Mechanical Engineer [US Permanent Resident or US Citizen only]
Tampa, FL
Job Description
Detect-ION is a deep-tech startup founded in 2021 and develops next generation sensors for enhanced CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives) awareness for a broad range of applications including, but not limited to, environmental monitoring, biomedical/health sciences, warfighter protection, situational awareness, and national defense/security. The Detect-ION team has a collective 75+ years of contract research and development experience, and through several recent prestigious DTRA, IARPA, DARPA awards, has developed several disruptive sensor technologies for a broad range of high-value chemical/biological sensing applications.
Detect-ION develops sensors and systems in a dedicated 4000 sqft state-of-the-art laboratory located in Tampa, FL. We thrive in solving hard, high-value detection problems that require a multidisciplinary effort at the intersection of organic chemistry, biochemistry, gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, vacuum technology, data analytics, system engineering and AI/ML algorithms to produce the most pioneering sensing capability driven by mission-specific requirements from the US government and the industry.
As a recent startup, Detect-ION is built on an agile and enthusiastic sponsored research and development model to continue to serve our US government stakeholders and clients, while we explore commercial markets for our maturing technologies. We thrive on efficient project execution through astute scientific problem-solving experience and diligent program management and risk mitigation ensuring the highest ROI to our clients.
Position Overview [US Permanent Resident or US Citizen only]
Detect-Ion is seeking a seasoned and versatile mechanical engineer (ME) to join our scientific and system engineering team leading the next generation CBRNE sensor development initiatives at Detect-ION. The ME shall lead the iterative design, fabrication, assembly and testing of custom parts/components/subsystems with shared ownership of onsite rapid prototyping capabilities including a 5-axis CNC mill and a CNC lathe with other MEs. The ideal candidate will have extensive hands-on experience with CAD/CAM design for machining complex high-precision 3D parts in a variety of substrates including metals, alloys, and ceramics. The candidate shall design these parts in well-coordinated ongoing consultations with subject matter experts in sensor design, vacuum technology and packaging, electronics and systems integration. The candidate shall be responsible for outsourcing parts, where necessary, by identifying the appropriate vendors based on the design and substrate requirements. The candidate shall, at the minimum, be well-versed in basic electrical engineering fundamentals to independently test and troubleshoot basic problems. The ME shall provide input for monthly technical reports, technical proposals, and internal research/development projects. The ME shall report directly to the Founder/CEO of the company.
Required Qualifications
- MS/BS (+5 yrs. experience) in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent professional experience.
- Extensive hands-on experience with CAD/CAM design for CNC machining to iteratively optimize the design and machining process is extremely desirable.
- Fundamental understanding of system-level component integration including vacuum pumps, miniature valves, pressure regulators, pressure sensors, etc.
- Familiarity with mass spectrometry (MS), ion mobility spectrometer (IMS) and gas chromatography (GC) instrumentation and applications.
- Basic practical experience with thermal management and measurement in mechanical and electrical systems.
- Proficient with benchtop electronics lab instruments (such as oscilloscopes, LCR meters, and logic analyzers) to conduct electrical testing and validation.
- Experience in custom vacuum pump development, including but not limited to ion, turbomolecular, scroll, drag, diaphragm and getter pumps.
- Familiarity in EDM machining, laser micromachining, surface polishing etc.
- Theoretical understanding of vacuum materials, surface processing, sealing methods, surface outgassing and passivation processes, and molecular to viscous range flow dynamics modeling.
Competencies
- Software tools: SolidWorks, Autodesk Fusion 360, MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.).
- Programming: Basic microcontroller programming (e.g. Arduino) a plus.
- Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and 2D drafting.
- Machine Elements in Mechanical Design - Strength of Materials, Processing, Finish, etc.
- Tolerance Analysis - Assemblies.
- Joining techniques - Solder, braze, welding, etc.
- Specialty adhesives - Thermal conductivity, electrical insulation, etc.
- Technical Writing - Assembly and test procedures, test reports.
Intangibles
- Detail-oriented with superior problem-solving at identifying the root cause of issues and implementing creative, targeted solutions.
- Critical thinker- to challenge the status quo and/or build up on it to quantitatively improve design performance.
- Extremely versatile and uninhibited hands-on attitude to quickly try new ideas to prove the concept. Get 80% solution with 20 % effort to set the path for finer optimization.
- Ability and ambition to learn new skills as needed in an ongoing development cycle.
- Strong written and verbal communications skills.
- Ability to work within an agile multidisciplinary team.
Work Environment
- The normal work environment is typical of a research and development laboratory setting and laboratory facility.
- The incumbent is routinely required to sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel, touch, see, and hear, and may be required to lift or move up to 50 pounds.
- While performing the regular duties of the position, the incumbent may be exposed to moving mechanical parts, risk of electrical shock, and possible exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals. The incumbent must be able to wear adequate safety equipment and follow safety instructions.
Employment Status
Full Time
Other Requirements
U.S. Permanent Resident or U.S. Citizen
EOE/AA
Detect-Ion is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
Background Check
Candidates who receive a conditional offer of employment will be subject to a background check.