Mechanical Design Engineer IV, Vehicle Architect

Scope of Position 

The Vehicle Systems Architect will play a pivotal role in the development of our next-generation electric powersports vehicles. This position is responsible for full vehicle architecture and complex vehicle systems integration, as well as some component-specific designs, ensuring Zero Motorcycles creates best-in-class vehicles. Key to this role is effectively communicating engineering requirements and solutions across the company and with strategic partners, and ensuring performance, cost, safety and quality standards are met. This position will collaborate closely with a team of engineers, designers, partners and manufacturing experts to deliver innovative and sustainable products. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Vehicle architecture level collaboration with partners 

• Identify and document product requirements, structural, performance, cost, weight 

• Guide projects to meet design, performance, cost, regulatory and other requirements  

• CAD system conversion and maintenance of vehicle level CAD assembly from multiple sources 

• Generates and communicates engineering feedback to design partners 

• Oversee simulations and testing to optimize vehicle performance, efficiency, and reliability. 

• Identify and manage critical path of vehicle design and integration 

• Oversee the integration of various vehicle components and subsystems, ensuring seamless functionality and performance 

• Analyze and apply vehicle load and strain data acquisition information. 

• Cross functional problem solving 

• Sets agenda for and leads technical project meetings both internally and with partners 

• Creates and maintains critical engineering project documents 

• Schedules and leads design reviews at strategic points of a product’s development 

• Develops in-house mechanical design excellence within the functional group 

• Provides input to project timelines and forecasting 

• Accountable for holding due dates, understands inter-dependencies between engineering development timelines and downstream stakeholders 

• Maintains parts’ database through generation of assigned part numbers and descriptions 

• Generates and tracks to implementation engineering Change Records (CRs) 

• Generates and maintains Bills of Materials (BOMs) 

• Create detailed technical documentation, including system specifications, design drawings, CAD assemblies, presentations and simulation / test reports. 

• Prepares documents to support regulatory submissions, manufacturing and sales 

• Reviews and approves assembly and service procedures

• Bachelor of Science degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering

• Minimum of 8 years of relevant development engineering experience

• CAD (preferably SolidWorks); working with large assemblies, models and drawings, advanced surfacing experience a plus

• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, including statics, dynamics, and materials science.

• Excellent understanding of manufacturing processes; forging, casting, machining, injection molding, weldments, sheet metal fabrication, painting and other surface treatments

• Structural, dynamic, and thermal analysis and simulation techniques

• Knowledge of electromechanical device types and applications

• GD&T and tolerance stack analysis

• Experience with Bills of Materials, Engineering Change Orders, Document Support, Excel

• Demonstrated ability to lead groups through technical development

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.

Preferred Experience

• Motorcycle, automotive or powersports vehicle industry

• Knowledge of electric powertrain systems and battery technology

• Styled aesthetic design

• Hose and wire routing

• Motorcycle or automotive regulatory experience

• Knowledge of vehicle testing and validation procedures.

• Development and integration of innovative technical concepts, including patentable innovations

Skills and Attributes

• Positive and collaborative attitude

• Strong sense of ownership

• Excellent follow-through and documentation

• Multi-tasking ability; scheduling, time and project management skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Organized, superior attention to detail

• Diligent, reliable and tenacious

• Hands-on mechanical aptitude

Other Requirements

• Licensed motorcycle rider preferred

• Experienced powersports vehicle rider preferred

• Domestic or international travel a few times per year

If you are a passionate and experienced Vehicle Systems Architect who is excited to contribute to the future of electric powersports, we encourage you to apply.