Mechanical Design Engineer 1
4 days ago
Long Beach
Job Description IPS - Rubbercraft is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to join our organization and support design, development, and testing of elastomeric components and precision mechanical systems. This entry-level role is ideal for engineers passionate about mechanical design, materials science, and advanced manufacturing. The successful candidate will work on custom-engineered solutions for industries requiring high-performance seals and elastomeric components. About IPS: Integrated Polymer Solutions (IPS) is a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced materials and engineered components, specializing in high-value end markets such as aerospace, defense, medical, semiconductors, robotics, energy, and industrial applications. IPS is comprised of 10 highly respected brands, each recognized for their expertise and innovation: AkroFire, ABBA Roller, Icon Aerospace Technology, IRP Medical, MAST Technologies, Northern Engineering Sheffield (NES), Rubbercraft, Swift Textile Metalizing (STM), RMB Products, and SPIRA Manufacturing. Our extensive product portfolio includes elastomeric seals, gaskets, tooling, hoses, ablatives, survivability tiles, coatings and tapes, EMI and thermal shielding, electrically conductive metalized fabrics, and encapsulated O-rings—all designed to meet the most demanding performance requirements in mission-critical applications. About Rubbercraft: Rubbercraft specializes in precision-engineered elastomeric components for aerospace, defense, space, energy, and industrial applications. With over a century of expertise, we design aerodynamic seals, fireproof seals, inflatable canopy seals, flexible rubber connectors, space ablatives, EMI solutions, and elastomeric tooling. As part of IPS, we leverage a combination of advanced materials and engineering innovation to deliver high-performance solutions for demanding environments, ensuring durability, efficiency, and reliability across industries. Essential Duties and Responsibilities As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you play a crucial role in developing and optimizing elastomeric components and sealing solutions for aerospace and defense applications. This position requires collaboration with cross-functional teams, managing multiple design projects, and ensuring that all components meet rigorous industry standards. Your expertise in mechanical design and manufacturing will be instrumental in delivering high-performance aerospace sealing solutions that meet mission-critical requirements. • Mechanical Design & Development, • Design and develop custom elastomeric components, seals, and polymer-based solutions for aerospace and defense applications., • Create 3D CAD models, technical drawings, and engineering documentation using SolidWorks and/or CATIA in 3DX PLM (ENOVIA)., • Design process, test and check fixtures using 3D printing technology., • Conduct FEA analysis – Elastomers and Composite Nonlinear analysis., • Optimize designs for manufacturability, durability, and cost-efficiency, ensuring high-performance solutions for extreme environments., • Documentation & Compliance, • Elaboration of engineering documentation, quality test proposals and reports., • Ensure designs meet FAA, AS9100, ISO 9001, and MIL-SPEC requirements., • Work with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with customers and regulatory standards., • Technical Compliance Matrix development., • Material data development., • Collaboration & Support, • Partner with manufacturing, quality, and lab teams to transition designs from concept to production., • Support Engineering Department Requests and Configuration Control Board committee., • Assist in prototype development, validation testing, and troubleshooting for aerospace and defense applications., • Collaborate with customers, suppliers, and internal teams to refine engineering specifications and project requirements., • Innovation & Continuous Improvement, • Research and collaborate with Lab, integrating new elastomeric materials data, compound formulations, and manufacturing techniques to enhance product performance., • Support lean engineering initiatives to improve design efficiency and production processes., • Stay updated on emerging aerospace sealing technologies and industry best practices. Education and/or Experience • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field., • 2 to 3 years of experience in mechanical design, elastomeric components, or aerospace/defense manufacturing., • Experience in high-precision mechanical design, elastomers, and composite materials is a plus., • Familiarity with aerospace industry standards is advantageous. Skills/Qualifications The Mechanical Design Engineer should demonstrate competence in the following areas: • Technical Skills, • Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks and/or CATIA)., • Strong understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) and ASME Y14.5 standards., • Familiarity with manufacturing processes, including 3D printing, rubber molding, polymer extrusion, CNC machining, and coatings applications., • Soft Skills, • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills., • Effective interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills to drive tasks to completion., • Detail-oriented with time management skills to handle multiple projects., • Preferred (Not Required):, • Knowledge of FAA, AS9100, MIL-SPEC, and ITAR regulations, • FEA (Finite Element Analysis) using Abaqus, experience with stress analysis, and materials science (elastomers, polymers, composites, and metals)., • Experience working with aerospace OEMs, defense contractors, or high-performance industrial manufacturers., • Background in seal design, EMI shielding, or high-temperature polymer applications., • 3DX or any PLM system experience is a plus. Benefits: At Rubbercraft, we recognize how important your career and benefits are to you and your family. We offer a full suite of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability coverage, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, basic and supplemental life insurance, employee assistance plan, retirement savings and matching, and other developmental opportunities. We are committed to supporting the way you live and work. Rubbercraft is an Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled - Affirmative Action Employer. This position requires using information subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. 'Green Card Holder'), Political Asylee, or Refugee. (Actual placement within the salary range is dependent on multiple factors, including but not limited to skills, education, experience and location)