Design Engineer (Mechanical / Mechatronics)
Location Milwaukee WI
Full time
Job Description:
Important Must Have Technical Skills
- Advanced Creo CAD for A Class surface & compact housing design Accurately translates OEM styling data into production ready geometry.
- PCB Keep In/Keep Out packaging & antenna clearance definition Maintains RF integrity and component fit within tight envelopes.
- Snap fit multi shot & insert molded plastic part design Delivers robust sealed enclosures without secondary fasteners.
- Silicone rubber domes & tactile switch integration Ensures consistent actuation force and IP67 sealing.
- Light pipe/guide and LED back lighting design Provides uniform graphic illumination and brand signature.
- Decorative finish planning (paint laser etch IML/IMD metalizing) Meets OEM Color Material Finish targets and wear durability.
- Tolerance stack up & GD&T analysis at assembly level Guarantees fit feel and manufacturability across volume production.
- Metal die cast component integration (key blade bezel) Adds structural strength and premium tactile/aesthetic appeal.
- Mold flow & lighting simulation interpretation Enables early gating rib and wall adjustments to prevent defects.
- Materials knowledge: Plastics (PC/ABS PBT) rubber metals
- Ingress Protection (IP65/IP67) design principles
- PCBA packaging and component layout understanding
- Antenna placement Wireless & Electronics Integration for RF performance optimization (UWB BLE LF RKE RFID NFC)
- Battery integration (e.g. CR2032 Li-ion)
- 2D detailed drawings with full GD&T annotations and BOM.
Desirable Technical Skills
- Experience with Keyless Entry / Passive Entry & Go systems
- Mechanism/kinematic simulation (Creo Mechanism View Reps) Accelerates evaluation of button travel and latch forces.
- Drop/shock & environmental robustness design Improves reliability under real world automotive abuse.
- Fixture & gauge design for prototype validation Shortens testing cycles and ensures dimensional control.
- DFMEA & DFM collaboration with tooling suppliers Mitigates manufacturing risk before hard tool kick off.
- Material stack up for capacitive/touch sensor readiness Future proofs platform for digital key and HMI evolution.
- PLM (Windchill) data management proficiency Secures revision control and traceability across global teams.
- EMI/EMC shielding techniques
- Connector design knowledge
- Hands-on electromechanical bench testing
- Rapid prototyping using 3D printing/CNC
- Understanding of validation tests: thermal vibration drop chemical salt spray
- Coordination with Electrical teams
OK to Have Technical Skills
- Basic EMC/EMI mechanical shielding familiarity Supports efficient hand offs with RF/Electrical teams.
- Surface quality assessment & neutral model delivery Streamlines OEM studio and supplier approvals.
- Cosmetic durability test knowledge (Taber chemical UV) Informs finish selection during early design stages.
- Soft tooling & rapid prototyping experience Enables agile iterations prior to production tooling.
- Cost reduction & continuous improvement mindset Contributes to competitive BOM without sacrificing quality.
- Supplier and manufacturing liaison capabilities
- Flex PCB knowledge