Mechanical Project Engineer

Sierra Thermal, Inc., based in Watsonville, CA, is a world leader in designing and manufacturing advanced thermal processing equipment. With over 30 years of experience, the company specializes in conveyor furnaces for solar cell processing, high-temperature precision-controlled atmosphere furnaces, infrared conveyor furnaces, and more. At Sierra Thermal, we take pride in fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment, where many employees have been part of our family for decades.

Our innovative solutions cater to industries that demand precise, efficient, and cutting-edge thermal technologies.

The Mechanical Project Engineer position is a high-level technical contributor responsible for leading projects with limited oversight. Responsibilities include design, analysis, testing, and continuous improvement of mechanical systems, components, and products. Collaborating with other mechanical and electrical engineers, this role applies fundamental engineering principles to contribute to 3D modeling, engineering calculations, technical documentation, and development of customer specific products throughout the entire project lifecycle.

The Mechanical Project Engineer collaborates with cross‑functional teams, adheres to company processes and standards, and develops practical engineering skills while contributing to active project work.

The following are intended to be examples of the accountabilities for which the person in this position is responsible. This position description is not intended to be complete or all-inclusive and does not preclude management from assigning other or related functions if such functions are a logical assignment for the position.

• Review system design requirements with the sales team to ensure technical feasibility.
• Design new parts, assemblies, and system components using Solid Works.
• Integrate various components (sensors, analyzers, motors, pneumatic valves, and electrical control/power systems) into thermal processing systems.
• Draft independently or collaborate with drafters to create assembly and part fabrication drawings.
• Approve CAD drawings, submit and release via Solid Works PDM application.
• Create and maintain Bills of Materials for assigned systems and projects.
• Support assembly processes by reviewing build progress and addressing technical questions.
• Assist with machine startup, commissioning, and quality assurance testing.
• Produce technical illustrations and instructional content for manuals and documentation.
• Provide engineering support to customer service and field service teams for troubleshooting.
• International and domestic travel to customer facilities occasionally as needed to support installation, startup, testing, or issue resolution.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Knowledge of capital equipment design and manufacturing (7 yrs. experience min).
• Ability to collaborate effectively with customers, sales engineers, other project engineers, drafters, manufacturing personnel, suppliers, and field teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Solid Works (parts, assemblies, drawings). (3 yrs. min.)
• Knowledge of resistive element thermal control systems and electro‑mechanical conveyance.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes (machining, sheet metal, welding, etc.).
• Positive attitude and strong professional ethics aligned with Sierra Thermal’s high‑performance culture.
• Fundamental understanding of mechanical design principles, engineering documentation, and strong ability to perform technical calculations for heat transfer and stress/deflection.
• Familiarity with Microsoft applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

• Experience with AutoCAD (2D and 3D).
• Solid Works PDM or similar CAD PDM applications.
• Knowledge of domestic and international low voltage switch gear and industrial power specifications.
• Knowledge of NFPA 79, NEC 70, UL, IEC.
• Hands‑on experience with prototype build, testing, or troubleshooting.
• Ability to troubleshoot and create field solutions for customer issues.
• Basic understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Experience with ERP systems for BOM management and revision control.
• Experience with PID control systems.
• Experience with temperature profiling of conveyor ovens.