# Product Design Engineer - Camera

**Company:** [Skydio](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/skydio)
**Location:** Unspecified
**Role:** Hardware Engineering
**Skills:** 3D Cad, CATIA, Geometric Dimensioning And Tolerancing, Tolerance Analysis, 3D Printing, Cnc Machining, Finite Element Analysis, Mechanical Assembly, Injection Molding, Laboratory Testing, Failure Analysis, Thermal Testing, Optical Testing, Robotics, Faa Part 107
**Posted:** 2026-08-17

> Designs, prototypes, tests, and refines mechanical systems for camera modules used in autonomous drones. The role requires advanced mechanical-engineering knowledge, CAD and manufacturing expertise, laboratory testing skills, and cross-functional collaboration.

## Job Description

## Responsibilities
- Create 3D CAD models and production-ready 2D drawings for camera parts, assemblies, test equipment, and related mechanical systems.
- Support mechanical design and integration of camera modules, lenses, image sensors, actuators, thermal solutions, electronics, flex circuits, seals, and structural components.
- Design and build prototypes to evaluate concepts, integration approaches, and mechanical architectures.
- Design test jigs, fixtures, and measurement setups for camera development, characterization, assembly, and validation.
- Perform tolerance analyses for fit, alignment, optical positioning, assembly variation, and mechanical performance.
- Prototype components and assemblies using 3D printing, CNC machining, and hands-on assembly.
- Support finite element analysis, including model preparation, boundary-condition definition, physical-test correlation, and result interpretation.
- Plan and conduct laboratory testing, analyze results, and communicate findings in engineering reports.
- Characterize camera components and assemblies for dimensions, torque, force, stiffness, thermal performance, and resistance to heat, water, and other environmental conditions.
- Investigate mechanical and electromechanical failures, identify root causes, and help develop and validate corrective actions.
- Support reliability and optical testing, including test setup development, sample preparation, execution, data collection, and failure analysis.
- Work with manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and external vendors on fabrication, inspection, assembly, and design improvements.
- Contribute across the product-development cycle from concepts and prototypes through design validation, pre-production, and mass-production support.

## Requirements
- Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent practical experience.
- Experience applying mechanical-engineering fundamentals and analytical problem-solving to physical products or electromechanical systems.
- Proficiency in 3D CAD and creation of clear mechanical part and assembly drawings; CATIA experience is strongly preferred.
- Working knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, tolerance analysis, materials, and common manufacturing processes.
- Experience with rapid prototyping, including 3D printing, CNC machining, and hands-on mechanical assembly.
- Familiarity with designing parts for injection molding, CNC machining, metal forming, or casting.
- Practical laboratory skills and confidence using mechanical measurement and test equipment.
- Ability to document test methods, analyze data, and communicate conclusions clearly.
- Detail-oriented and methodical approach to debugging, characterization, and failure analysis.
- Ability to collaborate across mechanical, optical, electrical, reliability, manufacturing, and supplier teams.
- Curiosity, initiative, and willingness to learn in a fast-paced product-development environment.
- Strong interest in cameras, precision mechanisms, robotics, drones, or imaging systems.

## Benefits
- Competitive base salary, stock options, and comprehensive benefits for regular, full-time employees.
- Paid vacation, sick leave, holiday pay, and 401(k) savings plan.
- Relocation assistance may be available for eligible roles.
- FAA Part 107 certification is strongly encouraged within the first 60 days and required for certain positions.

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