Mechanical Development Engineer

Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you.

Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.

Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all?

Position Summary

We are seeking a skilled Embedded Firmware Engineer with a strong mechanical engineering foundation and experience with e-mobility and bicycle experience.

• The Mechanical Development Engineer - E-Mobility Systems is responsible for the design, development, and validation of mechanical systems for electric mobility products. This role focuses on electric drive trains, gearboxes, electric motors, and bicycle system integration, supporting products from early concept through prototype build, testing, and production release.
• The ideal candidate combines strong mechanical engineering fundamentals with practical hands-on experience in e-mobility or light electric vehicle development, including close collaboration with cross-functional teams such as electrical engineering, controls, manufacturing, suppliers, and test engineering.
• This position reports to Gates Technical Director for New Technology Innovation and is responsible for developing, testing and supporting software for e-bike centric devices.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Product & System Development

• Design and develop mechanical components and assemblies for e-mobility applications, including:
• Gearboxes and power transmission systems
• Electric motor housings, mounts, and thermal interfaces
• Bicycle and light vehicle integration (frames, interfaces, mounts, tolerances)
• Translate system requirements into detailed mechanical designs that meet performance, durability, manufacturability, and cost targets
• Support architecture and concept development for new electric mobility products

Design & Analysis

• Create 3D CAD models, assemblies, and detailed drawings using industry-standard CAD tools
• Perform mechanical calculations and analysis related to:
• Gear trains, bearings, shafts, and fasteners
• Structural strength, fatigue, and vibration
• Thermal management and packaging constraints
• Conduct tolerance analysis and support DFMEA and design reviews

Prototyping & Testing

• Plan and execute prototype builds, including supplier coordination and in-house assembly support
• Define and support mechanical testing activities such as:
• Functional and durability testing
• Environmental and thermal testing
• Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) evaluation
• Analyze test results and iterate designs to meet performance and reliability targets

Manufacturing & Supplier Collaboration

• Support manufacturing process development, including DFM/DFA activities
• Work with external suppliers on component sourcing, feasibility reviews, and design refinements
• Assist with production launch activities and resolution of field or manufacturing issues

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with electrical, software, and controls engineers to ensure integrated system performance
• Participate in project planning, technical reviews, and design milestones
• Provide clear technical documentation and communicate progress effectively

Requirements and Preferred Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• 3-5 years of experience in mechanical product development (e-mobility, automotive, bicycle, robotics, or similar industries preferred)
• Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, including:
• Gearboxes and power transmission
• Bearings, shafts, and structural components
• Materials and manufacturing processes
• Proficiency with 3D CAD software (e.g., Solid Works, Creo, CATIA, NX)
• Hands-on experience with prototyping, testing, and design validation
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, iterative development environment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with electric motors and drivetrain integration
• Knowledge of bicycle or light electric vehicle standards and interfaces
• Familiarity with DFMEA, GD&T, and tolerance stack-up analysis
• Experience supporting manufacturing ramp-up or production launch
• Exposure to NVH or thermal design for electromechanical systems

Key Competencies

• Strong mechanical engineering intuition and problem-solving skills
• Practical, hands-on mindset with attention to detail
• Ability to balance innovation with manufacturability and cost
• Effective communication and teamwork across disciplines
• Passion for e-mobility, sustainability, and product excellence

PAY & BENEFITS

• • Full-Time
  • Salary Range: $92,000 - $101,000
  • Medical, Dental, Vision insurance and other voluntary benefit options: benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire
  • Eligible for 3 weeks of paid vacation + 11 holidays (9 scheduled & 2 floating) + 8 sick days. All vacation days are…