a16z 
Lightspeed Senior / Principal Mechanical Engineer (Hardware Integration)
Posted Updated 8
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Description
- We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to lead the integration and packaging of mechanical, electrical, and sensing subsystems within our autonomous surface vessels
- This role is responsible for translating system designs into physically integrated, manufacturable, and serviceable hardware
- Systems You Will Own:
- Payload integration and mounting
- Electronics packaging and enclosure integration
- Sensor mounting, alignment, and protection systems
- Cable routing and harness management
- Mechanical interfaces between subsystems (brackets, mounts, bulkheads)
- Access panels and serviceability features
- Internal layout and packaging of subsystems within the vehicle
- Design mechanical integration solutions for electronics, sensors, and payloads
- Own physical layout and packaging of components within the vehicle
- Define mounting strategies and structural interfaces
- Develop cable routing strategies with electrical engineering
- Ensure manufacturability, serviceability, and reliability
- Create CAD models, drawings, and integration documentation
- Perform tolerance analysis and support testing
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams
- Support prototype builds and troubleshooting
- Drive design-for-manufacturing decisions
- Strong mechanical design fundamentals
- Experience in prototype or production environments
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related field
- Proficiency in 3D CAD
- Experience with hardware packaging and subsystem integration
- Experience with electronics packaging or robotics systems
- Familiarity with cable/harness design
- Experience designing for harsh environments
- Experience with maritime, aerospace, or defense systems
- Strong cross-functional collaboration skills
- 5+ years integrating mechanical and electrical systems