Senior Engineer

The Senior Engineer leads the design and development of new commercial products, as well as the custom manufacturing equipment required to produce them. This role oversees daily engineering and manufacturing activities, with responsibility for identifying complex operational challenges and implementing effective technical solutions. Working closely with the Principal Investigator, the Senior Engineer will identify and evaluate external suppliers, manage outsourced work, review related contracts, and provide technical guidance and direction to participating students. The primary work location for this position is expected to be in Asheville, NC, with the specific site currently being finalized. The role offers a hybrid work arrangement with some work-from-home flexibility. Regular travel to Cullowhee is required, typically once per week, along with periodic travel within North Carolina and occasional out-of-state travel to support grant objectives. This position is grant-funded and time-limited, with an anticipated end date of January 31, 2028. It is classified as a temporary salaried position without full benefits and offers an expected annual compensation of $124,000. Job Responsibilities Engineering Design and Technical Development (50%): Design and develop engineered products and the manufacturing systems required to produce them. This includes creating complex CAD models, developing commercial products and manufacturing equipment, building prototypes, testing product performance, conducting capability studies, resolving complex technical problems, and documenting all work. • Product Design and Manufacturing Process Leadership (35%): Provide day-to-day technical leadership for the project, coordinating the activities of engineers, technicians, and skilled trades. Oversee product design, manufacturing processes, equipment, and installation activities. Participate in offsite project-related activities, including customer meetings, vendor visits, and strategic planning sessions. Develop and implement a document control system aligned with common engineering standards, as well as a quality management system appropriate for a medical device. • Documentation, Reporting, and Professional Communication (10%): Prepare technical documentation and progress reports, coordinate closely with the Principal Investigator, and maintain professional communication with internal and external stakeholders. Collaborate with the Program Manager to provide information required for grant reporting. • Student Mentoring and Technical Guidance (5%): Provide direction, instruction, and feedback to students participating in the project under the guidance of the Principal Investigator. Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Required for this Position Advanced knowledge of mechanical design, manufacturing processes, and design for manufacturability, including CNC machining and EDM. Skill in leading and coordinating engineers, technicians, and skilled trades in complex design, testing, and fabrication activities. Ability to diagnose complex operating, installation, and production problems and implement effective technical solutions. Skill in evaluating vendors and suppliers, managing outsourced work, and reviewing technical and contractual deliverables. Ability to communicate professionally with project leadership, external partners, and students while providing clear technical guidance.

Job Types:

Full-time, Temporary, Contract Pay:

$124,000.00 per year

Work Location:

Hybrid remote in Asheville, NC 28804