Mechanical Design Engineer

Model/ Z seeks an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer to support product development and the design of manufacturable solutions for modular housing production, with a focus on improving manufacturability, production efficiency, and reducing the cost of housing in California. The role develops detailed 3D CAD models, prototypes, large assemblies, and tooling and fixture designs in collaboration with manufacturing, quality, operations, and supply chain teams. The engineer carries designs through established engineering procedures, including initial design proposals, technical and design review meetings, PDM/PLM management. Responsibilities include evaluating designs for manufacturability and assembly, developing and testing prototype solutions, reviewing and maintaining engineering drawings and technical documentation, managing design revisions and product configurations, and supporting production-line testing and implementation. The Mechanical Design Engineer works directly with cross-functional teams to identify production challenges, troubleshoot design-related issues, and implement engineering improvements that enhance quality, repeatability, cost, and manufacturing efficiency. The position also supports the transition of new and revised designs from engineering into production by ensuring design requirements, documentation, materials, and configurations are properly communicated and controlled.

SALARY: $70,000 - $90,000

LOCATION: Los Angeles, CA

ABOUT THE COMPANY:

Model/Z is a trailblazing enterprise focused on reinventing multifamily housing through the development of standardized, modular units. Our mission is to provide high-quality, low-cost, and net-zero-ready housing solutions that are both scalable and practical, aiming to significantly mitigate homelessness and enhance living conditions for underrepresented communities. As a majority Black-owned and operated business based in Southern California, Model/Z is poised to establish the first standardized modular housing factory in the region.

Located in the historic Watts neighborhood of South Los Angeles, Model/Z is committed to revitalizing communities by employing local community members and paying living wages. Our innovative approach revolutionizes construction, transforming a traditional linear process into a parallel manufacturing system that allows us to build high-quality apartment homes in a factory before the concrete is even poured on-site. By empowering Black and Brown families and institutions and unlocking the value of underutilized land, Model/Z embodies a model of equitable growth, addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in Southern California and beyond.

Requirements

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Evaluating potential solutions for product and process inefficiencies with technical analysis plus prototyping, and validating economic feasibility through business principles with management.
• Designing and managing large assembly models, overseeing configuration management, and document control in accordance with ASME standards.
• Implementing design-build improvements and carrying change implementations through Engineering Change Order Processes on a live production line.
• Managing internal PDM/PLM systems and external fabrication drawing libraries for manufacturers/supliers.
• Operating cross functionally with manufacturing, quality, and industrial systems teams for cohesive engineering execution.
• Maintaining Bill of Materials (EBOM, MBOM, PBOM) and Alignment with ERP systems.
• Working alongside Supply Chain with contracted manufacturers/ suppliers.
• Coordinating design solutions with various Architectural, Structural, MEP, Inspection Teams and following through with submittals to city and state government agencies.
• Undergoing Root Cause Analysis to evaluate current production process and design features to identify possible pain points.
• Applying industry standards Automotive and Aerospace Manufacturing principles to an antiquated construction industry.
• Writing technical Standard Operation Procedures and Manuals to aid Quality and Process Engineering.
• Designing and building fixtures and jigs for production use.
• Fabricating and integrating precision tooling into the production line.
• Solving difficult technical problems to optimize for our ultimate goal of reducing the cost of housing in Southern California.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• 0 - 3 years of Mechanical Engineering industry experience required.
• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering required (Master's preferred)
• Strong mechanical engineering fundamentals.
• Advanced fabrication experience (CNC machining, welding, precision assembly).
• Knowledge of rapid prototyping methods, lean manufacturing principles, and testing + validation procedures.
• Experience with CAD/PDM/PLM Systems, Product Development Process, and Project Management.
• Proficient in 3D mechanical design, analysis, and drafting tools ( Autodesk Inventor, NX, CATIA, SolidWorks, ANSYS, etc.)

Benefits

Model/Z offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid vacation, medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as pet insurance, sick leave, 10 paid holidays, and bereavement days. This package is designed to provide employees with a range of important benefits that help to support their physical and emotional well-being, while also providing financial protection and peace of mind.

At Model/Z, we believe work environment, culture, and the opportunity to learn and grow are key elements when considering a new job. We are just the right size to provide the resources and support you need without the bureaucracy of a large corporate environment. We foster a family-friendly and supportive workplace, collaborative and employee-focused with an emphasis on quality, integrity, trust, and accountability. We are looking to bring someone on board as soon as possible. We provide a rewarding and challenging environment. We expect a lot, but give a lot in return. Strongly prefer candidates local to Los Angeles as no relocation assistance will be provided. All qualified candidates will be contacted directly.