Mechanical Engineer

1099 Contractor, Part-Time or Full-Time Engagement

Melbourne, FL (Hybrid as tasking allows)

Catania Product Development is seeking a highly capable Mechanical Engineer. This engagement is suited for an experienced engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, hands‑on environment and prefers autonomy paired with accountability.

You will contribute to technically diverse product development efforts, working from early concept through prototyping and verification. This role is ideal for someone who takes pride in end‑to‑end ownership and delivering polished, manufacturable solutions.

This role is best suited for individuals who prefer autonomy and are comfortable being accountable for their outcomes.

• Contribute across the full lifecycle: concept development through prototype, validation, and production‑ready design
• Translate system and stakeholder requirements into practical mechanical solutions
• Conduct trade studies, architectural down‑selection, and design refinement
• Support verification and validation planning
• Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and production drawings (Solid Works)
• Apply GD&T appropriately
• Develop and manage Bills of Materials (BOMs)
• Design mechanisms, actuators, and structural components
• Incorporate DFM/DFA and Design‑to‑Cost principles
• Support MVP‑focused product development where applicable

• Design for ruggedized and demanding operating environments
• Integrate COTS components into robust mechanical architectures
• Consider thermal and structural constraints during design
• Participate in hands‑on assembly and prototype integration
• Coordinate with vendors and fabrication partners
• Support manufacturing transitions as needed
• Communicate clearly and professionally
• Manage tasks to stay on scope, schedule, and deliverables independently

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or similar)
• Minimum 5 years of experience in mechanical design and product development
• Strong proficiency in Solid Works (modeling, assemblies, drawings)
• Experience in ruggedizing COTS components and designing for harsh environments, including MIL‑STD‑810 compliant designs
• Ability to design technical, functional, and aesthetically refined products with a strong focus on user experience
• Experience with GD&T
• Experience creating and managing BOMs
• Experience designing mechanical mechanisms and actuators
• Strong understanding of fabrication processes and materials
• Experience applying DFM/DFA and cost‑conscious design principles
• Experience coordinating with external vendors
• Understanding of requirements flow‑downs and Minimum Viable Product (MVP)-focused product development
• Experience in vendor coordination

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and own projects end‑to‑end
• Comfortable managing scope, schedule, and technical decisions
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Reliable and self‑directed
• Able to operate effectively in a flexible, hybrid environment
• Hands‑on capability in prototype assembly and hardware development

• 10+ years of mechanical engineering experience
• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or similar)
• Experience in thermal analysis
• Manufacturing experience
• Experience in sketching, rendering, or industrial design
• Artistic or product‑form development background

Catania Product Development is an innovative product design and engineering services company, focusing on projects in a fast‑paced, high‑tech, creative environment. Catania operates on trust, autonomy, and accountability. Contractors are engaged to deliver defined outcomes and are expected to manage their work with minimal oversight while maintaining clear and proactive communication.

Projects are challenging, complex, and span across a diverse portfolio in both Commercial and Government sectors. The office is conveniently located next to Groundswell Startups in Melbourne, where you have further exposure to various businesses and startups within the Groundswell network. On‑site presence (Melbourne, FL) is required but if tasking allows working in a hybrid role is available.

• This is an independent contractor (1099) engagement to hire.
• Engagement terms, scope, and duration will be defined in the contract agreement.
• This description outlines general responsibilities and does not constitute a contract of employment or guarantee of ongoing engagement.
• Responsibilities may evolve based on project needs.