Soft Goods Mechanical Engineer

Job Title:

Soft Goods Mechanical Engineer

Location:

Seattle, WA Duration: 6 Months to start with

Soft Goods Mechanical Engineering team develops technical integration solutions for wearable accessories. Our client is looking for a builder and problem solver, someone who can take a concept from a sketch to a high‑fidelity functional prototype. You will bridge the gap between soft materials and rigid hardware, creating novel construction methods that can scale to mass production.

• Prototyping: Lead the physical creation of soft goods concepts using standard soft goods equipment. You will build what you design.
• Hard/Soft Integration: Develop innovative methods to attach soft goods to rigid hardware.
• Fixture Design
  :
  Design and build custom assembly fixtures and tooling to solve complex construction challenges and assist in the prototyping process.
• Design for Manufacturing (DFM): Work with cross‑functional teams to refine prototypes into golden samples.
• Material Construction: Move beyond simple material selection to define how materials are layered, constructed, and finished to meet cosmetic and functional requirements.
• Vendor
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Remotely communicate technical construction details to overseas vendors and troubleshoot manufacturing issues during builds.
• Prototype Characterization: Perform first‑order characterization of prototypes to validate construction integrity.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in industrial design, Product Design, Textile Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering with a strong soft goods portfolio.
• Experience: 3+ years of experience in Soft Goods Prototyping in industries such as Consumer Electronics, Wearable Technology, Medical Devices, Aerospace, Automotive Interiors, Footwear, Athletic/Performance Apparel, Outdoor Equipment, Luggage & Bags, Military/Tactical Gear, or Protective Equipment (PPE).
• CAD Proficiency: Proficiency in NX, Solid Works, Rhino, or Fusion 360. (NX is a plus, but not required).
• Technical
  
  Skills:
  
  Expert knowledge of pattern making, cut‑and‑sew construction, and adhesive applications.
• Fabrication: Comfort working in a shop environment to build jigs and fixtures.