Senior Mechanical Engineer; m​/f​/d) Transfer- and Automation Systems

Are you passionate about designing and optimizing cutting-edge automation systems that drive the future of diagnostics?

In complex clinical and diagnostic workflows, precision and speed are paramount. High-throughput automation and precision transfer systems are the backbone of modern laboratory environments, enabling seamless sample handling and processing. We are seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer (m/f/d) Transfer- and Automation Systems to join an international hardware engineering team in Rotkreuz. In this role, you will act as the primary Subject Matter Expert (SME) for high-precision transfer systems, advanced robotics, and handling technologies.

If you thrive on leading complex mechanical design, driving kinematic calculations and simulations, and mentoring cross-functional teams to bring innovative mechatronic solutions from concept to physical reality, this is your opportunity to make a lasting clinical impact across the full product lifecycle.

• Duration: 1 year (Until December 31, 2027; extension highly likely)
• Remote Work: Up to 20% home office (max. 1 day per week, upon agreement)
• Travel: Minimal / Occasional within Europe

Key Tasks & Responsibilities

• Subject Matter Expertise (SME): Serve as the primary technical expert for XYZ transfer systems, automated handling technologies, flexible feeding systems, and precise pick-and-place mechanisms (including custom end-effectors and grippers).
• Technical Leadership & Mentoring: Guide and mentor team members in mechatronic product development and innovative projects, establishing best practices, design standards, and modular engineering concepts.
• Modular Engineering & Development: Design reusable mechatronic modules and standardized architectures to maximize efficiency across product lines and business areas.
• Calculations & Physical Simulation: Drive drive/motion component sizing (actuators, motors, pneumatics) and execute Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and kinematic simulations to optimize cycle times, load limits, and dynamic system behavior.
• Work Package & Project Management: Plan, estimate, and execute technical work packages within scope, effort, budget, and timeline constraints. Proactively identify risks, structure decision-making processes, and escalate potential project deviations early.
• Analytical Problem Solving & Verification: Perform 1D/3D tolerance stack-up analyses and root cause analyses. Oversee physical prototype testing and present data-driven redesign solutions to key stakeholders and product managers.
• Technical Documentation: Author, review, and maintain formal technical documentation in full compliance with regulatory standards.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate effectively with internal and external partners across production, procurement, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, service, and external suppliers.

What You Bring (Must-Haves)

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related engineering discipline.
• Industry & Senior Experience: Minimum 10 years of professional experience in mechanical design and mechatronic product development, ideally within a strictly regulated sector (e.g., Medical Devices, In-Vitro Diagnostics, or GxP environments).
• Automation & Transfer Systems Expertise: In-depth knowledge of mechatronic design for XYZ transfer systems, automation technologies, or robotic arm applications.
• Calculations & Physical Simulation: Strong practical skills in mechanical calculations (motor/drive sizing, moments of inertia, structural loading) and simulation tools (FEA and motion/kinematic analysis using ANSYS, MATLAB/Simulink, or native CAD motion modules).
• CAD, PLM & Tolerancing: Advanced proficiency in CAD tools (CATIA V5 and/or Solid Works), SAP PLM/DVS systems, and comprehensive knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T / ISO 8015).
• DFX & Commissioning: Solid grasp of Design for Manufacturing/Assembly (DFX) across diverse manufacturing technologies, material selection, and hands-on experience in physical commissioning and industrialization for mass production.
• Communication & Language: Fluent/business-level proficiency in both German and English (spoken and written), paired with exceptional analytical skills, adaptability, and strong teamwork abilities.