DescriptionThe Mechanical Engineer, Ball Screw Design supports the design, development, testing, and continuous improvement of precision ball screw assemblies used in aerospace, defense, medical, and industrial applications. Working under the guidance of senior engineering staff, this position performs mechanical design, engineering analysis, prototype development, testing, and manufacturing support to deliver high-performance motion control products.
Major Responsibilities:
Design ball screw components including screw shafts, nuts, return systems, recirculation mechanisms, and drive interfaces.
Create and maintain detailed CAD models, drawings, and engineering documentation.
Assist in defining preload, geometry, lubrication, and performance requirements.
Perform engineering calculations related to load capacity, fatigue life, stiffness, backlash, friction, torque, and thermal performance.
Support finite element analysis and validation activities.
Evaluate component performance through analytical modeling and engineering calculations.
Support laboratory testing, endurance testing, load testing, efficiency evaluations, and prototype validation.
Analyze test results and recommend design improvements.
Assist with failure investigations and root cause analysis.
Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering to support machining, grinding, assembly, and inspection activities.
Review manufacturability and assist with design improvements.
Support Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) and design revisions.
Prepare engineering reports, calculations, specifications, and design documentation.
Participate in design reviews and technical meetings.
Maintain engineering records in accordance with company procedures.
RequirementsMinimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
2–5 years of mechanical engineering experience (or equivalent internship/co-op experience).
Experience with 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks.
Understanding of mechanical design principles, machine elements, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Minimum Competencies:
- Knowledge of ball screw architecture, geometry optimization, preload techniques, and mechanical efficiency factors.
- Expertise in failure modes, reliability engineering, and life prediction specific to rolling-element mechanisms.
- Ability to deliver complex technical material clearly.
- Strong capability in risk management, trade studies, and data-driven decision making.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with electromechanical actuator systems.
- Background in high-precision manufacturing or grinding/thread-rolling process development.
- Experience with DO-160, MIL-STD environmental qualification, or similar aerospace standards.
- Six Sigma, DFSS, or advanced reliability engineering certification.
Operational Details / Work Environment:
- Primarily office-based engineering role with periodic hands-on testing or lab work.
- Occasional travel to customers, suppliers, or test facilities.
- PPE may be required in some manufacturing or laboratory spaces.
Work Authorization / Security Clearance:
This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required. “US Person” includes US Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
You should be proficient in:
