Mechanical Engineer

Company Overview

Hamilton Company is a worldwide leader in the design and manufacture of manual, semi-automated and robotic products for precision fluid measuring. We specialize in the development, manufacturing and customization of precision measurement devices, automated liquid handling stations, and sample management systems. For more than 60 years, Hamilton has been satisfying customer needs by combining quality materials with skilled workmanship, ensuring the highest level of performance of every precision fluid measuring device we manufacture.

Cerillo is a Charlottesville, VA-based HAMILTON Company subsidiary focused on advancing human, environmental, and ecological health through its suite of innovative laboratory instrumentation. Through its Rayo platform of compact, precision microplate readers and the Canopy real-time monitoring system, Cerillo equips academic, government, and biotech/pharma researchers with affordable, accessible tools that ensure consistency and reproducibility.

As a Mechanical Engineer you will be a key member of the Engineering team responsible for designing, prototyping, and refining the mechanical architecture of Cerillo's compact microplate readers. Working closely with electrical and optical engineers, the Mechanical Engineer translates functional requirements into manufacturable designs that are precise, durable, and optimized for use in challenging laboratory environments—including anaerobic chambers, incubators, and field settings.

The role spans the full product lifecycle from concept through production.

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

• Design and develop mechanical components, assemblies, and enclosures for Cerillo's microplate reader product family using 3D CAD software
• Create detailed engineering drawings with proper GD&T tolerancing in accordance with ASME Y14.5 standards
• Lead prototype development including hands-on fabrication, assembly, and iterative testing of mechanical subassemblies
• Define and execute mechanical testing protocols to validate structural integrity, thermal performance, sealing, and environmental robustness (e.g., ingress protection, vibration)
• Collaborate with electrical and optical engineers to integrate PCB assemblies, optical paths, and illumination systems into compact, precise enclosures
• Design fixtures, jigs, and tooling to support assembly, calibration, and quality control on the production floor
• Drive design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA), working with contract manufacturers to optimize part geometry, material selection, and tolerances for scalable production
• Manage relationships with external vendors, machine shops, and injection molding suppliers; obtain and evaluate quotes and lead times
• Maintain complete and accurate design documentation including Solid Works models, drawings, BOMs, and ECOs within a PDM/PLM system
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues identified during development, testing, or production; implement and document corrective design changes
• Support regulatory documentation and risk management activities as required
• Contribute to new product concept development and product roadmap planning
• Perform ad-hoc engineering tasks as directed by the Chief Executive Officer and/or Engineering leadership

• Experience designing precision optical or electro-optical instrument housings and component mounts is strongly preferred
• Familiarity with sealing and environmental protection design (IP ratings, gaskets, adhesives)
• Knowledge of material selection for laboratory environments: engineering plastics, aluminum, stainless steel
• Experience with DFM and working with contract manufacturers and suppliers
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with demonstrated attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced startup environment
• Ability to lift and position equipment up to 25 pounds

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field required;
  Master's degree preferred
• 2+ years of experience in mechanical product development, preferably in…