Catania Product Development is seeking an Engineering Specialist – Electro-Mechanical Build & Integration to support the hands-on execution of first-of-kind product development efforts. This role is intended for someone who is equally comfortable working with both mechanical and electrical aspects of hardware and can help turn early product designs into functioning prototypes and integrated assemblies.
This position supports a fast-moving environment where formal work instructions may not exist and the 3D model, drawings, and engineering intent are often the primary inputs. The right candidate can think through assembly and integration challenges, work across mechanical and electrical build tasks with confidence, and communicate issues clearly when additional engineering input is needed.
This role is best suited for individuals who prefer autonomy and are comfortable being accountable for their outcomes.
This role requires US Citizenship.
Core Responsibilities
Electro-Mechanical Prototype Build
Build first-of-kind electro-mechanical products and subassemblies directly from 3D CAD models, drawings, and engineering guidanceDetermine practical assembly and integration approaches when formal work instructions or established processes do not existPerform hands-on mechanical assembly, alignment, fastening, packaging, and fit-up activitiesPerform hands-on electrical build work including soldering, wiring, connector installation, cable routing, harness support, and basic electronic assemblyMove fluidly between mechanical and electrical build tasks as product needs require
Integration & Product Realization
Integrate mechanical and electrical elements into cohesive working assemblies and prototypesIdentify and work through issues involving fit, access, sequence, interfaces, wiring paths, packaging constraints, and assembly practicalitySupport the physical realization of designs where build sequence, integration approach, and hardware interaction are not always obvious from the model aloneHelp ensure assemblies are built in a way that supports function, serviceability, and test readiness
Troubleshooting & Issue Resolution
Troubleshoot issues encountered during build, integration, checkout, and test support activitiesUse sound judgment to try practical solutions independently before escalatingCommunicate issues, blockers, and risks early and clearly, including what was attempted and where support is neededHelp identify mismatches between design intent and physical implementation and provide useful feedback to engineers
Test & Requirements Support
Support engineers in testing products against requirementsAssist with hardware setup, configuration changes, instrumentation support, and hands-on test execution as neededObserve product behavior during checkout and test activities and communicate issues that may affect performance or requirements complianceHelp improve prototype readiness by identifying build, integration, and test support needs early
Team Contribution & Accountability
Work closely with engineers and other team members to keep product execution movingMaintain strong attention to detail, organization, and follow-through across both mechanical and electrical tasksSupport multiple active efforts as priorities shiftContribute positively in a fast-paced, hands-on development environment where ambiguity is common
Required Qualifications
Electro-Mechanical Build Capability
Experience using or interpreting SolidWorks models with or without engineering drawingsDemonstrated experience building directly from 3D CAD models (SolidWorks)Strong hands-on experience with soldering, wiring, connector work, cable routing, and electronic assembly·Strong hands-on experience with mechanical assembly, integration, fit-up, and prototype hardware buildsExperience supporting electro-mechanical assemblies and integrated hardware
Prototype & Integration Experience
Experience with prototype, first article, or first-of-kind hardware buildsAbility to determine practical build and integration paths when formal work instructions do not existAbility to troubleshoot mechanical and electrical integration issues in real timeAbility to support products through assembly, integration, checkout, and test supportPractical understanding of how mechanical and electrical elements interact in real hardware builds
Work Style & Communication
Mechanically and electrically aware, with strong practical judgmentResourceful and comfortable working through ambiguityStrong attention to detail and organizational skillsCommunicates issues clearly and promptly without letting problems stall progressAble to make thoughtful attempts independently before escalating for engineering supportDependable, self-directed, and comfortable in a fast-paced environment
Preferred Qualifications
Experience supporting engineers during prototype checkout, verification, or test activitiesExperience with cable management, connectorized systems, enclosure packaging, or integrated hardware layoutsExperience with shop tools, fixtures, jigs, or prototype support equipmentExperience in product development, aerospace, aviation, defense, robotics, or other technically demanding hardware environmentsFamiliarity with requirement-driven testing or structured development processesWork Environment & Expectations
Catania operates on trust, autonomy, and accountability. Team members and contractors alike are expected to communicate clearly, work proactively, and help move products from design intent to working hardware.
This role supports first-of-kind electro-mechanical product execution, where ambiguity is normal and the best build path is not always obvious at the start. Success in this role depends on practical judgment, persistence, clear communication, and the ability to work confidently across both mechanical and electrical aspects of a product without waiting for perfect instructions.
On-site support may be needed for builds, integration, troubleshooting, and testing activities.
Additional Information
This role may be structured as either a full-time employee (W-2) position or an independent contractor (1099) to hire, depending on candidate fit and business needs.Compensation structure, scope, and engagement terms will be defined in the offer or contract agreement, as applicable.This description outlines general responsibilities and does not constitute a contract of employment or guarantee of ongoing employment or engagement.Responsibilities may evolve based on project needs.Position requires US CitizenshipRelocation not provided.\nCompany DescriptionCatania Product Development is an innovative product design and engineering services company operating in a fast-paced, high-tech, and creative environment. We offer a family-friendly atmosphere, flexible work structure, and the opportunity to take real ownership of challenging projects from concept through build, integration, and test. Our culture is built on trust, autonomy, reliability, and shared success, making it a strong fit for people who want meaningful responsibility and the ability to directly influence outcomes. Our work is especially rewarding for those who value accountability, enjoy solving hard problems, and find fulfillment in seeing products come to life from start to finish. Many of our efforts support start-ups and small-to-medium businesses, giving team members the chance to help turn ideas into real, working products across a diverse range of applications.
Company DescriptionCatania Product Development is an innovative product design and engineering services company operating in a fast-paced, high-tech, and creative environment. We offer a family-friendly atmosphere, flexible work structure, and the opportunity to take real ownership of challenging projects from concept through build, integration, and test. Our culture is built on trust, autonomy, reliability, and shared success, making it a strong fit for people who want meaningful responsibility and the ability to directly influence outcomes. Our work is especially rewarding for those who value accountability, enjoy solving hard problems, and find fulfillment in seeing products come to life from start to finish. Many of our efforts support start-ups and small-to-medium businesses, giving team members the chance to help turn ideas into real, working products across a diverse range of applications. Read Less