Lead Mechanical Engineer

Job Overview

Lead Mechanical Engineer, Eaton’s Electrical Critical Power Solutions Division, Richmond, VA. Relocation benefits and sponsorship provided within the United States only.

Responsible for supervising mechanical design and development of product lines, contributing to project design, development, and prototype production. Mentor junior staff, research, evaluate, and document design methods to meet standards and codes, and support management throughout development.

Compensation: $97,000 - $143,000 per year.

• Collaborate with Electrical and Mechanical Engineers to identify relevant industry standards and compliance requirements impacting product design.
• Lead product certification planning and testing process and support relevant Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTLs).
• Collaborate on design and implementation of engineering repository structure and Standard Operating Procedures for mechanical design, including verification and validation.
• Support Production during cost/design for manufacturing analysis (DFMEA / DFSS).
• Work collaboratively with Manufacturing Engineers to optimize assembly and testing processes.
• Continuously update knowledge by staying current with UL, IEEE, IEC, CSA, and DOE standards.

• Required: Bachelor of Science in Engineering with at least five (5) years of experience in mechanical design, or Master’s degree in Engineering with at least three (3) years of experience in mechanical design. Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship, now or in the future.
• Preferred: Experience developing products from concept to manufacturing launch.
• In‑depth knowledge of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) techniques.
• Proficiency with 3D Mechanical CAD tools, including complex assemblies, sheet‑metal design, and creation of detailed manufacturing drawings.
• Strong working knowledge of sheet‑metal fabrication, weldments, structural frames, and enclosure‑based designs used in electrical and industrial applications.
• Experience using PLM systems for BOM management, configuration control, and engineering change processes (ECR/ECO).
• Familiarity with ERP systems and understanding of how engineering data interfaces with manufacturing, sourcing, and cost control.
• Experience with Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA) methodology and participation in DFMEA, cost‑reduction, and manufacturability improvement initiatives.
• Understanding of mechanical considerations tied to electrical compliance, including creepage and clearance support, grounding provisions, enclosure integrity, serviceability, seismic requirements, and safety‑related features.
• Experience contributing to or leading New Product Introduction (NPI) projects, including prototype builds, design reviews, verification and validation, and release to production.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor junior engineers and designers, provide technical direction, and support formal design reviews and standards adherence.
• Strong technical documentation skills, including development and maintenance of engineering drawings, specifications, design standards, and procedures in a controlled documentation environment.

• Ability to understand the needs of the business and make wise decisions to maintain customer satisfaction and Eaton quality and profitability.
• Mentor: can work with less experienced engineers and designers to provide meaningful feedback about design implications.
• Ability to work autonomously and shift to a team environment while collaborating with other teams within Eaton.
• Performs work with a sense of urgency and high attention to detail.
• Communication: discuss technical concepts and information with internal staff, peers, and stakeholders; strong written documentation and interpersonal communication skills.

• Competitive salary and benefits package including 401(k), medical, dental, tuition reimbursement, paid holidays, vacation, and paid parental leave.
• Opportunity for career advancement through a defined technical track and broader Eaton career opportunities.
• Modern hybrid collaborative environment with a commitment to fostering a healthy work/life balance.