Senior Mechanical Design Associate

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) is seeking a Senior Mechanical Design Associate to join its Engineering Division. In this role, you will independently contribute to multidisciplinary engineering and scientific teams by transforming conceptual ideas into detailed mechanical designs. Your responsibilities will include creating precise 3D CAD models and 2D fabrication drawings to support the manufacturing, assembly, and integration of precision components and complex assemblies used in high-impact research environments.

Drawing on your advanced knowledge of mechanical engineering principles, CAD tools, and product lifecycle management (PLM) systems, you'll collaborate closely with engineers and scientists to interpret requirements, overcome design challenges, and ensure the successful implementation of mechanical systems in both laboratory and field applications. This position requires a high level of autonomy, and you will also be expected to mentor junior design associates when appropriate.

What You Will Do:

• Lead or contribute to multidisciplinary projects developing mechanical, mechatronic, or opto-mechanical systems that support LBNL's scientific mission.
• Create high-quality 3D CAD models and detailed engineering drawings with minimal supervision, based on concepts, sketches, or verbal input.
• Apply GD&T per ASME Y14.5 to clearly communicate design intent.
• Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and technicians to develop manufacturable designs.
• Manage drawings and design changes using PLM systems (e.g., Windchill).
• Support fabrication and assembly by verifying fit, form, and function and resolving production issues.
• Perform tolerance stack-ups to ensure compliance with structural, thermal, and interface requirements.
• Reverse engineer components or systems and generate accurate "as-built" CAD documentation.
• Mentor junior designers in modeling, drafting, and design for manufacturability.
• Participate in design reviews and maintain documentation in line with lab standards.

What is Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field with 7+ years of relevant experience, or 10+ years of hands-on experience in mechanical CAD design.
• Proficient in 3D CAD software (e.g., Creo Parametric/Direct, SolidWorks, Inventor) and experienced with PLM systems (e.g., Windchill, SAP, Siemens Opcenter Quality).
• Solid understanding of mechanical engineering and manufacturing principles, with working knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5M and/or ISO 1101).
• Skilled in developing detailed 3D CAD models and 2D fabrication drawings from conceptual inputs, including hand sketches and verbal direction.
• Able to apply engineering principles to component and assembly-level designs, ensuring manufacturability and functionality.
• Experienced working in cross-functional teams (mechanical, electrical, magnetic, scientific) to define and execute mechanical design solutions.
• Effectively communicates design intent using GD&T to internal and external fabrication teams.
• Demonstrated adaptability in learning and applying new tools and technologies.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; able to clearly convey technical information to engineers and scientists.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail in design documentation and change control.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, set priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Experience mentoring junior design associates in both technical and procedural areas.
• Knowledge in specialized design areas such as reverse engineering, 3D cabling/piping, 3D printing, opto-mechanics, mechatronics, vacuum systems, structural supports, DFM/DFA.
• Familiar with LBNL engineering standards and the use of PLM systems for CAD data and documentation control.
• Basic understanding of change control processes and ability to assist in developing work instructions.

Desired Qualifications:

• 8+ years of professional experience (or 11+ years in mechanical CAD design), supporting engineering projects in scientific, research, or industrial environments.
• Proven ability to lead, supervise, and mentor small mechanical design teams.
• Proficient in Creo Parametric and PTC Windchill for mechanical design and PLM.
• Certified in GD&T at the technical or professional level (ASME Y14.5M).
• Skilled in cost and schedule estimation for mechanical design tasks in collaboration with project and control account managers.
• Deep understanding of mechanical design principles, including tolerancing, material selection, and manufacturing methods (machining, sheet metal, welding, etc.).
• Familiar with mechanical integration challenges such as alignment, interface management, and spatial constraints in complex systems (e.g., vacuum, cryogenic, optical, or high-radiation environments).
• Holds relevant technical certifications supporting mechanical design expertise.

Notes:

• This is a full-time 2-year, term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.
• The expected salary for this position is $114,000 - $139,000, which fits into the full salary of $101,184 - $170,772 annually depending upon the candidate's skills, knowledge, and abilities, including education, certifications, and years of experience.
• This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Berkeley Lab is a University of California employer. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.