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Sr Mechanical Engineer

Jewett Automation · Richmond, VA, US

Spotted 1d ago

Job details

Level
Senior
Education
Bachelor's degree
Posted
Nov 4, 2026
Last confirmed open
Nov 5, 2026
Job description

About this role

About the Role

THRYVE Automation designs and builds custom automation equipment. We are looking for a Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the mechanical design of our machines, from first concept through factory acceptance testing.

You will be the mechanical lead on your projects, working alongside a Project Manager who owns the schedule and the customer, and with Electrical and Controls Engineers who share the machine with you. That leaves you free to focus on what matters most: designs that build cleanly, debug quickly, and run reliably.

What You Will Do

Design the machine

  • Create SolidWorks models of mechanical components and assemblies to THRYVE Automation design standards.
  • Perform tolerance analysis, material selection, and stress and load evaluation, including FEA.
  • Research and specify commercial off-the-shelf components.
  • Create piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&ID).
  • Maintain design calculations, risk assessments, and revision histories.
  • Ensure designs meet performance requirements, safety standards, and customer specifications.

Lead the mechanical work on your projects

  • Serve as the primary mechanical engineer from concept through factory acceptance testing.
  • Direct and review the work of external engineers supporting your projects.
  • Work with Electrical and Controls Engineers so the full machine meets its requirements.
  • Present designs in internal and customer design reviews.
  • Support build, debug, FAT, and startup with hands-on troubleshooting.

Raise the bar

  • Provide technical guidance in peer reviews and share knowledge across engineering.
  • Help Sales and Applications estimate material and labor for proposed equipment.
  • Contribute to our design standards, best practices, and process improvements.

What You Bring

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering (BSME) or equivalent experience.
  • 10 or more years of mechanical design experience on automation systems.
  • Strong command of SolidWorks 3D CAD or an equivalent platform.
  • Strong understanding of GD&T, mechanical design principles, and manufacturing methods for components and fabrications.
  • Familiarity with 6-axis robotics, material handling, conveyors, and end-of-line packaging.
  • Experience with risk assessments and compliance with safety standards.
  • Experience with 3D printing manufacturing methods.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects at once with minimal supervision in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
  • Hands-on troubleshooting and mechanical assembly skills.
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams).
  • Availability for occasional travel.

Why This Role

  • Focus on engineering. A dedicated Project Manager runs the schedule and the customer, so your time goes into the design.
  • See your work run. You follow your designs onto the shop floor through build, debug, and acceptance.
  • Shape how we design. Your experience feeds directly into our standards and the development of the engineers around you.
Interested in this role?Continue on Jewett Automation's careers page.
Apply on Jewett Automation