Mechanical product designer/Eengineer

Upwork Job Post — Mechanical Product Designer / Engineer Title Mechanical Product Designer Needed for New Consumer Product + Functional Prototype Description We are developing a new mechanical consumer cleaning product and are looking for an experienced mechanical engineer/product designer to help take the concept from idea to a functional physical prototype. This is NOT simply a 3D modeling/rendering project. We already have the product concept and preliminary visualizations. The primary challenge is designing the mechanical movement and actuation system that makes the product work reliably. We want an engineer who will challenge our assumptions and help us find the simplest, most reliable and manufacturable solution rather than simply converting our existing concept into CAD. Phase 1 Scope We need help with: * Mechanical concept development * Mechanism/kinematic design * CAD development * Material recommendations * Design for 3D printing/prototyping * Creation of a functional prototype * Testing and refinement of the mechanism * Early consideration of injection molding and mass manufacturing The initial goal is proof of function, not a beautiful finished product. If Phase 1 proves the concept, we intend to continue into industrial design, engineering refinement, DFM, prototyping and eventual manufacturing. Ideal Experience We’re particularly interested in candidates with experience in: * Mechanical engineering * Consumer product development * Mechanisms and linkages * Handles, clamps, jaws or actuated assemblies * SolidWorks, Fusion 360 or equivalent * 3D printing and rapid prototyping * Injection-molded plastics * Silicone/TPE components * Design for Manufacturing (DFM) * Taking products from concept through production Experience actually building and testing physical prototypes is highly preferred. Confidentiality & IP This is an original product concept. Detailed information, drawings and concept images will be shared with selected candidates after we establish fit and appropriate confidentiality/IP protections. All designs, CAD files, engineering work, improvements and other intellectual property created under the engagement must be assigned to us as part of the project. When Applying Please don’t send us a generic proposal. Instead, please answer these four questions: 1. Tell us about one mechanical consumer product you’ve designed that involved moving parts or a mechanism. What did you personally design? 2. Have you designed products involving linkages, cams, pivots, clamps, jaws, sliding mechanisms or similar mechanical movement? Please give an example. 3. How do you normally approach an early-stage product when the inventor knows what the product needs to accomplish but the final mechanism hasn’t been determined? 4. Can you personally create or coordinate a physical 3D-printed prototype after the initial CAD is complete? Please include examples, photos, CAD screenshots or portfolio pieces showing functional mechanical products, not only product renderings. Initial Engagement We expect Phase 1 to be approximately $750–$1,250 fixed price, depending on experience and proposed approach. We are open to a larger engagement after the initial mechanism has been proven. We’re looking for an engineer who wants to help solve the problem—not simply draw our idea.