HEAD OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

Freeform is a stealth mode metal 3D printing startup founded on the belief that transforming the way things are made is essential to making the world a better place. Our advanced technology stack lies at the intersection of hardware, software, and data science, creating the foundation for the world’s first fully autonomous and scalable manufacturing system. Our core team hails from several of the world’s most innovative companies, and we have secured significant funding from several of Silicon Valley’s top venture capital firms.

As the Head of Mechanical Engineering, you will play a critical role in leading our veteran mechanical engineering team as well as helping to bring clarity and smart decision-making to the overall engineering organization. The ideal candidate will have extensive technical breadth in mechanical engineering concepts as well as specific expertise in architecting, designing, and developing complex mechanical systems and / or state-of-the-art industrial automation systems. All leadership roles at Freeform are technical in nature so in addition to being a leader you will also be expected to spend a significant portion of your time working alongside the team as an individual technical contributor.

3D printing experience is not required to be successful here - rather we look for smart, motivated, collaborative engineers who love solving hard problems and creating amazing technology!

Responsibilities:

  • Provide technical guidance and leadership to a highly experienced mechanical engineering team with the goal of driving continuous improvement into the design process and maximizing pace of development. 
  • Serve as the primary technical architect for all mechanical elements in the system as well as lead design, analysis, and / or simulation efforts as an individual contributor where appropriate. 
  • Lead system level integration and validation of design efforts (testing and troubleshooting).
  • Lead coordination of activities related to fabrication of hardware, system operation, assembly, testing, and development or repair of mechanical or electromechanical products and systems.
  • Provide technical project management from conception to production when required by the size / scope of the project.
  • Hire, onboard, and mentor a world class team of mechanical engineers.
  • Facilitate effective communication and collaboration with the broader engineering team by working side-by-side with the software, electrical, and process engineering teams.

 Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in mechanical engineering.
  • 10+ years of experience architecting, designing, and developing complex mechanical systems.
  • Experience with CAD (NX, Solidworks, Inventor, Creo) as well as working knowledge of GD&T.
  • Successful track record of leading complex multidisciplinary projects and teams.

Preferred Skills:

  • Advanced degree (MS, PhD) in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, robotics, or other relevant engineering field.
  • 15+ years industry experience.
  • Expertise in metal additive manufacturing processes and related electrical / software development requirements.
  • Expertise in Design for Manufacturing (DFM).
  • Experience leading a highly experienced mechanical engineering team.
  • Understanding of metallurgy principles.
  • Demonstrated ability to determine root cause and implement corrective actions.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.

Location:

  • We are located in Hawthorne in a 35,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility featuring large open spaces for team collaboration, R&D, and production, as well as easy access to the 405, 105, and 110 freeways. Our facility is in the heart of LA’s vibrant emerging tech ecosystem alongside many other high growth startups and enterprises.

Why Freeform?

  • We have an inclusive and diverse culture that values collaboration, learning, and making deliberate data-driven decisions.
  • We offer a competitive compensation package that includes significant equity in the company, as well as a full suite of additional benefits including premium health care (medical, dental, and vision) and life insurance, generous Paid Parental Leave and extended transition back to work for birthing parent, 401K, and PTO.
  • Our work environment includes casual dress, flexible work hours, a fully stocked kitchenette, free parking, daily paid for lunches, and regular catered team building events.
  • Freeform is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity; employment with Freeform is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

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