing markets in cloud computing, AI, and hyperscale applications. Our team is comprised of highly skilled professionals who thrive in an environment of constant learning and innovation. A successful applicant will have the ability to appropriately plan and see assignments through to completion with minimal direction, provide leadership to other team members;

develop timing, meet project schedules, manage risks, and systematically solve problems of a complex scope.

Molex’s Optical Connectivity Group is at the forefront of designing and delivering cutting-edge optical solutions that power data centers, telecom infrastructure, and next-gen computing. With a presence in more than 40 countries, Molex fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and transformative technology development across global markets.

• Lead new product development projects from Concept through Design, Development, Testing, and Industrialization while following the Molex Product Development Process
• Engage with external customers to develop next generation fiber solutions for Data Center Markets
• Utilize rapid prototyping methods to create Proof of Concept (POC) prototypes
• Document and communicate POC results in technical reports for sharing with internal teams and key customers
• Collaborate directly with patent attorneys and agents to draft and review patent applications, ensuring technical accuracy of claims and descriptions
• Trial and optimize quick-turn design & analysis tools, disseminating knowledge and developing best practices to support data-driven product development
• Explore new materials & manufacturing technologies to enable the next generation of high-performance fiber solutions
• Collaborate with manufacturing to develop cost-competitive products and ensure designs are efficient to manufacture by applying DFM/DFA principles
• Interface with cross-functional team members in product management, manufacturing, quality, sales, and leadership during all phases of new product development and in support of existing products
• Gain and apply comprehensive understanding of fiber optic products, installation, and test methods to all new product development projects

• BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering field
• 10+ years of technical experience conducting new product development
• Proven design experience with multiple manufacturing techniques (injection molding, insert molding, sheet-metal forming, machining, extrusion)
• Expert in GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) analysis
• Experience with parametric solid modeling (NX, Creo, Solid Works)
• Familiarity with defining, applying, and interpreting Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
• Experience defining, executing, and interpreting product test plans & reports
• Desire to learn, be challenged and interact in a cross-functional team environment
• A demonstrated ability to learn quickly and make logical, data-based decisions when presented with novel tasks and requirements

• Understanding of optical connectors, cables, assemblies, and solutions
• Knowledge of regulatory agency testing requirements (UL, CSA, EIA)
• Knowledge of industry standards (IEEE, TIA, IEC, Telcordia)
• Good understanding and practical knowledge of Six Sigma quality development tools and principles (DOE, Pugh Matrix, FMEA, VOC)
• Experience with design & analysis of compliant mechanisms
• Strong computer skills and adaptability to emerging technologies, including AI
• Sound understanding of project management techniques helping manage projects to timelines, due dates and deadlines
• History of working within an international organization and/or working with international suppliers & team members

For this role, we anticipate paying $150,000 - $185,000 per year. This role is eligible for variable pay, issued as a monetary bonus or in another form.

Our goal is for each employee, and their families, to live fulfilling and healthy lives. We provide essential…