Entry level mechanical engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Position Description

The Mechanical Engineer I is responsible for the mechanical design and development of distribution transformers in accordance with IEEE, CSA, and customer specifications. This role requires a solid foundation in mechanical engineering principles related to structural and thermal requirements unique to transformer applications. Responsibilities include preparing, validating, and reviewing detailed designs, calculations, and documentation that comply with applicable standards and manufacturing constraints.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

Design and Development

• Design, develop, and review mechanical specifications for distribution transformers, ensuring compliance with customer requirements.

• Develop mechanical designs for transformer components including tanks, core-coil frame assemblies, cooling systems, and lifting/handling features.

• Verify bushing locations, terminal clearances, and overall component and accessory layouts for correct fit and functionality.

• Utilize engineering software (AutoCAD, SolidEdge, or proprietary transformer design tools) for mechanical design, modeling, and analysis.

• Prepare and review manufacturing drawings, bills of materials, and 3D CAD models.

• Perform design tasks supporting product development and improvement initiatives to maintain competitiveness of company products.

Standards and Compliance

• Interpret and apply applicable industry standards (IEEE, ASTM, CSA) to ensure compliance with structural, thermal, and safety requirements.

• Participate in design reviews and contribute to root-cause analysis of production or design issues.

• Support standardization of transformer designs, engineering tools, templates, and best practices.

• Stay current with evolving industry standards and participate in relevant technical events as required.

• Support certification and testing activities, including pressure/rupture/vacuum testing; tamper-proof/enclosure integrity testing; dielectric, short-circuit, and arc-fault testing; and thermal performance validation.

Collaboration and Coordination

• Collaborate with manufacturing, test, and quality teams to resolve non-conformances, implement engineering changes, and verify design improvements.

• Provide technical support to manufacturing and assembly teams, including weld specifications, component/material selection, and fit-up requirements to optimize performance, efficiency, and cost.

• Participate in process-improvement initiatives to enhance departmental efficiency and overall output quality.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

Experience

• 5+ years of experience in design engineering of electrical distribution equipment, preferably within a transformer manufacturing environment.

Skills and Competencies

• Proficiency with engineering design and analysis tools (CAD, FEA, simulation software) as well as productivity and ERP systems.

• Strong knowledge of distribution transformer design, associated manufacturing processes, and applicable industry standards (ANSI, ASTM, IEEE, CSA).

• Solid understanding of transformer operating principles, sheet-metal fabrication, tank design, and thermal cooling systems.

• Basic understanding of electrical wiring and related systems (a plus).

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment; basic project-management capability.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Ability to work under supervision and respond effectively to guidance.