Mechanical Engineer + CAD/Prototyping — Field Soil-Sampling Mechanism (Concept → Working Prototype)

We're a product design and manufacturing firm developing a field-deployable soil-sampling mechanism for an ag-tech client. We need a mechanical engineer (with CAD/design support, whether that's you or a paired resource) to take this from concept through a working benchtop prototype. The device mounts to the rear of an ATV/UTV and, as it drives, collects and filters a soil sample at a set interval — engaging the ground, pulling a sample across a target depth band, rejecting rocks and roots, and breaking up clods. Think a small, ground-engaging mechanical implement, drawing on familiar ag equipment (aerator-style coring vs. seed-drill/coulter-style furrowing are the two candidate approaches). This is not a rendering exercise. The deliverable has to physically work. We care about mechanisms that can actually be built and function when assembled — not CAD that looks good but was never validated. Scope (two phases): Phase 1 — Concept (~4 weeks): Generate 3–5 distinct mechanical concepts across both approaches, with feasibility, trade-offs, and rough study models. We down-select one together. Phase 2 — Functional Prototype (~6–8 weeks): Develop the chosen concept into a working benchtop prototype (3D-printed and/or machined parts) that demonstrates the mechanism. Real build-and-test iteration. We can support fabrication (in-house and via overseas 3D printing/machining), so your files must be genuinely build-ready — proper tolerances, fits, and DFM.